OBJECTIVES : There has been an increased interest in the applications of real world data (RWD) in drug development. Many organizations now have or are in the process of building RWE analytical capabilities. Patient registries, healthcare databases and pharmacy/insurance databases have been used as sources of data. In this study, we explored the potential of novel data collected through electronic administration of a survey via mobile app to inform payer decision making. METHODS : The “Real-world insights of patients living with HIV (PLHIV) Shared through electronic devices” (RISE) study was a cross-sectional survey including 2,648 patients, designed to obtain a current understanding of the impact HIV has on patients’ lives in the US. The study evaluated health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and treatment satisfaction in PLHIV who have achieved viral suppression. Data collected was presented to three U.S. payers from Medicaid and commercial plans; its potential value and implications for use were discussed. RESULTS : Overall the study provided varied and detailed insights into PLHIVs’ life depending on insurance background. Data suggests PLHIV with private insurance report better HRQoL, satisfaction, and adherence compared to Medicaid, Medicare and Ryan White patients. Payers commented on the relevance of findings within reimbursement decisions and the potential use of electronic HRQoL data to better support patients and direct resources in PLHIV. Payers believe that RWD offers enormous potential for decision making, especially in resource allocation. However, data usability for this type of decision making needs to be increased. CONCLUSIONS : The potential of RWD to revolutionize the patient care landscape is significant. Nevertheless, RWD opportunities are often challenging to realize as stakeholders must contend with issues such as lack of data standardization and quality assessment. However, incorporating information from a variety of sources may be valuable in aiding payer decision making, particularly inclusion of patient needs and health behavioural patterns.