A bridge to the field: how real-world data informs rare disease care

“We try to identify and understand how to better support patients outside the context of clinical trials.” 

As a Field Medical Advisor in Rare Disease, Antonios Letis works at the intersection of data, physicians, and patients. His focus includes cholestatic conditions such as PBC — areas where innovation has shifted what is possible. 

“A couple of years ago, there were no medicines for some rare diseases. Today, we can inform doctors about the innovation Ipsen is leading to address these illnesses.” 

His role centers on real-world evidence. “It’s about the patients doctors see who are not included in clinical trials,” he explains. “They have a different path.” 

He spends most of his time bridging the gap between the doctors and the data. engaging directly with physicians. These exchanges support medical posters, congress presentations, and the broader scientific dialogue. “These are not just simple materials for simple conferences,” he says. “They are major events with great scientists and great impact. Everyone contributes toward the same goal of improving patients’ lives. 

Antonios sees his academic background as preparation for this moment. “I’m a pharmacist with an academic background. I’ve published articles. But now all of this has impact,” he says. “You communicate the data to doctors about the research we’re doing, about the innovation, about the options. The patient is at the center.” 

He does not separate science from experience. “You’re not just reading data in a book. You’re synchronized with what is happening now,” he says. “I see patients who are happy that they’re using our medications, and they do not have pruritus or other symptoms.” 

His perspective remains grounded. “There is always hope,” he says. “And there are people working to give them a better life.” For Antonios, his work begins by listening, analyzing, and sharing, always linking the pathway of where data meets care.