SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — October 20, 2026

PHIL Inc. released The DTP Breakthrough: A Deep Dive on Pharma’s Direct-to-Patient Next Generation, a report examining the adoption, strategic priorities and operational evolution of direct-to-patient (DTP) programs across the U.S. life sciences industry. Based on an independent third-party survey of 74 U.S. life sciences leaders, the research found that 76% of respondents consider DTP a mission-critical or very important strategic priority today. The report also indicates that mission-critical sentiment is expected to increase by 20% on a relative basis over the next 12 months. In addition, 70% of respondents reported that DTP initiatives have already had a significant or transformative impact on patient access. The findings reflect the growing role of DTP programs in pharmaceutical companies’ strategies for improving access to therapies and supporting patient needs.

Flexible Access and Hybrid Models Shape DTP Strategies

The report identifies multiple affordability pathways, flexible intake options and speed of access as the three leading priorities for addressing patient needs through DTP programs. Hybrid models that route patients toward the most affordable pathway, whether cash payment or insurance coverage, are becoming a common configuration. Nearly two-thirds of established DTP programs currently use this approach, according to the survey. PHIL CEO and Founder Deepak Thomas said DTP is becoming a core component of patient access infrastructure, emphasizing the importance of providing flexibility between cash and coverage rather than treating them as competing options. The research also found that most DTP programs either actively support specialty products or plan to support them within the next 12 months. More broadly, manufacturers are considering how program design can accommodate different patient populations, affordability requirements and evolving therapeutic portfolios.

AI Adoption and Program Expansion Create New Opportunities

The survey points to continued investment in DTP expansion as pharmaceutical manufacturers seek to extend programs to additional brands and therapeutic areas. More than half of respondents said their organizations are already leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) in DTP programs, indicating an opportunity for further technology adoption. The report also highlights growing interest in external partnerships that provide flexible, end-to-end capabilities to support changing brand priorities, patient requirements and compliance considerations. These operational shifts suggest that manufacturers are evaluating DTP not only as a channel for distributing therapies but also as an integrated approach to patient access and support. The report builds on earlier PHIL research examining what patients and healthcare providers want from these programs, broadening the perspective to include the strategic and operational decisions made by life sciences leaders.

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PHIL Expands Partnerships Across Pharmaceutical Brands

PHIL reported continued DTP program activity across multiple therapeutic areas and customer relationships. Recent initiatives cited by the company include a partnership with Tenpoint Therapeutics to launch a direct-to-patient cash program for YUVEZZI, a presbyopia therapy, and a collaboration with Evolved Health to launch a direct-to-patient program for New Day Skin Spray. PHIL also highlighted an expansion of its affordable DTP access program with Sprout Pharmaceuticals for Addyi (flibanserin). These examples illustrate the range of programs manufacturers may develop to address affordability and access needs. PHIL provides direct-to-patient and digital hub services designed to support pharmaceutical manufacturers in improving access, affordability and adherence. The company said its latest report offers further findings on the strategic priorities and operational changes expected to shape the next generation of pharmaceutical DTP programs.

Source::PHIL Inc ,press release