Universal Patient Language

The Universal Patient Language program is a first-of-its-kind framework at Bristol Myers Squibb (BMS), designed to make health communication clearer, more compassionate, and more actionable for every patient. It's a set of principles, tools, and templates that help simplify complex science without losing accuracy.

Learn it. Apply it. Share it.  
The UPL makes communication clearer for everyone.

The Mission Behind UPL

Learn why the Universal Patient Language was created and how it helps make complex health information clearer, more compassionate, and more actionable for patients.

Our Purpose

Put UPL Into Practice

See how the nine UPL principles guide clear communication. Explore real examples and learn practical ways to apply UPL in your own materials.

How to Implement

Access UPL Resources

Find tools, templates, and guidance, including rules, style recommendations, and thought starters, to help you create patient-friendly communications.

Tool Library

What our collaborators are saying about the UPL

“This is a great effort. I applaud you for involving so many patients and caregivers. Keep this up! It really distinguishes you as an organization and a high-quality group of leaders.”

Advocacy Representative

“I commend BMS for taking a leadership role to bring people with different perspectives together to help educate patients and caregivers.”

Patient

“It's so grounded! It goes really deep! It has solid foundations!”