What is the exact procedure for preparing the dossier?
Systematic research is always the first step, during which I collect all available and relevant information. Then I build up the dossier. To do this, I work together with statisticians and epidemiologists from Roche, with market research, the regulatory department, the drug safety team and medical management. I need to have a good understanding of the disease to be able to present all relevant aspects of the drug. This includes, for example, the mode of action, the number of patients that can be treated with the drug, the results of the clinical trials and an assessment of the additional benefit.
What do you find particularly exciting about "Market Access"?
It is an ideal position for us broadly trained pharmacists. I am involved in scientific studies, but I also have a connection to the patient and to everyday medical life, because I have to consider many perspectives. I am also involved in international teams and I am a member of the global Market Access Team, with whom I exchange a lot of information. There is also the possibility to go abroad for a certain period of time. I find it exciting that I can still work scientifically, but not in academic research, but in relation to a real drug with concrete benefits for the patient. Last but not least, you have very good career opportunities as an HTA manager, because it is a very important position that receives a lot of attention in the company.
How does the cooperation with other departments at Roche work?
As an HTA Manager, you have many points of contact with the most diverse departments. I lead a cross-functional project team consisting of colleagues from Medical Management, Drug Safety, Statistics, Regulatory Affairs and Epidemiology, who support me in preparing the dossier. In cross-functional teams we also think about marketing and sales for the new drug. How do we train the sales force? What was presented at medical congresses? What are the competitors doing? As HTA Manager, I provide important information in these cases and learn a lot at the same time.
What do you like about your employer Roche?
Roche is a very employee-friendly company that really does a lot for its employees. Especially in terms of flexible working models and working hours, it's great here. For example, I can work a lot in the home office and I schedule my own work. They have great confidence in us. The induction training is also very well organised: There is a starting week in which each employee is specifically introduced to the work, gets to know the colleagues and visits the company headquarters in Basel, for example. During the first six months you can also stay in the guesthouse free of charge. Roche is very interested in the development of each individual employee - that's great because I know I have good opportunities here.