Jan/Feb 2013

Home infusion pharmacy services have the potential to expand a specialty pharmacy operation with a focus on coordination of care. Here's how this niche business has changed, along with a road map for establishing a home infusion therapy service line.

The approval of tofacitinib (Xeljanz) brings a new therapy to the market that could have a big impact on the rheumatoid arthritis treatment paradigm.

Achieving a sustained viral response in patients with hepatitis C is showed to reduce the risk of liver cancer.

Health care professionals debate the usefulness and limitations of a home detecton test for HIV.

Today's hub programs are "patient solution centers," connecting patients with all the health care professionals who are involved in their care. The utilization of hubs is integral to the future of specialty products.

In the rapidly changing specialty oncology space, accreditation, technology, data reporting, and customer service are some of the keys to staying ahead.

Vital information on the URAC accreditation process is presented that will help specialty pharmacies prepare. Watch for subsequent articles on the 5 main URAC specialty pharmacy modules of standards.

Because cost is such an important factor for manufacturers, specialty pharmacies, and patients, Bona Fide Service Fees--and their impact on Average Manufacturer Price--deserve careful attention.

Collaborations between manufacturers, specialty pharmacies, and patients must be based on integrity and trust to be successful.

As the field of specialty pharmacy continues to grow, there is an increased need for communication, discussion, and advocacy.