Report Reveals the Pandemic had Little Positive Impact on Pharma Reputation

A report, launched by Takeda UK, has shown that despite the increase in media attention, COVID-19 has had little positive impact on the perception of pharmaceutical companies. The results of the report were revealed in a Dec. 10, 2020 press release.

The report has been formulated based on online interviews, performed by Ipsos MORI on behalf of Takeda UK, with UK adults aged between 16 and 75 years. In total, 1104 interviews were performed during October 2020.

Key results of the survey include: 17% of respondents indicated their perception of pharmaceutical companies had improved based on the reaction of the industry to COVID-19; 54% of respondents had no change of opinion; and 16% of respondents stated that their impression had worsened. When asked for their opinion on pharmaceutical companies, only 38% responded favorably, and only 48% of respondents stated that they trusted the pharma industry to act in the best interest of society.

“The pharmaceutical industry has faced several reputational challenges over the years. However, perhaps now more than ever, the development of new treatments relies on cross-sector collaborations and public trust and willingness to engage with the sector,” said Jon Neal, managing director, UK and Ireland at Takeda, in the press release. “Therefore, we need to address perceptions of the industry to improve the future of healthcare and ultimately save lives. We hope this report will lead to further discussion about how the industry can convey a stronger purpose to build trust with both patients and other healthcare organizations.”

Ben Page, CEO of Ipsos MORI, added, in the press release, “Our research with Takeda suggests that the public have a higher opinion of roles or organizations that articulate a strong purpose around their role in and value to society. The pharmaceutical industry has historically struggled to clearly articulate what it does and what it stands for. If the sector wants to better connect with the public, it needs to start talking much more openly about its activities and values.”

The full report—Pharma Repurposed?—is available from Takeda UK.

Source: Takeda