News Ways to Access Multiple Myeloma Patient-to-Patient Resources

Since 2013, Sanofi has offered the Multiple Myeloma Journey Partners (MMJP) program as a free educational tool for people living with multiple myeloma and their caregivers to learn about autologous stem cell transplants (ASCT) from a patient with first-hand experience. Our Journey Partners’ personal experience with ASCT make them ideal people to talk to new patients about what to expect during this difficult time in their diagnosis.

This program has consistently been offered in-person in conjunction with multiple myeloma support groups and patient advocacy organizations across the US. However, what the COVID-19 pandemic brought to light was more than a need for a temporary solution as the world went into lock-down. We learned that more long-term, virtual forms of this program would be beneficial for people in remote areas, people with limited access to travel and technology, or people who might not be looking for a program at the time one is available in their area.

The MMJP program has officially been expanded to offer:

• Webinar Programs – These 60-minute virtual programs will mirror some of the in-person programs, but now allow people to attend them from the comfort of their home.
• Phone Program – Understanding that not everyone has similar access to internet or technology, or might not be seeking out a program when one is scheduled in their area, we are launching 45-minute one-on-one phone conversations between our Journey Partners and other multiple myeloma patients. This offering in particular will allow patients to get the information they’re seeking, when they want it.

This pandemic has taught all of us is that there are other ways to connect with patients. I’m confident these new offerings will be beneficial for many people in need of learning about ASCT from someone who can offer a unique, personal perspective.