Conference Coverage
VIDEO: Working with alopecia patients’ insurers when using novel therapies
ORLANDO – Part of treating patients with alopecia areata is trying to obtain insurance coverage for promising treatments and screening for other...
SILVER SPRING, MD. – The emotional challenges facing alopecia areata patients are as tough, or tougher, than the physical challenges, according to many patients participating in a public meeting on alopecia areata patient-focused drug development.
A panel of patients shared their experiences of living with alopecia areata, including Elizabeth DeCarlo of Wilmington, Delaware. In a video interview at the meeting, held at FDA headquarters on Sept. 11, Ms. DeCarlo elaborated on what she would like clinicians to understand about alopecia patients that might surprise them, and what matters to her as a patient.
“I would tell them to be more compassionate,” Ms. DeCarlo said. “It’s very emotional.” She also emphasized the value of giving alopecia patients information about local support groups, as well as national organizations such as the National Alopecia Areata Foundation.
Ms. DeCarlo had no financial conflicts to disclose.