Dr Ashish Gawde, ET HealthWorld

In an insightful interview with ETPharma’s Rashmi Mabiyan Kaur, Dr Ashish Gawde, Country Medical Director, Pharmaceuticals, South Asia, Bayer, discusses the significant challenges faced by patients with retinal diseases, including financial burdens, geographical disparities, and lack of awareness. Dr Gawde emphasizes the transformative role of technology, from AI to telemedicine, in revolutionizing the diagnosis and management of eye diseases. Edited excerpts below:

Q. In your experience, what are the biggest challenges patients with retinal diseases face in accessing eye treatments?
The most pressing challenges include the financial and emotional burdens associated with frequent, long-term treatments for conditions such as Diabetic Macular Edema (DME) and Wet Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD). These treatments often need to be sustained over the long term, and this can impact adherence, as patients may prioritize immediate concerns over regular care. Access to timely and effective treatment for retinal diseases remains a significant hurdle for many patients.

Additionally, geographical disparities can affect treatment access. Individuals in rural or underserved areas may need to travel long distances to reach specialized care, which can impact adherence and lead to delays in treatment. Furthermore, a lack of awareness about retinal diseases contributes to late diagnoses, with many individuals seeking treatment only after experiencing considerable vision loss. This highlights the urgent need for comprehensive education on early warning signs and the importance of routine eye examinations.

To address these challenges, Bayer has implemented innovative patient support initiatives like the “Eylea 4 U” program, which ensures timely access to treatment. Collaborations with organizations such as Arogya Finance enhance our capacity to reach patients effectively, ensuring they receive the care necessary for optimal outcomes.

Q. How has EYLEA changed the landscape of treatment for patients with retinal diseases?
The launch of Eylea (aflibercept solution) has marked a pivotal shift in the management of retinal diseases such as wet AMD and DME. Eylea is clinically proven to be superior in efficacy to other treatment options available for retinal diseases. Now, with the new dose regimen, Eylea offers similar efficacy but with fewer injections. The dosing regimen can be personalized based on each patient’s unique needs. This advancement not only enhances patient adherence but also improves overall quality of life, allowing individuals to maintain greater independence in their daily activities.Eylea’s development reflects a broader movement toward personalized treatment strategies. This individualized approach ensures optimal care and minimizes the burden often associated with frequent injections in previous treatment regimens.

Q. How do you envision the role of technology evolving in the treatment and management of eye diseases?
The future of ophthalmology is being redefined by the rapid integration of technology, presenting exciting prospects for the diagnosis and management of eye diseases. Innovations such as artificial intelligence (AI) are revolutionizing diagnostic accuracy, enabling healthcare providers to detect conditions like Diabetic Retinopathy and AMD at earlier stages. This technological advancement ensures that patients receive timely interventions, ultimately preserving vision.

Telemedicine also plays a transformative role, allowing patients in remote areas to access specialized care without the logistical challenges of travel. This increased accessibility is crucial for populations that may otherwise delay necessary treatment.

Q. How is Bayer working towards making eye disease treatment options more accessible in India?
We are committed to enhancing the accessibility of treatments for eye diseases across India, particularly in areas where specialized care is less available. We support patients with initiatives like the Eylea Easy Pay program, offering flexible and affordable payment options to improve access to Eylea (aflibercept solution) in India. Such initiatives provide manageable payment solutions for patients undergoing treatment for retinal diseases, reducing the logistical burdens associated with ongoing care and promoting adherence to treatment regimens.

In addition to financial support programs, Bayer has established outreach initiatives that emphasize the importance of regular eye examinations and early intervention. By engaging with communities, we aim to educate patients on the risks associated with untreated retinal diseases and empower them to seek timely care.

Q. How do you see the future of ophthalmology and treatments in eye care?
The future of ophthalmology is on the brink of remarkable advancements, driven by continuous innovation in treatments and preventive care strategies. There is a palpable sense of optimism surrounding the development of new therapies, including gene therapies, that promise to offer solutions for genetic retinal disorders. As research progresses, breakthroughs are anticipated that will address conditions previously deemed untreatable, significantly enhancing the quality of life for countless patients.

Moreover, the integration of technology — particularly artificial intelligence and telehealth solutions — is expected to improve diagnostic accuracy and broaden access to care. With a growing emphasis on preventive measures, the goal is to reduce the incidence of vision loss caused by conditions like Wet AMD and DME through early detection and timely intervention.

We are committed to playing a pivotal role in this evolving landscape by investing in the research and development of innovative therapies and forging partnerships that advance eye care. Our overarching aspiration is to create a future where preventable blindness is significantly reduced, and every individual has access to the comprehensive eye care they deserve.