Discussion

Abstract

The general discussion began with an observation that the patients’ first acquaintance with a pharmaceutical company and its products is through package inserts. Because physicians often have inadequate time or interest to help patients understand what is written on these inserts or to teach the patients how to use drugs properly, it was suggested that the pharmaceutical companies work with the media to ensure that the patients are informed and able to ask their physicians the right questions. This communication strategy also enables the patients to assume greater responsibility for their decisions.