Specialty pharmacy has emerged as a critical component of the healthcare system, serving patients with complex and often chronic conditions.

Specialty drugs are high-cost medications used to treat rare, chronic, or complex conditions, such as cancer, multiple sclerosis, and hepatitis C. These drugs are typically administered by injection or infusion and require special handling, monitoring, and support services.

Specialty pharmacy is often seen as a win/win for health systems and patients. Health systems can generate revenue from the sale of specialty drugs and improve patient outcomes by providing comprehensive care and support services. Patients benefit from specialized care, medication management, and access to financial assistance programs that help make these expensive medications more affordable.

However, there are concerns about the sustainability of specialty pharmacy as a business model for health systems. Here are some of the challenges that may threaten the long-term viability of specialty pharmacy:

Rising drug prices

One of the biggest challenges facing specialty pharmacy is the rising cost of drugs. Specialty drugs are some of the most expensive medications on the market, with prices often exceeding $100,000 per year. As drug prices continue to rise, health systems may struggle to afford these medications and maintain their margins on specialty pharmacy services.

Competition

Specialty pharmacy is a highly competitive market, with many players vying for a piece of the pie. Retail pharmacies, mail-order pharmacies, and independent specialty pharmacies all compete with health system specialty pharmacies for market share. This competition can drive down prices and make it difficult for health systems to compete on cost.

Reimbursement

Reimbursement for specialty pharmacy services is complex and varies by payer. Medicare reimburses for some aspects of specialty pharmacy, but reimbursement rates can be low and may not cover the full cost of providing these services. Private payers may also have different reimbursement policies and may require prior authorization for specialty drugs.

Regulatory challenges

Specialty pharmacy is subject to a complex regulatory environment. Health systems must comply with state and federal regulations related to licensure, accreditation, and data privacy. Changes in these regulations can be difficult and costly to implement, particularly for smaller health systems.

Data management

Specialty pharmacy requires robust data management systems to track patient outcomes, medication adherence, and financial performance. Health systems must invest in technology and staff to manage this data effectively. The lack of interoperability between electronic health record systems can also make it difficult to share data with other providers.

So, can specialty pharmacy last? The answer is yes, but it will require health systems to adapt to the changing landscape. Here are some strategies that health systems can use to overcome the challenges facing specialty pharmacy:

Cost management

Health systems must be proactive in managing the cost of specialty drugs. This may include negotiating with drug manufacturers for better prices, managing drug utilization to minimize waste, and partnering with payers to develop value-based reimbursement models.

Differentiation

Health systems can differentiate themselves in the marketplace by offering specialized services that are not available from other providers. This may include personalized medication management services, financial assistance programs, and patient education and support.

Collaboration

Health systems can collaborate with other providers, such as retail pharmacies or community health centers, to share resources and expertise. This can help to reduce costs, improve outcomes, and expand access to specialty pharmacy services.

Technology

Health systems must invest in technology to manage the data associated with specialty pharmacy services. This may include electronic health records, data analytics tools, and patient engagement platforms. Health systems must also prioritize interoperability to ensure that data can be shared effectively across different systems.

Regulatory compliance

Health systems must stay up-to-date on changes to regulatory requirements and ensure that they are in compliance with all relevant regulations.