AscellaHealth, headquartered in Berwyn, Pennsylvania, operates as a global leader in Specialty Pharmacy and Healthcare services, with locations across the United States and Europe. The company offers a comprehensive range of technology-enabled, specialized pharmaceutical and medical management services designed to meet the needs of payers, providers, life sciences companies, and patients. Its patient-centric approach, powered by proprietary technology, focuses on delivering innovative programs and services that improve health outcomes and enhance the quality of life for patients with complex, chronic conditions or rare diseases that require specialty medications, including gene and cell therapies.

Dea Belazi, CEO and Co-founder, has been instrumental in the growth and success of AscellaHealth as a recognized global provider of Healthcare & Specialty Pharmacy (S.P.) solutions. With over 200 employees globally, the company provides tailored, technology-driven solutions that enhance medication access and improve patient outcomes, especially for those with rare diseases and specialty conditions. Belazi's extensive experience as a business leader and his background as a registered pharmacist has been vital in designing and implementing its diverse range of services and supporting pharmaceutical manufacturers and other industry stakeholders.

Bill Oldham, Chairman, President, and Co-founder, has utilized his expertise in fintech to drive AscellaHealth's leadership in the Specialty Pharmacy sector. Under his direction, the company has experienced a 1556% revenue increase over four years, driven by both organic growth and strategic acquisitions. Oldham's contributions have been recognized with honors, such as Philadelphia Business Journal's 2022 CFO of the Year and recognition as a Philadelphia Titan 100 in 2023 and 2024.

About AscellaHealth: Better Data for Better Health

AscellaHealth integrates clinical, financial, and technological expertise to streamline access to specialty medications, leading to improved clinical outcomes and an enhanced therapy experience for patients with chronic or complex conditions that require specialty pharmaceuticals, cell, and gene therapies. The company offers a wide range of services, including Pre-Commercialization and Market Access Solutions, Hub and Patient Support, Limited Distribution Drug Strategies, Proprietary Specialty Pharmacy and Infusion Network, Customized Clinical Programs, Technology-based Patient Engagement, Medical and Pharmacy Benefit Management, Drug Rebate Programs, and Real-Time Prescription Data and Analytics, all delivered through its proprietary technology platform.

AscellaHealth's Solutions

Life Sciences

AscellaHealth is the trusted launch partner for life sciences companies working to commercialize therapies for chronic, complex conditions. It offers a full suite of services to support companies from the clinical trial phase through product launches and patient transitions, providing distribution, patient support, and comprehensive data analysis.

Payers & Health Plans

AscellaHealth provides a comprehensive range of services designed to optimize patient outcomes and manage costs for captives, self-insured companies, at-risk providers, PBMs, and regional health plans. Key offerings include specialty and medical cost management, formulary and network design, custom clinical programs, and data analysis.

AscellaHealth's Innovation Is Widely Recognized

AscellaHealth has earned a reputation as a leader in the global specialty pharmacy and healthcare services sectors, receiving numerous awards for its innovative approaches. Among these accolades are the 2024 Top 10 Pharma & Life Science Solutions Providers and recognition by Health Tech Outlook as a top Pharmacy Management Solutions Provider for 2024.

About Dea Belazi

Dea Belazi, co-founder of AscellaHealth, has guided the company to multiple prestigious industry awards, including The Financial Times Fastest Growing Company and Deloitte Fast 500. He is a recognized leader in Philadelphia's business community, with honors such as EY Entrepreneur of The Year® National Finalist and Titan 100. Belazi holds a PharmD from the University of Rhode Island, a Master of Public Health from Johns Hopkins University, and completed a post-doctoral fellowship in health outcomes research at Thomas Jefferson University.

About Bill Oldham

Bill Oldham, co-founder, brings nearly three decades of experience as an entrepreneur, investor, and consultant across various industries, driving AscellaHealth's strategic growth. His expertise in fintech and leadership in building two $100-million companies have played a significant role in shaping its success in the PBM industry. Oldham began his career in financial services on Wall Street and has managed global operations across multiple sectors. He holds an MBA from Manchester Business School, specializing in entrepreneurship and venture finance, and a certification in Blockchain Technologies from MIT Sloan School of Management.

 

 

 

How Technology Is Shaping the Future of Specialty Pharmacies

Published on:10/28/24

The healthcare industry is rapidly evolving, and specialty pharmacies are no exception. As patients increasingly rely on specialty medications for complex conditions such as cancer, autoimmune disorders, and rare diseases, the demand for efficient and personalized pharmacy services has skyrocketed. Technology is playing a pivotal role in reshaping how specialty pharmacies operate, from enhancing patient care to streamlining processes. Here's an in-depth look at how innovations are revolutionizing the specialty pharmacy landscape.

Advanced-Data Analytics for Personalized Patient Care

One of the most significant advancements in specialty pharmacy is the use of advanced data analytics. These technologies enable pharmacies to gather and analyze vast amounts of patient data, ensuring that treatment plans are tailored to individual needs. By leveraging predictive analytics, pharmacists can identify potential issues before they become significant problems, such as adverse drug reactions or non-adherence to prescribed therapies.

For example, data-driven platforms can assess patterns in a patient's health records, predicting which patients are at higher risk of not following their medication regimen. With this information, specialty pharmacies can proactively reach out to these patients, providing reminders and personalized support. The goal is to improve adherence rates and, ultimately, health outcomes.

Telepharmacy and Remote Consultations

Telepharmacy has emerged as a crucial technology in expanding the reach of specialty pharmacy services. With telepharmacy platforms, patients in rural or underserved areas can access expert consultations without the need to travel long distances. This innovation ensures that more people have access to specialized care, regardless of geographic barriers.

Remote consultations also offer the added convenience of discussing medication management, side effects, and other health concerns from the comfort of home. Through secure video calls, pharmacists can provide comprehensive counseling, ensuring that patients fully understand their treatment plans. This technology has proven especially valuable during the COVID-19 pandemic, but its benefits extend far beyond crises.

Mobile Apps for Improved Medication Management

Mobile applications are transforming how patients manage their specialty medications. Specialty pharmacies are developing user-friendly apps that offer features like medication reminders, refill requests, and real-time communication with pharmacists. These apps not only help patients stay on track with their treatments but also provide a seamless way to access vital information.

For individuals managing complex medication regimens, a simple reminder can make a world of difference. Additionally, some apps include features for tracking symptoms and side effects, allowing patients to share this information directly with their healthcare team. By promoting better communication and accountability, mobile technology plays a significant role in enhancing patient care.

Automation and Robotics for Efficiency

Efficiency is critical in specialty pharmacy, where timely delivery of medication can be life-saving. Automation and robotics are being integrated to streamline dispensing and distribution processes. Automated systems can fill prescriptions with incredible accuracy, reducing the risk of human error and speeding up the time it takes for medications to reach patients.

Pharmacies are also using robotic technology for inventory management, ensuring that stock levels are continually optimized. This automation not only improves the operational efficiency of specialty pharmacies but also allows pharmacists to dedicate more time to patient care and less to administrative tasks. The result is a more responsive and patient-focused healthcare environment.

Artificial Intelligence for Enhanced Decision-Making

Artificial intelligence (AI) is another groundbreaking technology that is reshaping specialty pharmacies. AI-powered platforms can analyze clinical data, medical literature, and treatment protocols to offer evidence-based recommendations. These systems assist pharmacists in making informed decisions about which therapies may be most effective for individual patients based on their medical history and genetic profile.

Additionally, AI can be used to predict future healthcare needs and outcomes. For instance, by analyzing trends in patient populations, AI can help specialty pharmacies prepare for shifts in medication demand or identify new opportunities for patient education and support. This predictive capability makes the entire healthcare process more proactive and efficient.

Blockchain for Secure and Transparent Transactions

Data security is a top priority in healthcare, and specialty pharmacies handle a wealth of sensitive information. Blockchain technology offers a way to enhance data security and ensure the transparency of transactions. By creating a decentralized and tamper-proof ledger, blockchain can securely record every step of a medication's journey from the manufacturer to the patient.

This level of transparency helps prevent counterfeit drugs from entering the supply chain and ensures that patients receive authentic medications. Furthermore, blockchain can simplify the process of verifying insurance claims and streamlining payment systems, reducing administrative burdens for both patients and pharmacists.

Smart Packaging and IoT-Connected Devices

Smart packaging and Internet of Things (IoT) technology are adding an extra layer of innovation to specialty pharmacies. Smart pill bottles, for example, can notify patients or caregivers if a dose is missed. These devices can also monitor medication adherence in real time, providing valuable data to healthcare providers.

For patients with complex treatment regimens, such as those requiring multiple daily doses of different medications, innovative packaging can be a game-changer. IoT-enabled devices can also monitor and manage storage conditions for temperature-sensitive drugs, ensuring they remain effective from the point of distribution to administration.

Enhancing Collaboration Between Stakeholders

Technology is enhancing patient care and improving collaboration between different stakeholders, including healthcare providers, payers, and pharmaceutical companies. Electronic health records (EHR) systems and integrated platforms enable seamless data sharing, allowing all parties to stay informed about a patient's treatment journey.

This collaboration is vital for coordinating care, obtaining insurance approvals, and ensuring that patients receive timely access to life-saving medications. With technology bridging gaps between stakeholders, the specialty pharmacy ecosystem becomes more cohesive and responsive to patient needs.

Challenges and Future Prospects

While the technological advancements in specialty pharmacy are impressive, they come with challenges. Issues like data privacy, integration of new systems into existing workflows, and the need for continuous training of healthcare professionals are significant hurdles. However, the potential benefits far outweigh these challenges and ongoing innovation promises to make specialty pharmacies more efficient and patient-centered.

The future of specialty pharmacy is undoubtedly technology-driven. As new advancements continue to emerge, the industry will become more adept at delivering personalized, efficient, and accessible care. The ultimate goal is to improve patient outcomes and ensure that everyone, regardless of location or medical condition, has access to the best possible treatment.

The Benefits of Using a Specialty Pharmacy for Complex Medications

Published on: 10/17/2024

Navigating the complexities of modern healthcare can be daunting, especially for patients managing chronic conditions that require specialized medications. Specialty pharmacies are designed to meet the unique needs of these patients by offering personalized care, expert guidance, and comprehensive support. This article explores the numerous benefits of using a specialty pharmacy for complex medications, highlighting how they enhance patient care and improve health outcomes.

Expertise in Managing Complex Medications

Specialty pharmacies are staffed with pharmacists who possess specialized training and expertise in managing complex medications. These pharmacists are well-versed in the pharmacology of specialty drugs, including their mechanisms of action, side effects, and interactions with other medicines. This specialized knowledge enables them to provide tailored advice and recommendations to patients, ensuring that they receive the most effective treatment for their conditions.

Patients often face challenges when starting new therapies, including understanding how to take their medications, potential side effects, and the importance of adherence. Specialty pharmacists can provide detailed education on these aspects, empowering patients to manage their therapies effectively. This level of expertise is particularly beneficial for patients with chronic diseases such as cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and HIV/AIDS, where treatment regimens can be complex and multifaceted.

Personalized Care and Support

One of the standout features of specialty pharmacies is their commitment to personalized care. Unlike traditional retail pharmacies that may focus primarily on dispensing medications, specialty pharmacies take a holistic approach to patient care. They recognize that each patient’s situation is unique, and they tailor their services accordingly.

Specialty pharmacies often assign dedicated care teams to patients, including pharmacists, nurses, and case managers. These teams work closely with patients to develop individualized care plans that address their specific needs and concerns. This personalized approach fosters a sense of trust and support, helping patients feel more confident in managing their treatment regimens.

Comprehensive Medication Management

When patients start new therapies, specialty pharmacists evaluate their current medications to identify potential interactions, duplications, or contraindications. They also assess the patient's medical history and condition to make informed recommendations. This proactive approach minimizes the risk of adverse effects and ensures that patients receive the most appropriate therapies for their needs.

Furthermore, specialty pharmacies monitor patients' adherence to their treatment regimens through regular follow-ups. By checking in with patients, pharmacists can identify any barriers to adherence and provide solutions to help patients stay on track. This ongoing support is essential for managing complex medications effectively and achieving positive health outcomes.

Assistance with Insurance and Financial Support

Navigating the insurance landscape can be challenging, especially for patients requiring specialty medications that often come with high costs. Specialty pharmacies are equipped to assist patients in understanding their insurance coverage, benefits, and potential out-of-pocket expenses.

Many specialty pharmacies have dedicated staff who specialize in insurance verification and prior authorization processes. They work directly with insurance providers to ensure that patients receive the medications they need in a timely manner. This support can alleviate the stress associated with insurance hurdles and streamline the process of obtaining medications.

Additionally, specialty pharmacies often offer financial assistance programs or connect patients with resources to help offset the costs of their medications. By guiding co-pay assistance programs and patient support programs from pharmaceutical manufacturers, specialty pharmacies help patients access the medicines they need without undue financial burden.

Enhanced Patient Education

Pharmacists at specialty pharmacies take the time to explain how each medication works, the expected outcomes, and any potential side effects. They also provide guidance on proper administration techniques, dosing schedules, and the importance of adherence. This comprehensive education empowers patients to take an active role in their healthcare, leading to improved adherence and better health outcomes.

Moreover, specialty pharmacies may offer educational workshops, online resources, and printed materials that patients can refer to as needed. These resources ensure that patients have access to the information they need to manage their medications effectively.

Coordinated Care with Healthcare Providers

Specialty pharmacists frequently collaborate with physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to ensure that patients receive integrated care. This collaboration is essential when patients are undergoing complex treatment regimens that involve multiple specialists.

Using a specialty pharmacy for complex medications offers numerous benefits that enhance patient care and improve health outcomes. With their expertise in managing complex therapies, commitment to personalized care, comprehensive medication management, and support with insurance and financial matters, specialty pharmacies play a vital role in the healthcare ecosystem.

Patients benefit from enhanced education, coordinated care with healthcare providers, and dedicated support from specialized pharmacy teams. As the landscape of healthcare continues to evolve, specialty pharmacies are well-positioned to meet the unique needs of patients with complex medical conditions, ensuring they receive the highest quality care and support on their health journeys. Embracing the services offered by specialty pharmacies can lead to better health outcomes and a more positive experience for patients managing complex medications.

Revolutionizing Healthcare: The Rise of Specialty Pharmacies

Published on: 10/03/2024

 

In recent years, the healthcare landscape has undergone a dramatic transformation, with one of the most significant developments being the rise of specialty pharmacies. These unique pharmaceutical providers cater to patients with complex, chronic, and rare conditions that require specialized medications and care. Specialty pharmacies are becoming a cornerstone of modern healthcare by delivering high-cost, high-touch medications, offering personalized patient support, and helping manage conditions like cancer, autoimmune disorders, and genetic diseases.

What Are Specialty Pharmacies?

Unlike traditional pharmacies that dispense medications for common ailments, specialty pharmacies focus on drugs that are often more expensive, complex to handle, and sometimes require special storage or administration methods. These medications are used to treat rare, chronic, or difficult-to-manage conditions, often requiring a more individualized approach to treatment. Specialty pharmacies don't just dispense medication; they provide comprehensive care to patients, usually involving coordination with doctors, nurses, and insurance companies.

A primary feature of specialty pharmacies is their ability to offer patient education and clinical support, which can be critical when dealing with medications that have severe side effects or require precise dosage regimens. These pharmacies employ clinical staff, such as pharmacists and nurses, who specialize in managing specific conditions. This focus on patient education and support helps ensure that medications are used safely and effectively.

The Growing Demand for Specialty Pharmacies

The demand for specialty pharmacies is increasing as the prevalence of chronic diseases continues to rise. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 6 in 10 adults in the U.S. live with a chronic disease, and 4 in 10 have two or more. As these numbers grow, so does the need for medications tailored to manage these conditions, many of which are only available through specialty pharmacies.

Moreover, advances in medical science have led to the development of highly specialized treatments, including biologics, gene therapies, and complex oral medications. These treatments often require careful handling and traditional pharmacies are not equipped to meet these needs. Specialty pharmacies are filling this gap, providing a critical link between cutting-edge therapies and the patients who need them.

Benefits of Specialty Pharmacies for Patients

Specialty pharmacies offer numerous advantages for patients, particularly those with complex medical conditions. One key benefit is access to specialized medications that are often unavailable at standard retail pharmacies. These medications can include injectable biologics, oral cancer treatments, and therapies for rare genetic disorders. Patients can rest assured that specialty pharmacies are trained and equipped to store, handle, and deliver these complex treatments properly.

In addition to access to medications, specialty pharmacies provide patients with individualized care plans. These plans often include education about the condition and treatment, training on how to administer medications at home, and regular follow-up to monitor adherence and manage side effects. This personalized approach can significantly improve treatment outcomes by ensuring patients stay on track with their medications and receive timely support when issues arise.

Reducing Barriers to Medication Access

One significant challenge patients face when dealing with specialty medications is the high cost. Specialty drugs are often among the most expensive on the market, and navigating insurance coverage for these treatments can be daunting. Specialty pharmacies usually work closely with insurance providers to streamline the approval process and reduce out-of-pocket costs for patients.

Many specialty pharmacies also offer financial assistance programs to help patients afford their medications. These programs can include co-pay assistance, patient support organizations, and partnerships with pharmaceutical companies that offer discounts or free medications to eligible patients. By reducing financial barriers, specialty pharmacies ensure that more patients can access the medicines they need.

The Role of Technology in Specialty Pharmacies

Technology plays a crucial role in specialty pharmacies' operations. Innovations in health information technology (HIT), electronic health records (EHR), and telehealth have enabled these pharmacies to provide a higher level of service to patients. Specialty pharmacies often use sophisticated systems to track medication adherence, manage inventory, and communicate with patients and healthcare providers in real time.

Telehealth services offered by specialty pharmacies can include virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and video tutorials for medication administration. This technology-driven approach makes it easier for patients to receive care from the comfort of their homes, improving convenience and adherence to treatment plans. The integration of technology allows specialty pharmacies to offer a seamless and patient-centered healthcare experience.

Navigating Regulatory Challenges

While the rise of specialty pharmacies has brought numerous benefits to patients and healthcare systems, it has also presented some regulatory challenges. Specialty pharmacies are subject to stringent oversight, including federal and state regulations regarding the dispensing, handling, and storage of medications. Additionally, they must navigate the complex world of insurance billing and reimbursement, which can vary significantly depending on the patient's condition and the specific medication.

To address these challenges, specialty pharmacies must remain up-to-date on changes in healthcare laws and regulations. Many pharmacies employ compliance teams to ensure they are meeting all legal and regulatory requirements. By doing so, they can maintain high standards of patient safety and continue to offer cutting-edge treatments without interruptions.

The Future of Specialty Pharmacies

The future of specialty pharmacies is bright as advances in biotechnology, gene therapy, and personalized medicine continue to shape the healthcare industry. As new treatments emerge, specialty pharmacies will be at the forefront of delivering these therapies to patients. Their role will expand as more healthcare providers rely on them to manage the growing number of complex treatments available.

In the coming years, we expect to see continued integration of digital health tools, such as wearable devices and mobile apps, into the specialty pharmacy model. These innovations will further enhance patient care by allowing pharmacists and healthcare providers to monitor patient's progress in real-time and intervene when necessary. As the healthcare landscape evolves, specialty pharmacies will remain an essential component of delivering high-quality, personalized care to patients with the most complex needs.

Specialty pharmacies are revolutionizing healthcare by providing specialized medications, personalized patient care, and reducing barriers to accessing complex therapies. With the continued rise in chronic conditions and the development of advanced treatments, their role will only grow more critical. By embracing technology, navigating regulatory challenges, and focusing on patient-centric care, specialty pharmacies are positioned to play a vital role in the future of healthcare, ensuring that patients receive the treatments they need to lead healthier lives.

To know more about AscellaHealth, click the links below: 

https://about.me/ascellahealth

https://slides.com/ascellahealth