Transforming Medical Communications

Innovation vs. Compliance: The Real Way to Make It Work

MedComms Experts — Wed, 01 Apr 2026 11:49:00 +0000

Innovation in Medical Communications often hits the same wall: legal and compliance. But what if that wall is just a misunderstood part of the process? In this episode of Transforming Medical Communications, Wesley Portegies is joined by Guy Atchison and Janna Crabb of MedComms Experts to discuss how high-performing teams are successfully navigating compliance while still pushing boundaries.

We’ll talk about:

How to reframe your legal team as innovation partners
Why education bridges the compliance gap
How modular content and guardrails unlock approval
Why persistence and structured communication are often the difference between rejection and approval.

Cut Through the Noise. Elevate Your Strategy.

Guiding Medical Affairs strategy across Medical Communications, Field Medical, or Medical Affairs Training? Wesley Portegies, host of Transforming Medical Communications, is opening up a few exclusive 30-minute consultancy sessions.

This is a candid, insight-rich opportunity to step back from the day-to-day, pressure-test your approach, and explore fresh solutions to complex MedComms challenges—from scientific engagement to operational alignment.

If you’re shaping the future of Medical Affairs at your organization, this conversation is for you.

Reserve your session → Schedule now https://mce.global/consultancy

Previous guests include: Sissy Easo-Joseph at GSK, Barbara Bish at Janssen, Drew Provan at Queen Mary University, Rebecca McCracken at Agios Pharmaceuticals

Check out our three most downloaded episodes:

Transforming Medical Communications is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

Disclaimer: The opinions and views expressed by the guest are their own and do not represent any past or current employers.

From Event to Strategy: Making Congresses More Impactful

MedComms Experts — Tue, 10 Mar 2026 12:00:00 +0000

Conferences are often treated like isolated deadlines: build the booth, deliver the poster, survive the week, move on. But what if congresses were designed as strategic engines for prelaunch readiness, scientific alignment, and long-term HCP engagement? In this episode of Transforming Medical Communications, Wesley Portegies is joined by Mathura Shanmugasundaram, the Director of Global Medical Communications and Medical Affairs for Neuroscience at Takeda, to discuss what a high-impact congress strategy actually looks like.

We’ll talk about:

How to define the true purpose of a congress before designing booths, symposia, or materials
Why congresses should be treated as part of a scientific communications continuum
How to integrate digital and on-site engagement into one seamless congress experience
How to use social listening and hybrid formats to extend impact beyond the show floor

If you’re shaping the future of Medical Affairs at your organization, this conversation is for you.

Reserve your session → Schedule now https://mce.global/consultancy

How to Build a Therapeutic Area Narrative That Works

MedComms Experts — Tue, 24 Feb 2026 12:00:00 +0000

What is one of the most unprecedented challenges pharma companies face today? Capturing HCP’s attention in under a minute. This challenge has given rise to a critical yet often overlooked strategic tool: the therapeutic area narrative. In this episode of Transforming Medical Communications, Wesley Portegies is joined by the Director of Scientific Communications and Content at Astellas Pharma, Sean Sheffler-Collins, to explore how cohesive therapeutic area narratives can elevate pipeline visibility, foster collaboration, and build trust across stakeholders.

We’ll talk about:

How to develop and implement therapeutic area narratives that unify pipeline communications across multiple assets
The critical role Medical Affairs plays in bridging R&D and clinical development teams to create compelling scientific stories
Why consistent therapeutic area messaging is essential for building trust with HCPs

If you’re shaping the future of Medical Affairs at your organization, this conversation is for you.

Reserve your session → Schedule now https://mce.global/consultancy

From Silos to Strategy: Rethinking Medical-Commercial Alignment

MedComms Experts — Tue, 10 Feb 2026 12:00:00 +0000

For decades, medical and commercial teams in pharma operated in strict silos. But that model is quietly breaking down. In this episode of Transforming Medical Communications, Wesley Portegies is joined by Lynsey Clarke, President, Client Partnerships North America, to discuss how the relationship between medical and commercial functions has evolved and where the real opportunities for alignment now lie.

We’ll talk about:

How to recognize where your organization sits on the medical-commercial continuum
Why omnichannel execution demands coordinated medical and commercial planning
The disease education sweet spot where both functions can collaborate authentically
How intent and compliance now differentiate medical from commercial communication

If you’re shaping the future of Medical Affairs at your organization, this conversation is for you.

Reserve your session → Schedule now https://mce.global/consultancy

Building a Medical Affairs Powerhouse Without a Big Pharma Budget

MedComms Experts — Tue, 27 Jan 2026 12:00:00 +0000

Medical Affairs teams face increasing pressure to deliver greater impact with limited resources. As HCPs increasingly consume information through digital channels and abbreviated formats, traditional Medical Communications approaches often fall short. But what if the solution isn’t doing more, but doing less, more strategically? In this episode of Transforming Medical Communications, Wesley Portegies is joined by Georgea Pasedis, Vice President, Medical Affairs at Tarsus Pharmaceuticals, Inc., to explore building effective Medical Communications functions with limited resources.

We’ll talk about:

How to develop streamlined Medical Communications strategies that prioritize physician needs over traditional approaches
Why segmenting HCP audiences into distinct groups based on their information consumption preferences leads to better engagement
How to leverage field insights and basic data to create effective strategies without large budgets
Why limiting tactical deployment to three to four key initiatives yields better results than trying to do everything at once
How to build stronger cross-functional partnerships between Medical Affairs and commercial teams for greater organizational impact

If you’re shaping the future of Medical Affairs at your organization, this conversation is for you.

Reserve your session → Schedule now https://mce.global/consultancy

How to Humanize Clinical Data: The "Listen First" Strategy

MedComms Experts — Tue, 13 Jan 2026 12:00:00 +0000

How do you turn complex clinical data into actionable insight for HCPs? In this episode of Transforming Medical Communications, Wesley Portegies is joined by Daniela van Eickels, Senior Vice President and Head of Medical Affairs at Kyowa Kirin, to share why great data isn’t enough, how pharma can better listen before it talks, and what it takes to truly humanize Medical Communication.

We’ll talk about:

Why listening precedes talking in Medical Communications
How to contextualize data without diluting it
How Medical Communication should differ between generalists vs. specialists

If you’re shaping the future of Medical Affairs at your organization, this conversation is for you.

Reserve your session → Schedule now https://mce.global/consultancy

Best of 2025: The MedComms Strategies That Moved the Needle

MedComms Experts — Wed, 17 Dec 2025 18:35:00 +0000

In this Best of the Year episode of Transforming Medical Communications, Wesley Portegies brings insights from some of the leading voices in Medical Communications to unpack the most pressing shifts shaping how HCPs consume scientific information today, featuring Simon Priou of bioMérieux, Kimberly Eskridge-Rose of Travere Therapeutics, Janet Davies of UCB, Erin Reineke of Sanofi, Matthew Krzywosz of Astellas Pharma, and Nishal Patel of Pfizer.

We’ll talk about:

How to identify gaps between intended and actual content usage through rigorous metrics analysis
Why less is more in Medical Communications requires targeted audience segmentation
The case for proactive social media engagement in Medical Affairs to combat misinformation
How to define Scientific Communications Platforms (SCPs) accurately as foundational strategic documents
Why Field Medical insights must directly inform content development and how to design omnichannel strategies as dynamic, iterative cycles
How insights-driven content iteration closes the gap between messaging intent and HCP internalization

If you’re shaping the future of Medical Affairs at your organization, this conversation is for you.

Reserve your session → Schedule now https://mce.global/consultancy

Mind the Gap: How to go viral in the HCP Community with Raj Patel

MedComms Experts — Tue, 09 Dec 2025 16:41:00 +0000

Episode Summary

In Medical Communications, we’ve long operated under the assumption that scientific data naturally trickles down from academic thought leaders to the wider HCP community. However, this traditional model is failing to meet the needs of modern healthcare practitioners. In this episode of Transforming Medical Communications, Wesley Portegies is joined by Director of Worldwide Medical Oncology in Medical Communications at Bristol Myers Squibb, Raj Patel, to discuss innovative strategies for reaching community oncologists with scientific data through non-traditional channels and digital platforms.

We’ll talk about:

How to leverage non-peer-reviewed platforms to exponentially increase scientific content reach
Why community HCPs consume scientific content differently from academic physicians
A framework to leverage medical news websites while maintaining compliance
How to optimize the journal selection strategy to increase content accessibility for community physicians
The three-step approach to identify and engage with platforms where community HCPs already consume content

Guest at a Glance

Raj Patel serves as Director of Worldwide Medical Oncology in Medical Communications at Bristol Myers Squibb (BMS), bringing over a decade of experience in scientific communications and publication strategies. As an expert in data dissemination and Medical Communications, he has pioneered innovative approaches to bridging the communication gap between pharma and community healthcare professionals.

Connect with Raj Patel on LinkedIn

Host at a Glance

Wesley Portegies is the Chief Strategy Officer and Founder of MedComms Experts, an agency specializing in effective Medical Communications strategies for pharmaceutical companies. An experienced entrepreneur, Wesley started his first company at 19 and has built multiple successful companies. With over 20 years in the Medical Industry, both on the agency and industry side, he is driven by a passion for Medical Communications.

Connect with Wesley Portegies on LinkedIn
MedComms Experts Website

Hot Takes and Key Highlights

[03:43] Meeting Community HCPs Where They Are

To effectively reach time-poor community physicians, stop reinventing the wheel. Go where they already are. Whether it’s traditional routes like clinical guidelines and Independent Medical Education (IME), or digital spaces like Medscape, LinkedIn, or even Facebook, success comes from meeting them where they are and embedding valuable content into the channels they already trust and use.

“We have to really see where they're going and try to get our content or our information onto those sites.”

[08:31] Influencers and Editorial Committees in Scientific PR

To expand your scientific data’s reach, treat dissemination like PR. Raj highlights that it’s not just about where you publish, but who you involve and what platforms you target. By collaborating with well-connected authors, you increase the odds of being picked up by high-visibility channels like Urology Today. Rather than simply relying on big budgets or pharma-owned platforms, look for niche media already trusted by the community. Leverage their built-in audiences to organically amplify your message. Think strategically about where to publish different types of data and match the content to what those platforms are already spotlighting.

“Rather than you trying to build something yourself, it's much easier to leverage that. It's going to drive a lot more views and interest than you trying to get people to come to a pharmaceutical company site.”

[22:37] 3-Step Plan to Reach Community HCPs

If you’re looking to break away from traditional publication channels in Medical Communications, Raj offers a clear, actionable roadmap: start by deeply understanding your audience and researching where and how they consume information. Then, explore potential partnerships with the platforms they already trust, either directly or by positioning your content for discovery. Finally, align early with your commercial team on the core messaging and target audience to ensure consistency across all touchpoints, even when working independently.

“The first step is to very clearly identify your audience. And then, based on that, do a lot of research into where and how they're looking for information.”

[25:20] Using AI in Field Medical to Map Content Habits

To effectively reach HCPs in the community, don’t overthink it; just ask. Raj suggests starting with your Field Medical teams: have them directly ask HCPs where they consume content and where they’d go to find answers. From there, use AI tools to track how and where scientific content is being cited across media channels, and tap into your commercial team’s market research to uncover high-traffic platforms. Add in some good old-fashioned investigation: search online, look at metrics from IME programs, and talk to thought leaders.

“AI is a very useful place. You can basically ask it, Can you tell me where you see citations of this appearing on other non-peer-reviewed sites?”

If you’re shaping the future of Medical Affairs at your organization, this conversation is for you.

Reserve your session → Schedule now https://mce.global/consultancy

Insight Drop: Why Google Is Ignoring Your Medical Content and How to Fix It

MedComms Experts — Tue, 25 Nov 2025 12:00:00 +0000

You’ve invested heavily in clinical resources and HCP engagement initiatives. Your content is scientifically rigorous, expertly reviewed, and strategically valuable. Yet when HCPs search for answers, your platform doesn't appear on the first page, or maybe not at all.

In this episode of Transforming Medical Communications, Wesley Portegies is joined by Janna Crabb, Director of Digital Communications Strategy at MedComms Experts, to unpack the real strategy behind SEO in Medical Affairs and actionable insights for turning your HCP engagement platform into a search engine favorite.

We’ll talk about:

How to conduct keyword research that aligns your content language with actual HCP search behavior
The three pillars of SEO strategy
Why Google prioritizes content authority
How to structure your HCP engagement platform so search engine crawlers can easily navigate and index your content
The role of content syndication

If you’re shaping the future of Medical Affairs at your organization, this conversation is for you.

Reserve your session → Schedule now https://mce.global/consultancy

Telling Better Science: What MedComms Can Learn from Journalism

MedComms Experts — Wed, 12 Nov 2025 12:00:00 +0000

What if you could blend journalism techniques with Medical Communications to create more engaging scientific content? In this episode of Transforming Medical Communications, Wesley Portegies is joined by Christan Thomas, a Director of Oncology Scientific Communications at Pfizer, to delve into her journey from journalism to pharmaceutical communications, how she applies journalistic storytelling techniques to data dissemination, and her innovative approach to creating scientific content in oncology.

We’ll talk about:

Capturing HCP attention instantly by applying the journalist's "hook" to your scientific presentations
Transforming your content strategy by building every communication around one simple question: "Why should your audience care?"
Why combining patient perspectives with clinical data creates more compelling scientific narratives
How to balance scientific rigor with engaging storytelling in regulated environments

If you’re shaping the future of Medical Affairs at your organization, this conversation is for you.

Reserve your session → Schedule now https://mce.global/consultancy

Insight Drop: How Successful Medical Affairs Teams are Using Email to Drive HCP Engagement

MedComms Experts — Tue, 04 Nov 2025 12:00:00 +0000

With social media and digital platforms dominating the conversation, email marketing might seem like yesterday's news. However, for Medical Affairs professionals seeking to engage HCPs, email remains one of the most significant yet underutilized channels in their communication strategies.

In this episode of Transforming Medical Communications, Wesley Portegies is joined by Janna Crabb, Director of Digital Communications Strategy at MedComms Experts, to break down how pharma teams build effective, compliant, and engaging email strategies to reach without spamming or getting ignored.

We’ll talk about:

How to build a quality HCP email database through organic acquisition vs. purchased lists
Why email should be integrated into your broader omnichannel medical communications strategy
The optimal email frequency framework
How to structure email campaigns around key events like congress presentations and data releases
The three critical metrics for measuring email success
Why A/B testing subject lines and content can significantly improve engagement metrics

If you’re shaping the future of Medical Affairs at your organization, this conversation is for you.

Reserve your session → Schedule now https://mce.global/consultancy

The Missing Link in MedComms: Field Medical Insights That Actually Resonate

MedComms Experts — Tue, 14 Oct 2025 11:00:00 +0000

The traditional approach to Medical Communications often follows a top-down model: strategy flows from leadership teams to Field Medical, with content created based on broad objectives rather than real-world feedback. However, this misses a crucial opportunity to tap into the wealth of knowledge gathered by Medical Science Liaisons (MSLs) during their daily interactions with HCPs. In this episode of Transforming Medical Communications, Wesley Portegies is joined by the Director of Global Scientific Communications for Immunology at Sanofi, Erin Reineke, to share the importance of making field medical insights the backbone of content creation.

\We’ll talk about:

How to integrate field medical insights into content development to ensure messages resonate with target audiences
Why involving MSLs in content creation leads to more effective and practical field resources
The "adoption ladder" approach to tailoring content based on HCP knowledge levels and need

If you’re shaping the future of Medical Affairs at your organization, this conversation is for you.

Reserve your session → Schedule now https://mce.global/consultancy

How Pfizer Transformed HCP Engagement Without More Content

MedComms Experts — Tue, 30 Sep 2025 11:00:00 +0000

When 80% of HCPs find pharma content irrelevant to their needs, we have a problem. Omnichannel strategy in Medical Affairs requires a fundamental shift from pushing content through multiple channels to delivering targeted, audience-centric scientific communications that solve real healthcare challenges. In this episode of Transforming Medical Communications, Wesley Portegies is joined by the Omnichannel Lead of Global Scientific Communications Oncology at Pfizer, Nishal Patel, to unpack what omnichannel really means and how Medical Affairs can move beyond the buzzword to implement meaningful, measurable omnichannel strategies.

We’ll talk about:

How to differentiate between multichannel and omnichannel approaches
Why successful omnichannel requires starting with audience research before selecting channels or creating content
How to interpret engagement metrics beyond surface-level numbers to drive strategy optimization
Why change management and mindset shifts are crucial for successful omnichannel implementation
How to future-proof Medical Communications by embracing emerging technologies and shifting from traditional content dissemination models

If you’re shaping the future of Medical Affairs at your organization, this conversation is for you.

Reserve your session → Schedule now https://mce.global/consultancy

Insight Drop: Why 80% of Medical Content Goes Unseen

MedComms Experts — Fri, 12 Sep 2025 11:00:00 +0000

Creating valuable medical content is only half the battle. The real challenge? Making sure it actually reaches and impacts HCPs who need it most. In this episode of Transforming Medical Communications, Wesley Portegies is joined by Janna Crabb, Director of Digital Communications Strategy at MedComms Experts, to explore how Medical Affairs teams can design and implement effective digital awareness campaigns that drive measurable HCP engagement and behavior change.

We’ll talk about how to:

How to balance content creation with distribution efforts using the 2:1 ratio principle
Why multi-channel digital campaigns outperform single-channel approaches for reaching diverse HCP audiences
How to develop metrics-driven campaigns that optimize reach and engagement over time
The essential components of effective email strategies
Why community physicians need different outreach strategies than KOLs and conference attendees

If you’re shaping the future of Medical Affairs at your organization, this conversation is for you.

Reserve your session → Schedule now https://mce.global/consultancy

The SCP Playbook: Turning Strategy into Real-World Impact

MedComms Experts — Tue, 26 Aug 2025 11:00:00 +0000

Scientific Communication Platforms (SCPs) are crucial yet often underutilized tools for achieving consistent, impactful Medical Communications.

In this episode of Transforming Medical Communications, Wesley Portegies is joined by Janet Davies, Global Medical Communications Lead for Neurology at UCB, to dive into the development and implementation of SCPs.

Whether you're developing an SCP or looking to optimize an existing one, this conversation offers practical insights on aligning internal teams and creating impactful scientific narratives that resonate with healthcare professionals.

We’ll talk about how to:

How to develop an SCP that drives consistent messaging across Medical Affairs functions
Why early cross-functional alignment is essential for SCP success and adoption
The critical components of an effective SCP, including pillars and lexicon development
How to secure buy-in from different functions by demonstrating clear value propositions
When to initiate SCP development in the drug lifecycle and how often to update it
Why integrating patient perspectives and real-world feedback strengthens communication strategies

If you’re shaping the future of Medical Affairs at your organization, this conversation is for you.

Reserve your session → Schedule now https://mce.global/consultancy

Insight Drop: How XR and Storytelling Are Rewriting Medical Education

MedComms Experts — Tue, 12 Aug 2025 14:06:00 +0000

Medical Communications isn’t about clarity, it’s about impact. In the latest episode of Transforming Medical Communications, host Wesley Portegies sits down with Sabrina Guigan, Medical Communications expert, to explore how extended reality (XR) and multisensory engagement can turn traditional congress booths into high-impact educational experiences that stand out, deepen clinical understanding, and drive measurable outcomes.

In this episode, you'll learn how to:

Leverage extended reality (XR) technology to improve medical learning
Engage multisensory learning styles
Successfully measure the impact of immersive educational experiences
Build cross-functional collaboration

If you’re shaping the future of Medical Affairs at your organization, this conversation is for you.

Reserve your session → Schedule now https://mce.global/consultancy

Beyond Impact Factor: How Pfizer Measures Real-World Engagement

MedComms Experts — Tue, 29 Jul 2025 10:30:00 +0000

In Medical Communications, success isn’t about tracking metrics; it’s about mastering them.

In this episode of Transforming Medical Communications, Wesley Portegies is joined by MedComms strategist, J.R. Meloro, to discuss why mastering smarter metrics is no longer optional for Medical Affairs leaders; it’s a necessity.

Learn how to move beyond outdated metrics and implement smarter, more meaningful measurement strategies. Metrics should be your roadmap to better decisions, but only if you know how to use them effectively. The future of Medical Affairs depends on how well you track and act on data; those who don’t evolve will fall behind.

We’ll talk about how to:

Shift from traditional metrics to ones that reveal true content engagement and impact.
Use article-level metrics to measure the real-world reach of your research.
Make smarter decisions by tracking field content usage down to the slide level.

Before you hit play, ask yourself: Are you measuring what matters, or just what’s easy to track?

If you’re shaping the future of Medical Affairs at your organization, this conversation is for you.

Reserve your session → Schedule now https://mce.global/consultancy

Insight Drop: Strategic Thinking Over Execution: Redefining Agency Value in MedComms

MedComms Experts — Tue, 08 Jul 2025 13:54:00 +0000

Execution is everywhere in Medical Communications, but is your agency helping you think?

In this solo episode of Transforming Medical Communications, host Wesley Portegies draws from the 2025 State of MedComms survey to explore what pharma teams truly want from their agency partners. And the answer isn’t more slide decks. It’s strategy.

Wesley breaks down the five capabilities that Medical Affairs leaders expect from modern agencies, ranging from scientific depth to digital fluency, and explains why empathy, insight, and operational awareness are just as important as technical skill. He also shares a practical example that reveals the difference between a transactional vendor and a true thought partner, and offers clear steps to activate more strategic collaboration.

Whether you’re a Medical Affairs leader briefing an agency, this episode offers a timely shift in mindset, from output to impact.

In this episode, you’ll learn how to:

Recognize the five qualities that define a true thought partner
Brief agencies with context, not just deliverables
Create space for challenge, insight, and innovation
Measure value beyond the slide deck
Move from tactical output to strategic influence

Before you hit play, ask yourself: Is your agency just doing the work, or helping you make smarter decisions?

If you’re shaping the future of Medical Affairs at your organization, this conversation is for you.

Reserve your session → Schedule now https://mce.global/consultancy

Insight Drop: The 3 Trends Shaping MedComms in 2025

MedComms Experts — Tue, 24 Jun 2025 10:30:00 +0000

MedComms is overdue for a reboot. Static PDFs. Oversized decks. Siloed teams. No feedback loops. These outdated practices are slowing teams down and wasting valuable resources. In this episode of Transforming Medical Communications, Wesley Portegies shares bold insights from the State of Medical Communications 2025 survey and breaks down three urgent trends that pharma leaders can’t afford to ignore. From dismantling silos to killing the static PDF once and for all, this episode offers a practical roadmap to modernize how Medical Affairs teams create, deliver, and measure content.

You’ll learn how to:

Break down silos and align across medical, commercial, and affiliate teams
Build content that’s interactive, modular, and actually gets used
Track affiliate adoption and stop wasting global efforts

If you’re shaping the future of Medical Affairs at your organization, this conversation is for you.

Reserve your session → Schedule now https://mce.global/consultancy

Medical Affairs Is Winning on Social—Here’s How

MedComms Experts — Tue, 10 Jun 2025 10:30:00 +0000

Medical Affairs is evolving, but are we evolving with it?

In this episode of Transforming Medical Communications, host Wesley Portegies sits down with Kimberly Eskridge-Rose, a pioneering voice in digital transformation for Medical Affairs. Together, they discuss what it takes to move from cautious experimentation to a scalable and cross-functional social media strategy.

You’ll learn why the real risk isn’t being on social media, it’s not being there when misinformation takes the stage. Kimberly shares how her team made the leap from watching stakeholders online to building an integrated presence on platforms like X and BlueSky, how they secured compliance buy-in without friction, and why you don’t need all the answers before you start.

This is more than a case study. It’s a playbook for how Medical Affairs can own the conversation, responsibly, strategically, and at scale.

In this episode, you’ll learn how to:

Build a compliant and multi-channel presence that meets stakeholders where they are
Partner with compliance as a co-creator, not a blocker
Turn social listening into a strategic advantage
Use early wins (and metrics) to scale internal buy-in
Move from reactive to proactive digital content planning

Before you hit play, ask yourself: Are you waiting for the perfect plan—or building trust in real time?

If you’re shaping the future of Medical Affairs at your organization, this conversation is for you.

Reserve your session → Schedule now https://mce.global/consultancy

Why Great Content Still Falls Flat: The Global-to-Local Disconnect

MedComms Experts — Tue, 27 May 2025 11:00:00 +0000

There’s a silent gap in Medical Communications—and it’s not about effort, it’s about alignment.

In this episode of Transforming Medical Communications, host Wesley Portegies is joined by Simon Priou, an experienced global content leader, to unpack the persistent challenges between Global, Regional, and Local teams.

This conversation goes beyond content production—it reveals the human dynamics and workflow challenges that often prevent globally developed materials from being adapted, adopted, or impactful at the local level.

Whether you’re building affiliate toolkits or bridging silos, this episode offers a strategic lens on what actually enables trust, usability, and relevance across regions.

In this episode, you’ll learn how to:

Move from ‘content push’ to ‘collaborative pull’ by engaging regions and countries early
Localize with precision without compromising science or timelines
Identify the trust blockers that quietly erode alignment
Close the loop with feedback that drives measurable improvement

Before you hit play, ask yourself: Are you creating content that travels—or content that lands?

If you’re shaping the future of Medical Affairs at your organization, this conversation is for you.

Reserve your session → Schedule now https://mce.global/consultancy

Insight Drop – AI Fluency: The 2025 Leadership Skill Medical Affairs Can’t Ignore

MedComms Experts — Tue, 13 May 2025 10:45:00 +0000

In Medical Communications, survival isn’t about using AI; it’s about mastering it. In this episode of Transforming Medical Communications, Wesley Portegies is joined by AI strategist Subir Roy to discuss why mastering AI is no longer optional for leaders in Medical Affairs; it’s a competitive necessity. Learn how to eliminate inefficient processes, spot AI "hallucinations," and leverage human expertise to make smarter, faster decisions. AI can save you hours every day, but only if you know how to use it. The future belongs to those who harness AI as a strategic asset; those who don’t risk being left behind. This is your wake-up call: Master AI or risk becoming irrelevant.

We’ll talk about how to:

Eliminate low-value busywork and reclaim time for strategic impact.
Detect AI hallucinations and why human critical thinking matters more than ever.
Build personalized, adaptive content ecosystems that serve your learners.
Develop the essential leadership skill for 2025: prompt engineering.

If you’re shaping the future of Medical Affairs at your organization, this conversation is for you.

Reserve your session → Schedule now https://mce.global/consultancy

Insight Drop: Digital Engagement Is Broken - Here’s How Medical Affairs Can Fix It

MedComms Experts — Tue, 29 Apr 2025 10:30:00 +0000

Digital engagement in Medical Affairs is broken, and you know it. You’ve got channels that don’t connect, metrics that don’t matter, and “innovations” that die in MLR review. It’s not your fault. But it is fixable. In this episode of Transforming Medical Communications, Wesley Portegies is joined by digital strategist Alessandra Richardson to unpack the broken realities of digital engagement and how to build tools that actually work. This isn’t about adding more platforms. It’s about connecting the right ones, co-creating with the people you serve, and aligning teams from field to MLR to create measurable, meaningful impact. If you’re tired of spinning in digital circles, this is your reset.

We’ll talk about how to:

Design MLR-compliant digital tools that balance usability with regulatory success
Co-create with patients and caregivers to develop content that resonates and passes review
Connect your content ecosystem with an omnichannel strategy that actually works

If you’re shaping the future of Medical Affairs at your organization, this conversation is for you.

Reserve your session → Schedule now https://mce.global/consultancy

Stop Counting HCP Interactions: Start Measuring Impact

MedComms Experts — Tue, 15 Apr 2025 10:30:00 +0000

Most Medical Affairs leaders know the truth: Counting MSL<>HCP interactions is easy, but it’s meaningless. Vanity metrics are holding Field Medical back. In this episode of Transforming Medical Communications, Wesley Portegies is joined by Denise Clark, Regional Medical Director of the Rare Disease team at Amgen, to show you what to measure instead and how to finally prove your team's real impact. Denise brings a bold, disruptive perspective: activity is not impact. This conversation gives you the modern Field Medical playbook. It's not about doing more. It's about doing what moves the needle.

You’ll learn how to:

Stop reporting "reach and frequency" and learn what to measure instead.
Use the BGQ framework to plan goal-driven, insight-rich interactions.
Train MSLs to listen better, ask smarter questions, and drive scientific exchange.

If you’re shaping the future of Medical Affairs at your organization, this conversation is for you.

Reserve your session → Schedule now https://mce.global/consultancy

Modernizing Your MedComms Approach

MedComms Experts — Thu, 13 Mar 2025 11:00:00 +0000

Our special guest today is Matthew Krzywosz, Director of Scientific Communications and Content at Astellas Pharma. Join us as we explore the importance of tailoring Medical Communication content for your audience, why you should develop concise and digestible content in Medical Communications, the importance of harnessing audience insights and feedback, and strategies for modernizing your MedComms approach.

If you’re shaping the future of Medical Affairs at your organization, this conversation is for you.

Reserve your session → Schedule now https://mce.global/consultancy

From Research to Reach: How Sermo, Kudos, and Figshare Expand Your Audience

MedComms Experts — Wed, 12 Feb 2025 11:30:00 +0000

In this episode of the Transforming Medical Communications podcast, host Wesley Portegies is joined by Charlie Rapple, Dave Shoup, and Dan Valen. Together, they discuss how Kudos, Sermo, and Figshare contribute to the digital communications ecosystem of Medical Affairs and how you can integrate these platforms into your Medical Communications strategy.

Episode Highlights:

Maximizing Medical Affairs impact with third-party platforms
Why "build vs. buy" matters in digital communications
Choosing the right digital communication platform
Social media vs. third-party platforms
What metrics you should measure in Medical Affairs

If you’re shaping the future of Medical Affairs at your organization, this conversation is for you.

Reserve your session → Schedule now https://mce.global/consultancy

The Human Side of Medical Communications: Building Trust

MedComms Experts — Mon, 13 Jan 2025 11:00:00 +0000

In this episode of the Transforming Medical Communications podcast, host Wesley Portegies is joined by Nazan Artun to dive into the role of creativity and adaptability in Medical Communications. Nazan shares insights on how diverse experiences can spark innovation and enhance team dynamics, practical strategies for fostering creativity and building trust in client relationships, and effective approaches to how Medical Communications can evolve to meet future challenges.

Topics We Discuss

The role of creativity in Medical Communications
How to foster innovative thinking in Medical Communications
Building trust and collaboration between agencies and pharma companies
The importance of adaptability and diverse experiences in driving team success

If you’re shaping the future of Medical Affairs at your organization, this conversation is for you.

Reserve your session → Schedule now https://mce.global/consultancy

How to Tailor Your Medical Communications for Maximum Impact with Claire Liu

MedComms Experts — Fri, 06 Dec 2024 12:00:00 +0000

In this episode of the Transforming Medical Communications podcast, host Wesley Portegies is joined by Claire Liu to dive into the complexities of Medical Communications, discuss the nuances of handling communications across different stages of product life cycles, and share her strategies for maintaining a consistent voice in global medical communications.

Topics we Discuss

The key to effective Medical Communications during pre-launch, launch, and post-launch
How to tailor your communications for diverse audiences
The role of communication planning in aligning global and local messaging
How to capture HCPs' attention with bite-sized content

If you’re shaping the future of Medical Affairs at your organization, this conversation is for you.

Reserve your session → Schedule now https://mce.global/consultancy

Meeting HCPs Where They Are: The Rise of Med Info Websites

MedComms Experts — Wed, 13 Nov 2024 12:00:00 +0000

In this episode of the Transforming Medical Communications podcast, host Wesley Portegies is joined by Hiren Patel to discuss how innovation and collaboration can transform Medical Information delivery for healthcare professionals while addressing compliance challenges and budget considerations.

Topics we Discuss:

The importance of rethinking MedInfo
How to boost Medical Affairs impact on a budget
Why Medical Affairs need to invest in digital platforms
How AI can shape MedInfo delivery

If you’re shaping the future of Medical Affairs at your organization, this conversation is for you.

Reserve your session → Schedule now https://mce.global/consultancy

From Compliance to Creativity in Medical Communications with Andrea Lacasia

MedComms Experts — Tue, 15 Oct 2024 11:00:00 +0000

Welcome to the Transforming Medical Communications podcast brought to you by MedComms Experts. I am your host, Wesley Portegies. This podcast explores the dynamic landscape of Medical Communication strategies, innovations, and challenges. We aim to facilitate insightful conversations that contribute to advancing effective Medical Communications practices.

Our guest today is Andrea Lacasia. Join us as we discuss the intricate balance between innovation and compliance in Medical Communication, the unique challenges of communicating in the rare disease space, and innovative engagement strategies.

If you’re shaping the future of Medical Affairs at your organization, this conversation is for you.

Reserve your session → Schedule now https://mce.global/consultancy

Cross-Functional Collaboration in Medical Affairs with Caroline Ojaimi

MedComms Experts — Thu, 13 Jun 2024 11:00:00 +0000

Our special guest today is Caroline Ojaimi, the Head of Global Scientific Communications at Takeda Oncology. Join us as we dive into how Caroline is working towards creating a more cross-functional collaboration in different Medical Affairs functions and how Scientific Data Communications can be better streamlined.

If you’re shaping the future of Medical Affairs at your organization, this conversation is for you.

Reserve your session → Schedule now https://mce.global/consultancy

The Challenges of Medical Communications in the Digital Age With Ana Bozas

MedComms Experts — Mon, 13 May 2024 11:00:00 +0000

Our special guest today is Ana Bozas, Director of Scientific Publications and Medical Communications at Ipsen. Join us as we discuss the evolving landscape of Medical Communications and the need for the industry to adapt to modern HCP preferences.

If you’re shaping the future of Medical Affairs at your organization, this conversation is for you.

Reserve your session → Schedule now https://mce.global/consultancy

Unlocking the Potential of MSLs in Engaging HCPs with Michael Moore

MedComms Experts — Fri, 12 Apr 2024 11:00:00 +0000

Today, Michael Moore, Senior Medical Science Liaison (MSL) and Head of Field Medical Training and Development at Theranica Bio-Electronics, joins us to discuss the vital role MSLs play in educating and engaging healthcare professionals. Discover Michael's journey from academia to becoming an MSL and his passion for scientific communication.

We explore the power of storytelling and strategic questioning in driving effective medical communications and delve into the assessment and measurement of MSL impact. We round off the show by taking a peek into the future of Field Medical.

If you’re shaping the future of Medical Affairs at your organization, this conversation is for you.

Reserve your session → Schedule now https://mce.global/consultancy

Optimizing Medical Communications: Insights from Amanda Borrow

MedComms Experts — Wed, 13 Mar 2024 11:00:00 +0000

Welcome to the Transforming Medical Communications podcast brought to you by MedComms Experts; I am your host, Wesley Portegies. This podcast explores the dynamic landscape of medical communication strategies, innovations, and challenges. We aim to facilitate insightful conversations that contribute to advancing effective medical communications practices.

Joining us today is Amanda Borrow, Associate Director of Communication & Publication, Global Specialty Medical Affairs at Daiichi Sankyo. Join us as we discuss her journey from academia to medical communications and the importance of communication strategies for important research. We dive into the role of publication extenders in medical communications, the challenges in consuming scientific literature, and exciting future developments in the field of medical communications, including the role of AI and visual content.

If you’re shaping the future of Medical Affairs at your organization, this conversation is for you.

Reserve your session → Schedule now https://mce.global/consultancy

The Impact of Storytelling in Field Medical Settings: Lessons from Audrey Carnevale

MedComms Experts — Wed, 14 Feb 2024 12:00:00 +0000

Joining us today is Audrey Carnevale, Medical Communications Lead at Averitas Pharma. Audrey discusses the power of storytelling in medical communications and how it can create stronger connections and improve understanding. She shares her experience blending neuroscience and effective communication principles to craft compelling narratives. She also discusses the application of storytelling in different settings and the importance of understanding the audience's needs. Audrey provides tips on structuring presentations and training field medical teams in storytelling techniques. She highlights the role of storytelling in medical affairs and its impact on building relationships and influencing decision-making.

If you’re shaping the future of Medical Affairs at your organization, this conversation is for you.

Reserve your session → Schedule now https://mce.global/consultancy

Improving Patient Care through Medical Communications: Rebecca McCracken's Perspective

MedComms Experts — Sat, 13 Jan 2024 12:00:00 +0000

Joining us today is Rebecca McCracken, a Senior Director of Global Scientific Communications and Publications at a leading pharmaceutical company. We discuss transforming medical communications and improving patient care. Rebecca highlights the importance of accurate information, collaboration, and prioritizing patient-centered care.

If you’re shaping the future of Medical Affairs at your organization, this conversation is for you.

Reserve your session → Schedule now https://mce.global/consultancy

Unlocking the Power of Omnichannel in MedComms: Insights from Jennifer Ghith

MedComms Experts — Wed, 13 Dec 2023 12:00:00 +0000

Joining us today is Jennifer Ghith, Senior Director and Omnichannel Strategy and Innovations Lead at Pfizer. Tune in as we discuss the importance of omnichannel in the medical communications field. Jennifer shares her insights on the challenges of connecting different channels and functions, understanding the audience, and the future of medical communications.

If you’re shaping the future of Medical Affairs at your organization, this conversation is for you.

Reserve your session → Schedule now https://mce.global/consultancy

Putting Patients First: The Impact of Medical Affairs Featuring Linn Southall

MedComms Experts — Mon, 13 Nov 2023 11:00:00 +0000

Welcome to the Transforming Medical Communication podcast brought to you by MedComms Experts; I am your host, Wesley Portegies. This podcast explores the dynamic landscape of medical communication strategies, innovations, and challenges. We aim to facilitate insightful conversations that contribute to advancing effective medical communication practices.

Joining us today is Linn Southall, Medical Communications Director at Novartis Gene Therapies, for an insightful conversation on medical communications. Join us as Linn shares her valuable insights and experiences in the field, highlighting the importance of collaboration, personalized communication, and prioritizing patient outcomes. Tune in to discover how medical affairs and good business go hand in hand and gain a glimpse into the future of this ever-evolving industry.

If you’re shaping the future of Medical Affairs at your organization, this conversation is for you.

Reserve your session → Schedule now https://mce.global/consultancy

MedComms from a KOL Perspective: A Conversation with Dr. Drew Provan

MedComms Experts — Fri, 13 Oct 2023 11:00:00 +0000

Welcome to the Transforming Medical Communications podcast brought to you by MedComms Experts; I am your host, Wesley Portegies. This podcast explores the dynamic landscape of medical communication strategies, innovations, and challenges. We facilitate insightful conversations that contribute to advancing effective medical communication practices.

Joining us today is Drew Provan, an expert Hematologist and authority in Immune thrombocytopenia (ITP). We discuss Drew’s journey from studying molecular biology to becoming a physician, and expert in creating engaging and memorable presentations. We also discuss the future of medical communications, the role of storytelling, and the need for personalized content.

If you’re shaping the future of Medical Affairs at your organization, this conversation is for you.

Reserve your session → Schedule now https://mce.global/consultancy

The Power of Integrated Medical Communications: Perspectives from Sissy Easo-Joseph of GSK

MedComms Experts — Wed, 13 Sep 2023 11:00:00 +0000

Welcome to Transforming Medical Communications, a podcast by MedComms Experts, where we talk to the biggest and brightest names in the medical field to find out how they’re driving the industry forward and building for the future. I'm your host Wesley Portegies, and our guest today is Sissy Easo-Joseph, Director of Global Scientific Communications, Antibiotic Portfolio, at GSK.

Our discussion pivots around the vital role of medical communications in the pharmaceutical industry. Sissy shares her insights on the evolution of medical communication, the importance of fielding integrated strategies, and the power of insights in shaping effective communication.

Listen to the podcast to discover how medical communications professionals drive positive change by putting patients at the center of everything they do!

If you’re shaping the future of Medical Affairs at your organization, this conversation is for you.

Reserve your session → Schedule now https://mce.global/consultancy

Transforming Medical Communications Trailer

MedComms Experts — Wed, 13 Sep 2023 11:00:00 +0000

If you’re shaping the future of Medical Affairs at your organization, this conversation is for you.

Reserve your session → Schedule now https://mce.global/consultancy

Enhancing Medical Affairs Training: Strategies and Innovations with Barbara Bish

MedComms Experts — Wed, 13 Sep 2023 11:00:00 +0000

Welcome to the Transforming Medical Communications podcast brought to you by MedComms Experts; I am your host, Wesley Portegies. In this podcast, we explore the dynamic landscape of medical communication strategies, innovations, and challenges. We aim to facilitate insightful conversations that contribute to the advancement of effective medical communication practices.

Joining us today is Barbara Bish, Director of Global Medical Affairs and Internal Education at Janssen. Together, we discuss the evolving role of medical affairs professionals, the importance of ongoing training, and the potential of adaptive learning and technology in the field. Barbara also shares her passion for lifelong learning and offers advice for aspiring professionals, providing valuable insights into medical affairs training and highlights the need for continuous learning and innovation.

If you’re shaping the future of Medical Affairs at your organization, this conversation is for you.

Reserve your session → Schedule now https://mce.global/consultancy