A recent global study by WE Communications, encompassing 540 physicians (57% specialists, 43% general practitioners) across six countries, reveals that corporate reputation plays a pivotal role in prescribing behaviour. This research builds on previous findings and underscores the importance of a company's overall reputation and expertise in specific disease areas.The survey was conducted in partnership with Sapio Research across Australia, China, Germany, India, the UK, and the US. Reputation's Influence on Prescribing DecisionsAccording to the survey, 81% of physicians consider corporate reputation to have at least a moderate impact on their perception of a medicine's value, particularly when comparing treatments with similar safety, efficacy, and pricing.Three Levels of ReputationBiopharma companies must cultivate their reputation at three distinct levels: Corporate Reputation: This encompasses the overall image of the company, including its reliability and credibility. Disease-Specific Reputation: Expertise and commitment in particular therapeutic areas. Product Reputation: The standing of individual medicines within the market.Companies that invest in enhancing their reputation at these levels can craft compelling narratives about their dedication to specific therapeutic areas, which can significantly influence prescribing choices."Reputation is at times mistakenly viewed as a soft asset in the healthcare industry, yet our survey has shown that it has clear bottom-line consequences. It can make the difference between a physician writing a script for your treatment or not,?Ç¥ said Stephanie Marchesi, President, WE Global HealthDrivers of Corporate ReputationPhysicians identified several key factors that drive corporate reputation:Reliability and Credibility: 62% of physicians associate this with confidence in product quality and efficacy. Emphasizing evidence-based outcomes and transparency in clinical trials is essential.Trust: Demonstrating a long-term commitment to patient well-being fosters trust. Companies should highlight their ethical practices and patient support programs.Transparency and Communication: Transparency in clinical research and clear stakeholder communication are crucial. Younger physicians, in particular, value openness about research challenges and successes.Innovation: A significant majority (72%) believe that addressing unmet medical needs through patient-centric solutions defines innovation. Highlighting advancements in research and development is vital.Top Actions for Improving Corporate ReputationLead with Innovation: Showcase scientific advancements and patient journeys from drug discovery through to delivery, focusing on areas with high unmet needs.Treat Physicians as Partners: Be transparent about pricing and access programs, and emphasize patient benefits in communications.Capitalize on Digital Trends: Incorporate social media into your marketing and communication strategies, as it is a growing source of professional information for physicians.The Role of Digital ChannelsWith 59% of physicians using social media for professional purposes and significant usage in markets like China (57%), integrating digital trends into your communications strategy is essential.