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  • World Diabetes Day at Novo Nordisk Israel November 14, 2024
    World Diabetes Day at Novo Nordisk IsraelNovember 14, 2024
    World Diabetes Day at Novo Nordisk Israel

    In the wake of the recent World Diabetes Day celebrations at Novo Nordisk, we interviewed Hadas (HDAG) on the importance and meaning of this annual milestone.

    What inspired the activities, events and the key objectives for World Diabetes Day at Novo Nordisk?
    The driving force behind the activities and events for World Diabetes Day is to increase awareness and better understanding of diabetes, not just for our employees but also for HCPs and the larger community we serve. The patient is always at the forefront of everything we strive to achieve.
    The success of World Diabetes Day wouldn't have been possible without the dedicated efforts of our team committee members: Revital (REVZ), Ruti (RTMY), Tal (TLQS), Adi (ARTO), Sharon (SPRL), Anna (AKFI), Hanna (HRZB) and Raneen (REAS).

    Diabetes? We Care!

    How did the company engage with employees, HCPs and the community to raise awareness about diabetes during this event?
    Our approach was multifaceted, encompassing a range of activities from informative panels with HCPs, exposure on media channels, a short movie about diabetes was produced (you can watch it below), an impactful lecture by a leading cardiologist, blood pressure and blood tests for diabetes risk detection. A new slogan was created for the event:
    Diabetes? We Care!
    To conclude the day, we organized a health walk to raise awareness about diabetes and its impact on overall health, emphasizing the importance of physical activity in diabetes prevention and management.

    How did the activities align with Novo Nordisk's mission and commitment to diabetes care and awareness?
    The activities aligned with NNWay’s essential #4: ‘we are curious and innovate for the benefit of patients and society at large’ and with our mission and commitment to diabetes care and awareness by showing our dedication to providing the most effective treatments and sustaining the health of those affected by diabetes.

    What were some of the challenges faced in organizing and executing these activities and how were they overcome?
    In order to ensure successful planning, our committee members first met six months ahead of World Diabetes Day to work within tight schedules and to be able to deal with our current uncertain and unpredictable situation. However, thanks to our resilience and resourcefulness these challenges were skillfully handled ensuring a memorable and successful campaign.

    Walk for Diabetes

    What were the most impactful moments from the World Diabetes Day celebrations at Novo Nordisk?
    The Walk for Diabetes in the park which was attended by a significant group of employees was all the more appreciated given the challenging times. The insightful lectures and discussions were particularly memorable, bringing a strong sense of purpose and unity within our community. The positive feedback received from employees and HCPs makes it all worthwhile.

    What is the significance and meaning of World Diabetes Day to you?
    For the past six years, I've been working at NNIL with a clear goal; to help more patients receive better care. Over 700,000 people are dealing with a disease that affects their health, quality of life, and relationships. Working at a company that provides treatments affecting these areas, I feel compelled to make a difference especially now during these trying times of conflict, where staying healthy and strong is crucial.

  • Interview with Sana Sader:
    A Day in the Life of a Medical Science Liaison (MSL)
    Interview with Sana Sader: A Day in the Life of a Medical Science Liaison (MSL)
    Can you describe a typical day in your role as an MSL?

    Can you describe a typical day in your role as an MSL?
    As an MSL, I meet with specialists such as cardiologists and endocrinologists, armed with up to date medical research and data to effectively engage in scientific interactions, bring insights and updates from KOLs to the brand team, and visit HCPs to present relevant medical information and discuss treatment options for patients. Building and maintaining relationships with HCPs is crucial to foster collaboration and ensure the latest medical information and resources are readily available. Additionally, providing scientific collaboration and support to cross-functional units like sales, marketing and MAPA is integral. Until July 2024 I was the only Obesity MSL, when Reut (RTDV) joined NNIL.

    How do you prioritize your daily activities?

    How do you prioritize your daily activities?
    Prioritization is key in my role. I address urgent needs first, such as attending to immediate concerns from HCPs or urgent patient care issues. Following this, I focus on planned visits and discussions, ensuring I allocate time to engage with a variety of HCPs and provide them with necessary support and information. I lecture at ‘Journal Club’ meetings with HCPs to learn about new medical updates and interact with other participants.

    What are some common challenges you face in your role and how do you overcome them?
    As an MSL, it was important to clarify with KOLs the need for a go-to person when scientific insights are discussed. Time constraints faced by HCPs is a common challenge. Overcoming this involves efficient planning and ensuring that the information provided is concise and tailored to their specific needs. Another challenge is balancing assignments between field, supportive and administrative.

    How do you handle objections or concerns from HCPs or clients?
    I don't see them as objections or obstacles, on the contrary, these concerns may lead to some significant insights that can have a major impact on the strategy. It is very important to understand the HCPs journey alongside the patients journey and to understand whether our medical data can fit into their clinical experience. However, if there's an objection that is derived from knowledge gaps, I see this as an opportunity to ensure the proper educational journey for this specific HCP.

    Walk for Diabetes

    What do you find most rewarding about your job?
    Witnessing the positive impact our products and services have on patients' lives is incredibly fulfilling. Additionally, the learning process and sharing knowledge with KOLs through ‘Journal Clubs’ are rewarding experiences.

    How do you see the role of an MSL evolving in the next few years?
    I see the future MSL role involving more depth in specific aspects of a disease, increased involvement in strategic plan building, and more specific data-driven communication with HCPs. Additionally, I anticipate a more technological work environment incorporating tools such as AI for identifying trends and providing insights into clinical data.

    What advice would you give to someone considering a career as an MSL?
    It is important to cultivate a deep understanding of the medical landscape, develop strong communication skills, prioritize building meaningful relationships with HCPs and remain adaptable and open to continuous learning.

    A few things we don't know about you?

    • I began working at NNIL in 2014 as a Diabetes SR and in 2017, I became an Obesity SR. At the end of 2022, I started my new role working as an Obesity MSL.
    • My initials SSAX remind HCPs of Saxenda®!
    • I'm married to Emad and I'm a mum to Majd (11) and Amal (8). They give me the energy to be a better me every day.
    • Outside of work, I enjoy playing the piano, working out, love reading and am passionate about contributing to community initiatives focused on health education and awareness.


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