The Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation (PFF) and Veracyte, Inc. (NASDAQ: VCYT) announced that the organizations are partnering on a U.S. patient survey to advance understanding of patients' diagnostic experiences with interstitial lung diseases (ILDs), including idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). The Interstitial Lung Disease Patient Journey (INTENSITY) survey will assess the steps and time required for patients to receive a diagnosis, specific obstacles hindering timely diagnosis, and the physical and emotional impact of patients' diagnostic journey.
"IPF and other ILDs are notoriously difficult to diagnose, leading to treatment delays, added healthcare costs and significant emotional impact for patients and caregivers," said Gregory P. Cosgrove, MD, chief medical officer of the PFF. "Results from the INTENSITY survey will help us more fully understand patients' diagnostic experiences so that we can further our efforts among all stakeholders to improve timely diagnosis and treatment of this disease. This ability is more critical than ever, given the recent availability of treatments that can slow progression of IPF."
Dr. David Lederer, PFF senior medical advisor, education and awareness, led development of the INTENSITY survey, which is being conducted online by independent healthcare research organization Outcomes Insights, with funding support from Veracyte. Results are expected to be announced later this year.
"We are delighted to be partnering with the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation, the leading pulmonary fibrosis information resource and support network in the United States, on this important survey," said Bonnie Anderson, Veracyte's president and chief executive officer. "This effort demonstrates our commitment to address the significant needs of ILD and IPF patients."
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