What are patient support programs?

January 10, 2018

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With specialty pharmaceuticals, the steps required to initiate and continue treatment are far more complex than with traditional medications. Patient support programs (PSPs) help  patients move through these steps.

A PSP may perform some or all of the following services, among others:

  • Educate the patient on the disease and the drug – including how and when to take the medication.

  • Liaise with the patient’s insurer to obtain reimbursement.

  • Set up a treatment schedule and reminds patients of appointments.

  • Provide treatment updates to physicians.

  • Deliver medication to its destination (e.g. pharmacy, clinic, hospital, or patient’s home).

Some pharmaceutical companies use third-party organizations, called specialty service providers, to run  part or all of their PSP services.

This is not to say that a pharma company can purchase a PSP “off the shelf”  from these providers. Every PSP is unique – because every drug is unique. An effective PSP reflects the specific nature of the medication and the needs of the patients who need it.

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What are specialty pharmaceuticals?