How Collaborative Practice Agreements Help Pharmacists Accelerate and Safeguard MS Treatment Initiation

In this interview with Pharmacy Times, Ryan Fuller, PharmD, discusses how collaborative practice agreements (CPAs) have helped reduce delays related to laboratory testing, insurance authorization, and medication access for patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). He explains that pharmacist involvement has streamlined the initiation process by guiding patients through medication selection, ordering necessary labs, and coordinating therapy approval. Fuller highlights that this hands-on support has led to faster treatment starts while ensuring appropriate safety monitoring. He also notes that ongoing pharmacist follow-up has improved adherence to both medications and laboratory requirements. Additionally, pharmacists help bridge gaps in care when providers are unavailable, ensuring patients maintain consistent access to clinical support. Looking ahead, Fuller emphasizes plans to expand CPAs to additional disease states, reinforcing the growing role of pharmacists in improving patient outcomes and care coordination.