​Digital transformation of global regulatory affairs: Then, now and next

DIGITAL licensed cropped

Abstract

The combined advent of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) and Health Level 7’s (HL7) next generation standard for Fast Healthcare Interoperability Resources (FHIR) has lifted a rarely discussed ‘chilling effect’ on regulatory innovation. The regulatory ecosystem and its resource capacity has been modernised, resulting in revolutionary shifts in how regulatory affairs will operate in the pharmaceutical industry.  

This article describes the business impact of lifting this chilling effect and how pharmaceutical organisations can leverage this new paradigm to maximum effect and impact. This includes accelerating document generation timelines, replacing the staggered submission wave model with a simultaneous global submission model, and delivering personalised label content to patients on demand. 

The scale and pace of this change will be significant. Industry and regulators will need to collaborate and coordinate change management and upskilling efforts to maximise the benefits and incentives, and ensure there is a smooth transition as our industry moves into a more modern way of creating, receiving and processing information. 

How to read this journal article 

Thank you for visiting Regulatory Rapporteur. Journal articles are restricted to TOPRA members and registered users.

If you are a TOPRA member, or have already registered for limited free access, log in now (Option 1 below).

Not yet a member? You can either join TOPRA (Option 2 below) or register to view limited content for free (Option 3 below).

1. LOGIN

Already a TOPRA member?

Log in now using your MyTOPRA credentials, for unlimited access to all Regulatory Rapporteur journal articles, the online archive and latest industry news and podcasts.

Already registered for free content?

If you are not a TOPRA member but have already created an account to access limited free content, log in here using your registered user email and password.

Login

2. JOIN TOPRA

Special offer on
TOPRA membership

Join TOPRA today and get membership until the end of 2026 for the exclusive rate of £230.

In addition to unlimited access to Regulatory Rapporteur content, as a TOPRA member you will also be able to enjoy a wide range of benefits including career boosting resources, savings on our events and training, and access to our regional networks and special interest groups.

This offer ends 30 September 2025

Become a member

3. REGISTER FOR FREE

Want free access to selected content?

Register now to continue to access industry news, editorials and podcasts plus one member-only journal article each month.

  • Create your own library to save your favourite content.
Create a free account