2026 Industry Research Report
The DTP Breakthrough: A Deep Dive on Pharma’s Direct-to-Patient Next Generation
PHIL surveyed 74 U.S. life sciences leaders in October 2026 to uncover where direct-to-patient stands now and is headed next.
Download Report →Direct-to-Patient Has Transformed into an Established Access Infrastructure with Significant Strategic Priority. Are You Prepared for What Comes Next?
Direct-to-patient (DTP) has become a core commercial infrastructure. PHIL’s October 2026 survey of 74 U.S. life sciences leaders highlights direct-to-patient's growing impact, strategic opportunities, and key investments for 2027.
Key findings:
Building programs centered around the patient experience
Patient experience, with affordability at the center, is the leading driver of DTP success. Leaders are expanding into new areas and opportunities to deliver more personalized patient experiences.
Future-proofing programs with flexible access partners
Leaders are investing in external partners to co-create the next generation of DTP, with the flexibility to adapt as patient needs and regulations change.
Evolving into a core commercial strategy
As DTP becomes mission critical, established programs show where the industry is headed: expanded infrastructure that operates as a core commercial function.
“Direct-to-patient is becoming core patient access infrastructure, not just another channel. And the data makes clear that the future isn’t cash versus coverage. It’s giving life sciences brands the flexibility to use both, and getting each patient onto the pathway that gives them the best access to therapy.”
Accelerate DTP Success
Build The DTP Program that Lasts
PHIL is the direct-to-patient solution that combines an end-to-end platform with the flexibility to deliver hybrid access pathways and custom patient experiences.
Book Demo →FAQs on the Research
How was the survey collected?
PHIL surveyed 74 U.S. life sciences professionals in October 2026. An independent third-party research firm collected the sample, and responses were 100% anonymous. 65% of respondents work in pharmaceuticals and 35% in biotechnology. By job function, 43% are in leadership and 23% in patient access, with the rest in commercial, innovation, marketing and sales, and market access. The research dives into manufacturers with established and emerging programs, and the key trends shaping the next phase of direct-to-patient.
What does the research cover?
The report examines how direct-to-patient has become established access infrastructure, from strategic priority and program models to AI and specialty expansion. The research looks ahead at the investments, barriers, and partner criteria set to define the coming year.
Who is the research relevant for?
Pharmaceutical and biotechnology professionals that oversee access and commercial strategy, including leadership, patient access, commercial, brand, and innovation teams.
How do I access the research?
Access the research by filling out the form on this page.
