Strengthening Patient Perspectives in Multiple Myeloma Decision-making:
A Multi-stakeholder Analysis of Latin American Healthcare Systems

The Americas Health Foundation conducted a virtual meeting with eight experts in hematology or patient advocacy to explore how patient voices can better shape multiple myeloma treatment decisions in Latin America.

The study highlights the current gaps in patient engagement across different Latin American countries, where some healthcare systems actively involve patients while others lack structured input channels.

It examines various challenges, including limited patient advocacy and uneven healthcare access between public and private healthcare systems. To address these issues, the paper suggests solutions like involving patient advocacy groups in decision-making, creating standards for patient involvement, and using standardized methods to incorporate patient insights. The paper emphasizes that considering patient perspectives is crucial for developing treatment strategies that balance effectiveness with quality of life. Most importantly, it offers practical solutions to improve patient participation, such as creating formal advisory boards and strengthening advocacy groups, all aimed at building a more inclusive and patient-focused healthcare system for those affected by multiple myeloma in Latin America.

The resulting manuscript, “Strengthening Patient Perspectives in Multiple Myeloma Decision-making: A Multi-stakeholder Analysis of Latin American Healthcare Systems,” will be submitted to the Journal of Health Resources and Policy.