Development of a Patient Journey Map for Metabolic Dysfunction–Associated Steatohepatitis: A Comprehensive Assessment of the Patient Journey in North America

Patient experience maps are valuable tools for raising awareness of the patient journey, identifying resource gaps, enhancing access to essential services, and ultimately improving patient outcomes. Here, we describe the development of a metabolic dysfunction–associated steatohepatitis (MASH) patient journey map and its refinement through collaboration with a group comprising eight patient advocates and one person living with MASH, collectively known as the MASH Patient Organizations Who Enable Results (POWER) Council. The patient journey map aimed to identify challenges and unmet needs for people with MASH and to understand the specific experiences of various patient subpopulations. We identified gaps in symptom management, patient–healthcare professional communication, timely diagnoses, access to care, coordination between specialists, and understanding of the impact of MASH on patients’ and caregivers’ daily lives. These gaps were further compounded in those with severe MASH, particularly Hispanic/Latino populations. These findings highlight the challenges and unmet needs faced by people living with MASH and their caregivers.