Business Models and ecosystems for Patient Support Programs: a comparison of current experiences in Italy

Identifying the correct business model and joining an ecosystem can bring several advantages for both the companies and the society likewise. This research is meant to provide in-depth information and insights on the main challenges that are currently affecting the Italian PSP market, and how an ecosystem approach based on a service platform business model could help in addressing said issues. In this dissertation two case studies, the externalized and internalized business model for patient support programs, have been conducted and confronted with each other from a value creation and value capture point of view by outlining the respective design and development process of a PSP. This enable us to highlight the root causes of the current market inefficiencies represented by the weak intercompany relationships, as well as how said weakness impacted the overall value proposition delivered to patient and healthcare professionals alike. However, the regulatory framework represents another major contributor for the current situation, suggesting that significant changes are required in this field as well.