Change Management for Rare Disease Teams

A Case Study

Back-ground First-ever gene therapy, first-in-class treatment for rare genetic disease. Start-up company with unique field-based team structure.
Challenges
  • Field-based teams report through different functional areas
  • Compliance guidelines restrict flow of information and cause confusion
  • Internal resistance to new working system due to lack of common objectives
  • No consistent planning tool; lacking structure, strategic content, dates, interdependencies
  • Problems with plan utilization and task owner transition
Solution A two-month assessment and discovery process identified the challenges and opportunities for the organization. A structural change added Field Team Leaders. The FTL’s were given a structure and tools for field team collaboration. A compliance training program was introduced to educate and reduce anxiety. Utilized coaching with internal team leaders to help visualize common goals and improved collaboration. Leadership approved a new collaborative planning process. Team launch meetings were designed and implemented. Teams developed their own plans and received leadership approval.
Result Increased confidence in compliance guidelines and information sharing. Team leaders well prepared for launch planning, live regional planning sessions held and draft plans completed. Commercial and Medical leadership integrated with the process.