Pharmaceutical speakers bureaus have long been a key component of the pharmaceutical industry, providing education and information to healthcare professionals and patients about new medications, disease management, and treatment options. As we head through 2023, this field is rapidly evolving, with new technologies, regulatory requirements, and engagement strategies shaping the landscape. Here are some of the top trends to watch for in pharmaceutical speakers bureaus in 2023:

1. Virtual and hybrid events: The COVID-19 pandemic dramatically accelerated the adoption of virtual and hybrid events¹, and this trend is likely to continue into 2023 and beyond. Pharmaceutical companies are increasingly turning to virtual and hybrid formats to deliver educational programs, which can help to improve accessibility and reduce costs while still providing high-quality education and engagement.
2. Personalization and customization: Personalization and customization are becoming increasingly important in pharmaceutical speakers bureaus, as companies seek to tailor their education and resources to the specific needs and preferences of their audiences. This may involve using data analytics to better understand audience demographics and preferences, or using interactive tools and platforms to allow for greater customization of educational materials.
3. Emerging technologies: Emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, and virtual and augmented reality are rapidly transforming the pharmaceutical industry², and speakers bureaus are no exception. These technologies can help to enhance engagement, improve knowledge retention, and provide more immersive and interactive educational experiences.
4. Patient-centric approaches: Pharmaceutical companies are increasingly recognizing the importance of a patient-centric approach to healthcare, and this is reflected in speakers bureaus as well. Programs are increasingly being developed with a focus on patient needs and perspectives³, and may involve input from patient advocacy groups or other stakeholders.
5. Regulatory compliance: Regulatory compliance is an ongoing concern for pharmaceutical companies, and their extensive speakers bureau operations. In 2023, we can expect to see continued emphasis on compliance with regulatory requirements, such as the Sunshine Act⁴, which requires companies to report payments and transfers of value to healthcare professionals.
6. Social media and digital marketing: Social media and digital marketing are continue to be leveraged by the pharmaceutical industry. Companies are leveraging social media and other digital channels to promote their educational programs, engage with audiences, and provide ongoing support and resources.
7. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI): As we will discuss in an upcoming blog post, diversity, equity, and inclusion are critical for creating effective and equitable healthcare systems.⁵ In 2023, we can expect to see continued emphasis on diversity and inclusion in pharmaceutical speakers bureaus, with companies seeking to recruit and promote speakers from underrepresented groups and ensure that their educational programs are accessible and inclusive to all audiences.

In conclusion, the field of pharmaceutical speakers bureaus is rapidly evolving, with new technologies, regulatory requirements, and engagement strategies shaping the landscape. By staying up-to-date on these trends and incorporating them into their programs, pharmaceutical companies can help to improve the effectiveness and accessibility of their educational programs, better meet the needs of diverse audiences, and ultimately improve patient outcomes

1. Singh, J., Steele, K., & Singh, L. Combining the Best of Online and Face-to-Face Learning: Hybrid and Blended Learning Approach for COVID-19, Post Vaccine, & Post-Pandemic World. Journal of Educational Technology Systems, 50(2), 140–171, (2021). https://doi.org/10.1177/00472395211047865.
2. Trenfield, SJ., Awad, A., McCoubrey, LE., et al. Advancing pharmacy and healthcare with virtual digital technologies, Advanced Drug Delivery Reviews, Volume 182, (2022). https://doi.org/10.1016/j.addr.2021.114098
3. Habr, D., Wolf Gianares, B., Schuler, K.W., et al. Patients at the Heart of the Scientific Dialogue: An Industry Perspective. Oncol Ther 11, 15–24 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40487-023-00220-z
4. https://www.cms.gov/OpenPayments. Accessed 3/2/23.
5. Call to Action: Structural Racism as a Fundamental Driver of Health Disparities: A Presidential Advisory From the American Heart Association. Circulation. 2020;142:e454–e468. 10 Nov 2020 https://doi.org/10.1161/CIR.0000000000000936