Understanding Patient Support Programs in Alpha-1
Season 5 – Episode 4
with Shanta Zurock (Innomar)
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Welcome to Episode 4 of Season 5 of the Expand Podcast
This episode continues our journey through Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency (AATD) and COPD, focusing on the real-world challenges patients face when accessing care. We explore what happens after diagnosis: the role of biologic treatments, infusion services, reimbursement navigation, and the critical importance of patient support programs.
About this Episode
In this episode, Dr. Jean Bourbeau sits down with Shanta Zurock to discuss how complex therapies like biologic infusions are managed in the real world, particularly for individuals living with AATD and COPD. Ms. Zurock, who works at Innomar Strategies, sheds light on the behind-the-scenes efforts required to help patients access care, stay adherent to treatment, and feel supported throughout their health journey.
The conversation dives deep into patient advocacy, the administrative challenges of reimbursement, and how personalized support services make a difference in long-term outcomes.
Today You Will Learn:
- Why biologic treatments require coordinated support
- How infusion therapy is delivered to patients
- What services organizations like Innomar provide
- The challenges of reimbursement and healthcare access
- How advocacy and collaboration improve patient experiences
Our Special Guest
Shanta Zurock is a senior professional in the pharmaceutical environment, experienced clinical pharmacist, insurance drug plan manager, and pharmaceutical market access professional, with extensive knowledge of the health care, insurance and drug environment in Canada.
Resources to go Deeper
- Living Well with COPD – AATD Module: Create your free account to access our new interactive COPD modules (updated April 2025). Register now
- Canadian Thoracic Society AATD Guidelines: Read the latest clinical recommendations. View the full article
- AlphaNet Canada: A patient organization offering education, peer support, and advocacy. Visit site
RESPIPLUS™ received support from Takeda Canada to develop an informative podcast series specifically tailored to AATD. This initiative aims to:
- Educate healthcare professionals about the latest advancements in AATD management
- Empower patients with accurate information on accessing resources within the Canadian system
- Foster a supportive community for individuals living with AATD
Collaborating Organizations
This podcast series was developed with the valuable collaboration of several organizations committed to improving care and awareness for individuals living with Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency (AATD):
- AlphaNet Canada: Supporting patients through education, advocacy, and peer support. alphanetcanada.ca
- Innomar: An organization that specializes in helping patients access complex therapies across Canada.
- PPTA: The leading global organization advocating for plasma donation and ensuring the availability of life-saving plasma-based treatments.
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