Institutional Insights on CDK4/6 Inhibitor Adherence in Breast Cancer
Aimee Keegan, PharmD, BCOP, discusses how her institution optimizes patient adherence to CDK4/6 inhibitors, highlighting resources including their in-house specialty pharmacy.
EP: 1.Optimizing Adherence to CDK4/6 Inhibitors in Metastatic Breast Cancer
EP: 2.Institutional Insights on CDK4/6 Inhibitor Adherence in Breast Cancer
EP: 3.CDK4/6 Inhibitors as First-Line Options in Metastatic Breast Cancer
EP: 4.Treatment Algorithms for Early and Metastatic Breast Cancer
EP: 5.NATALEE: Ribociclib and Endocrine Therapy in HR+/HER2- Early Breast Cancer
This is a synopsis of a Peer Exchange series featuring Aimee Keegan, PharmD, BCOP, of City of Hope.
Aimee Keegan, PharmD, BCOP, discusses the various resources available at City of Hope to help ensure patient adherence to medications with significant toxicities, such as CDK4/6 inhibitors. One of these resources is an online portal that allows patients to communicate with their care team at any time, particularly regarding side effects or medication issues, instead of waiting for their next scheduled appointment.
Dr. Keegan also mentions a 24/7 triage line staffed by nurses, which patients can call for urgent side effects or issues, receiving immediate advice or guidance from the care team. Additionally, City of Hope has established its own specialty pharmacy, which has greatly improved patient adherence. The specialty pharmacists and technicians call every patient who fills their specialty medications with them about a week before their refill is due, not only to arrange medication delivery but also to interview each patient.
During these calls, the specialty pharmacy team asks patients about missed doses, new medications, changes in medical conditions, and herbal supplementation. If any side effects are reported, the pharmacist can provide counseling and supportive care options to help the patient overcome the issue and continue therapy. If missed medications or intolerable side effects are reported, the specialty pharmacy team sends a message to the clinic's care team to address the issue promptly.
Furthermore, the specialty pharmacy assists patients with financial assistance, such as copay cards for commercial patients, foundation assistance, and City of Hope's patient assistance program, which offers free medication to patients who cannot afford it. Dr. Keegan emphasizes that providing access to medications and supporting side effect management through these resources has significantly improved patient adherence to CDK4/6 inhibitors.
*Video synopsis is AI-generated and reviewed by Pharmacy Times editorial staff.
