"Learning how the passion and dedication of so many people go into the medicines we use every day made me realize how much more carefully I want to approach my work with patients."
These words were spoken by a clinical research coordinator (CRC) at a recent dialogue session held at Daiichi Sankyo’s Pharmaceutical Technology Development Center and capture the essence of what Patient Centricity means at our company.
Ueno experiencing work with a mock isolator used in aseptic environments
Bridging the Gap
The Patient Centricity Working Team (PCWT) led by Ms. Shizuko Ueno, Daiichi Sankyo’s first female director appointed from within the company as well as a passionate advocate for patient-centered value creation, organized this unique opportunity.
At the event, CRCs and pharmacists from leading medical institutions gathered to engage directly with members of our Technology Unit, which integrates biologics, pharmaceutical technology, and supply chain functions to deliver on our concept of “seamless development-to-commercialization”.
What the participants witnessed was more than just a manufacturing process. They saw the commitment and enthusiasm of employees working tirelessly to ensure product quality and a stable supply of medicines.
Through hands-on experiences with equipment used in real production lines, participants gained a deeper appreciation for the complexity and care involved in every step.
"I never realized how many steps and how much human effort go into making medicines. Each one is directly connected to patient safety."
The Power of Dialogue to “Rethink the Ordinary”
Patient Centricity at Daiichi Sankyo is not simply about listening to patients’ voices. It’s about continually asking, “What do patients and those who care for them truly need?” and reflecting this perspective in every aspect of our business.
During the session, Technology Unit members answered questions from CRCs and pharmacists, who shared challenges and needs from the healthcare frontlines. Topics ranged from drug stability during preparation to packaging innovations and usability in clinical settings. These exchanges fostered mutual understanding and empathy—something that cannot be achieved through factory tours alone.
"Knowing the background of medicine as a pharmacist makes my explanations to patients more convincing. Learning about the passion of those in manufacturing naturally strengthens my own sense of responsibility."
Leadership and Global Collaboration
Ms. Ueno’s leadership has been instrumental in driving Patient Centricity forward at Daiichi Sankyo, both in Japan and globally. In addition to her roles as Head of the Japan Business Unit, Head of Medical Affairs, and her Special Assignment on Patient Centricity, she actively engages with patient groups, healthcare professionals, and other external stakeholders.
Collaborating with Patient Advocacy Teams in the US and Europe, and by participating in international conferences such as ASCO and ESMO, Ms. Ueno brings a global perspective to our efforts.
PCWT believes in the power of co-creation, working hand-in-hand with stakeholders inside and outside the company to advance patient-centered value.
Memorable Moments of Pride and Empathy
The meaningful exchange of dialogue left a lasting impression on employees as well. Many expressed pride in hearing that their products are valued for their usability in real-world settings and felt a closer connection to patients after hearing directly from CRCs.
In post-event surveys, about 80% of employees said they hope such opportunities will continue, highlighting the positive impact on awareness and behavior.
Learning from the Healthcare “Frontlines”
Visits by Technology Unit members to healthcare facilities have also provided invaluable insights. Pharmacists and healthcare professionals can share real-world challenges, such as the time required to dissolve freeze-dried drugs, the need to adjust dosing schedules, and efforts to minimize patient waiting times.
Observing the compactness of dispensaries, strict temperature controls, and safety measures against exposure to anticancer drugs, employees gain a new perspective on the realities of clinical practice.
These experiences have inspired comments such as, “The points researchers focus on and those that matter to pharmacists can be quite different,” and “Knowing the real needs of healthcare settings motivates us to develop better formulations.”
Such firsthand learning further fuels our drive to develop medicines from the perspective of patients and healthcare professionals.
Ueno-san standing alongside a hand-drawn illustration of her
Patients are Always at the Center of Our Hearts
A hand-drawn illustration by a PCWT member symbolizing the team’s activities carries the message: “Always in the center of my heart.” Through ongoing dialogue and mutual visits, the PCWT is helping to bridge the distance between pharmaceutical companies and patients.
By sharing the stories and intentions behind what may seem “ordinary,” we are taking real steps toward applying a Patient Centric mindset to everything we do at Daiichi Sankyo.
More Activities of Patient Centricity