In a Year of Unprecedented Growth for Biotechnology Innovation, Targeted Therapies Gain Most Significant Traction, According to New Delo...(Solutions' 2008 Survey ofHealth Care Con...)

-- Nearly 90 percent of consumers are interested in using a self-

monitoring device at home if they developed a condition requiring

monitoring.

-- Twenty percent used an alternative approach to treatment, such as

homeopathic, naturopathic, acupuncture, chiropractic, and bio-electric

therapies; 40 percent might do so in the future.

-- Twelve percent consulted an alternative health care practitioner (for

example, an herbalist, homeopath or chiropractor); 38 percent might do

so in the future.

-- Nine percent substituted an alternative or natural therapy for a

prescription medication; 32 percent might in the future.

-- Thirty-two percent prefer to choose doctors with an orientation toward

holistic or alternative treatments.

-- Fourteen percent are aware of biologic drugs; consumers did not express

a clear preference between biologic and traditional pharmaceuticals.

-- Nearly 40 percent would consider traveling to a foreign country to have

an elective procedure performed if they could save 50 percent or more

and be assured that the quality was equal to or better than what is

available in the United States.

"Life sciences firms should seek to develop products that respond to consumers' desires for improved capabilities to self-monitor and manage their own care, and address their interest in alternative and personalized treatment options, as well as non-conventional delivery models," said Terry Hisey, vice chairman and industry leader of Deloitte LLP's life sciences practice. "Insights from our research indicate that there are unmet consumer needs that present opportunities for pharmaceutical manufacturers, biotechnology firms, and medical product, technology and device manufa
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