Prescription for Better Access (Mark Hansan and Dr. Scott Howell)
Explore every episode of Prescription for Better Access
| Pub. Date | Title | Duration | |
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| 17 Oct 2023 | Episode 11: Obesity Week 2023: An Interview with Dr. Angela Fitch, President, Obesity Medicine Association | 00:55:24 | |
Patients are experiencing remarkable weight loss thanks to the new generation of GLP-1’s and the downstream health benefits may go well beyond diabetes. In spite of the dramatic results for patients, insurance plans have started to put up more barriers and are even denying the drugs on a more consistent basis. For this special Obesity Week 2023 episode, we interview Dr. Angela Fitch, President of the Obesity Medicine Association, a faculty member at Harvard Medical School and most recently a Co-Founder and Chief Medical Officer for knownwell, a new obesity-focused primary care company. Show Notes: Dr. Angela Fitch, President, OMA Dr. Fitch’s patient care center: Knownwell Seeking treatment for obesity? Find a clinician here or here. The Treat and Reduce Obesity Act of 2023 The drugs discussed in this episode: An article on the use of “bootlegged” Semaglitude: Demand Rising for 'Bootlegged' Weight-Loss Drug | MedPage Today Questions or comments? Email us at comments@prescriptionforbetteraccess.com. Find us on social media! We’re on X as @RX4BetterAccess, LinkedIn and YouTube. | |||
| 18 Apr 2023 | Understanding ICER: An interview with founder Dr. Steven Pearson | 00:47:16 | |
In this episode, we interview Dr. Steven Pearson, the founder and President of the Institute for Clinical and Economic Review (ICER). Over the past 16 years, ICER has evolved from a Harvard research program to the independent authority on cost-effectiveness and value of new drugs. Dr. Pearson has been an advocate of “Fair Pricing for Fair Access” and in January 2023, ICER published their 2nd Annual Assessment of Barriers to Fair Access Within US Commercial Insurance Prescription Drug Coverage. Dr. Steven Pearson, Founder, President, Institute for Clinical and Economic Review (ICER)
Barriers to Fair Access Report Like this episode and want to hear more? Check out our past episodes here! Do you have a prescription for better access? Share your ideas with us at comments@prescriptionforbetteraccess.com Follow us on social media! We’re on YouTube, LinkedIn and @RX4BetterAccess (X) | |||
| 09 May 2023 | PBM Perspective: An Interview with Industry Veteran Mesfin Tegenu | 00:46:25 | |
Pharmacy benefit managers (PBM’s) manage the drug benefits for millions of Americans and as a result, they can have a positive or negative impact on patient access. Mesfin Tegenu, an early pioneer in the PBM industry, is interviewed by Scott and Mark and offers his candid perspective on what PBM’s do, their impact on stakeholders and how the PBM industry could evolve over the next few years to better serve patients, employers, health plans and government payers. Mesfin Tegenu, CEO, Chairman, RxParadigm PBM (pharmacy benefit management) PMS (pharmacy management services) Vanquishing Hepatitis C: A Remarkable Success Story Like this episode and want to here more? Check out our past episodes here! Do you have a prescription for better access? Share your ideas with us at comments@prescriptionforbetteraccess.com
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| 16 Nov 2023 | Episode 12: How Alternative Funding Programs Exploit Patient Assistance Programs | 00:40:00 | |
In this episode, we investigate the rise of Alternative Funding Programs (AFPs) that bypass coverage for vital specialty drugs. Kyle Crowell, an expert consultant on AFPs, discusses how payers avoid their responsibility for costs by collaborating with third-party companies to exclude specific drug coverage and directing patients towards manufacturer-sponsored patient assistance programs (PAPs). Patient advocate, Amy Niles from the PAN Foundation, describes how the mounting tension caused by AFPs are leaving patients to navigate the uncertain waters of their medication coverage and access, potentially risking their health and even their lives. Kyle Crowell, Principal (Partner) at ZS Associates Amy Niles, Chief Advocacy and Engagement Officer, PAN Foundation Patient Assistance programs (PAPs) Alternative funding programs (AFPs) “Pharma faces tough choices as alternative funding programs exploit charitable giving” “AbbVie sues a behind-the-scenes company for exploiting its patient assistance program” Carl Schmidt from the HIV and Hepatitis Policy Institute Copay Accumulator Adjustment Programs Lawsuit Like this episode and want to hear more? Listen to past episodes here! Do you have a prescription for better access? Share your comments and episode ideas with us at:
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| 31 Jan 2023 | 2023: Looking Ahead in Patient Access | 00:51:21 | |
In this episode Mark and Scott interview Dave Moules, former Pfizer SVP, Payer and Channel Access to look at the year ahead in patient access. David Moules, former Pfizer SVP, Payer and Channel Access Insulin Affordability and the Inflation Reduction Act Do you have a prescription for better access? Share your ideas with us at comments@prescriptionforbetteraccess.com Follow us on social media! We’re on YouTube, LinkedIn and @RX4BetterAccess (X) | |||
| 15 Feb 2023 | Patient Voices: The Value and Challenges of Access | 00:46:56 | |
In this episode, co-hosts Mark Hansan and Dr. Scott Howell interview two patients who share their personal journeys, how medicine has helped them, their challenges related to access, and how both are making a difference for patients. Donna Cryer, JD, CEO, Founder of the Global Liver Institute Reid Jewitt Smith, Ph.D., Patient Advocate and Career Educator Medications discussed in this episode: Decoupling: What is it, and how could it reshape American health care? Do you have a prescription for better access? Share your ideas and show topics with us at comments@prescriptionforbetteraccess.com Follow us on social media! We’re on YouTube, LinkedIn and @RX4BetterAccess (X) | |||
| 22 Dec 2023 | Episode 13: The Sustainability of Innovation: An Interview with Rachel King, CEO, BIO | 00:35:22 | |
In our 2023 podcasts, there have been a series of revelations about the complexity and unintended consequences related to drug access and affordability. This episode explores the essential underlying tension between the notion that affordability and access are deteriorating while science is advancing so rapidly. We interview Rachel King, CEO of Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO), to explore the priorities for the industry and how the challenges related to patient access and affordability could jeopardize innovation for patients today and in the future. Rachel King, CEO, BIO (Biotechnology Innovation Organization) John Crowley, Executive Chairman, Amicus Therapeutics PBM (pharmacy benefit management) Therapies mentioned in this episode: Email us at comments@prescriptionforbetteraccess.com. | |||
| 07 Mar 2023 | Breaking Down Barriers: An Interview with Peyton Howell | 00:39:26 | |
This episode features an interview with Peyton Howell discussing the evolution of patient access over the past three decades, the creation of the hub industry, and the continuing challenges faced by pharma companies and service providers in supporting patient access to medications. Peyton Howell, Chief Operating and Growth Officer, Parexel How Automation Is Transforming Healthcare Jobs Do you have a prescription for better access? Share your ideas and show topics with us at comments@prescriptionforbetteraccess.com Follow us on social media! We’re on YouTube, LinkedIn and @RX4BetterAccess (X) | |||
| 20 Aug 2024 | Evolution of PBM's | 00:45:25 | |
In this episode, we explore the evolution and future of the Pharmacy Benefit Management (PBM) industry with insights from two seasoned pharma managed care executives. We discuss the early role of PBMs, their acquisition by pharmaceutical companies, and subsequent industry consolidation. We examine how vertical integration of the PBMs transformed their business model, including the restricted formularies that gave rise to rebates. We also address evolving PBM-manufacturer relationships, the effects of public scrutiny, and predictions for key trends. Join us for a comprehensive look at the past, present, and future of PBMs, focusing on the changes needed to better serve patients. Steve Stefano, Managing Director, ReprizioRx Steve.Stefano@repriziorx.com Bill Leonard, Managing Director, ReprizioRX wjl@repriziorx.com Medicare Catastrophic Coverage Act of 1988 Group Purchasing Organizations (GPOs)
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| 30 Jan 2024 | 2024 Policy Preview: An Interview with Dr. Mark McClellan | 00:49:31 | |
Scott and Mark welcome Dr. Mark McClellan, a distinguished health policy expert who has served as the Commissioner of the FDA and the Administrator of CMS, to look ahead at the major policy activities in 2024. They discuss how the government's role as regulator and purchaser of drugs will influence the drug industry and the patient's ability to access and afford medicines this year. They also discuss the challenges and opportunities for improving public health and the emerging role of artificial intelligence. Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) The Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program (RWHAP) Part B FDA's Office of Regulatory Affairs Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Per Member Per Month (PMPM) billing Questions or comments? | |||
| 04 Jun 2024 | Interviews from Asembia’s AXS24 Summit, Part 2 | 00:33:45 | |
This is the second of two episodes dedicated to Asembia’s AXS24 Summit, where we were honored to be a media partner. In this episode, we learn from Sarah Butler, Chief Commercial Officer of ADVI Health and Lindsay Greenleaf, JD, MBA, Head of Federal and State Policy for ADVI Health how the 2024 election will impact patient access and affordability. Umar Afridi, Founder and CEO of Foundation Health, summarizes his session, From Opaque to Transparent: Transforming the Way We Pay for Drugs. Finally, we get a few minutes with Joe Boswell, the President of ACCESS Forum, leading an effort to create a network for market access professionals. ADVI: | |||
| 24 May 2024 | Interviews from Asembia's AXS24 Summit, Part 1 of 2 | 00:35:40 | |
Asembia’s AXS24 Summit, a pinnacle of specialty drug and healthcare discussions, concluded earlier this month. We are thrilled to share that our podcast was selected as a media partner for this esteemed event. This is the first of two episodes dedicated to AXS24, where Scott and Mark had the opportunity to interview several key speakers and attendees. In this episode, we bring you the insights of Melissa Paige, a seasoned healthcare professional and President of the National Association of Medication Access & Patient Advocacy, who led a session on the Patient Financial Impact of IRA. We also present the perspectives of Renee Rayburg, RPh., VP, Clinical Strategy, Pharmaceutical Strategy Group and Morgan Lee, PhD, MPH, CPH, Senior Director, Research & Strategy, PSG, who are renowned for their study and session on Viewpoints in Specialty Drug Benefit Design. Melissa Paige, President, (NAMAPA) | |||
| 12 Sep 2024 | 22. Honoring the Work of Healthcare Advocates | 00:44:51 | |
In this episode, we explore the evolving role of healthcare and patient advocates and how this profession has become an essential part of the healthcare system. We begin by defining what a healthcare advocate is and tracing the development of the profession over the years. Key milestones are discussed, such as establishing codes of ethics, training, and certification processes. We also share real-world examples of how advocates help patients navigate the complexities of healthcare, making a measurable impact on patient outcomes. The discussion covers the scale of advocacy in the U.S., examining the roles of professional advocates compared to family members and volunteers. We also address how advocates are helping patients overcome barriers to accessing and affording medicines. Finally, we look to the future of advocacy, discussing potential healthcare reforms, the impact of technology, and practical advice for patients seeking an advocate in today's challenging healthcare environment. Rachel Westlake, Managing Director, Coalition of Health Care Advocacy Organizations Questions or comments? | |||
| 25 Apr 2024 | Understanding 340B Programs: An Interview with Antonio Ciaccia, CEO, 46brooklyn Research | 00:46:45 | |
In this episode, we explore the 340B Drug Pricing Program, an essential yet complex component of the American drug supply landscape that aims to enable healthcare entities to offer more affordable medication to underserved populations. We interview Antonio Ciaccia, a drug pricing and 340B expert who provides an in-depth look at how the program works, its financial incentives, and how stakeholders have exploited this well-intentioned program, all to the detriment of patients.
Medical terminology referenced in this episode: Questions or comments? | |||
| 01 Jun 2023 | Tackling Copay Accumulators and Maximizers | 00:43:36 | |
In this podcast, we interview a consultant and a leading patient advocate to better understand and explore the challenges of copay accumulator and maximizer programs for specialty drugs. We discuss the difference between the two programs and their impact on the various stakeholders including the overwhelming burden placed on patients. We also discuss the legal issues and potential policy changes that could eliminate these programs or minimize their impact on patients. Ultimately, our goal is to shed light on this important issue and identify strategies for improving access to critical medications for patients who need them. Carl Schmid, Executive Director, HIV And Hepatitis Policy Institute Lauren Crawford Shaver, Senior Managing Director, FTI Consulting HIV And Hepatitis Policy Institute President's Advisory Council on HIV/AIDS National Association of Insurance Commissioners. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Like this episode and want to here more? Check out our past episodes here! Do you have a prescription for better access? Share your ideas with us at comments@prescriptionforbetteraccess.com
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| 27 Feb 2024 | Biosimilar's Role in Improving Patient Access | 00:42:34 | |
Biosimilars are entering the market at their fastest pace ever. In this episode, we interview a renowned health economist and an expert consultant in biosimilar distribution and patient support to explore the complex landscape of biosimilars, including examining the hurdles and breakthroughs in achieving acceptance by payers and providers and how best to improve patient access and affordability in a market dominated by established brands. The Biologics Price Competition and Innovation Act of 2009 PBMs (Pharmacy Benefit Managers) "brown bagging and white bagging" electronic health record (EHR) system Questions or comments? | |||
| 04 Dec 2024 | Cell and Gene Therapy Access Challenges | 00:53:06 | |
In our second of three episodes in conjunction with members of ACCESS Forum, we engage with leading experts to uncover the multifaceted challenges of access and affordability in cell and gene therapies. Our conversation investigates how these treatments' innovative yet complex landscape leads to challenging regulatory pathways, pricing models, and reimbursement strategies. Alicia Silver, MPP, Head of Cell and Gene Therapy, ADVI Health Medical terminology referenced in this episode:
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| 22 Oct 2024 | Global vs. US Drug Pricing and Market Access | 00:54:25 | |
In this episode, we sit down with leading Market Access experts and members of ACCESS Forum to compare and contrast the drug pricing and access systems worldwide and the US. Our discussion delves into the distinct approaches taken by government vs. private markets, examining how regulatory environments, pricing controls, and reimbursement processes impact patient access to innovative therapies. We explore the challenges each approach faces, from cost pressures to affordability and access, and how they balance the interests of patients, governments, and pharmaceutical companies. Join us for a deep dive into how the global healthcare landscape is evolving and what lessons can be learned. Nikos Maniadakis, Ph.D., Professor, Health Management & Policy, University of West Attica Questions or comments? | |||
| 06 Jul 2023 | Washington's Influence on Patient Access | 00:53:53 | |
This episode delves into the intricate web of Washington's influence on patient access, exploring the multifaceted factors that shape healthcare legislation, policies and their impact on patients, other key stakeholders and drug pricing. With an insightful interview from one of Washington’s top healthcare experts, listeners gain insight to the complexities of legislation, such as the Affordable Care Act and Inflation Reduction Act. This is certainly the “wonkiest” podcast episode as we attempt to provide an understanding of the current landscape of patient access and look ahead to how Washington's decisions will shape the future of patient access. Lance Grady, Executive Vice President, Avalere The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) CMS Like this episode and want to here more? Check out our past episodes here! Do you have a prescription for better access? Share your ideas with us at comments@prescriptionforbetteraccess.com
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| 28 Mar 2024 | Interview with Victor Bulto, President, US, Novartis | 00:43:35 | |
In this important podcast episode, we interview Victor Bulto, President, US for Novartis, to discuss the company's efforts to develop groundbreaking treatments while ensuring accessibility and affordability for patients. We delve into how the pharmaceutical industry navigates numerous post-FDA approval barriers to launch new drugs and the importance of market access, patient support services, and a commitment by manufacturers to provide patient assistance and other support for patients. Victor Bulto, President, Novartis Institute for Clinical and Economic Review (ICER) American Heart Association (AHA) Pharmacy Benefit Manager (PBM) Medical terminology referenced in this episode: Cell therapy: CART-T Small interfering RNAs: siRNAs Refractory autoimmune diseases Questions or comments? | |||
| 28 Mar 2023 | Understanding Drug Pricing: An Interview with Health Economist James Robinson | 00:46:31 | |
In this foundational episode about drug pricing, we interview Dr. Jamie Robinson, the Leonard D. Schaeffer Professor of Health Economics, and Director of the Berkeley Center for Health Technology at the University of California, Berkeley. Dr. Robinson is the author of 3 books and 150 peer-reviewed articles on health economics and drug pricing. Clarification on term “drug pricing”: Nomenclature for this episode refers to the price of drugs from wholesale acquisition or list price. Other prices include the price of patient cost sharing or hospital/physician administered medication. PBMs (Pharmacy Benefit Managers) Do you have a prescription for better access? Share your ideas and show topics with us at comments@prescriptionforbetteraccess.com Follow us on social media! We’re on YouTube, LinkedIn and @RX4BetterAccess (X) | |||
| 29 Sep 2023 | Episode 10: Empowering Employers to Improve Patient Access | 00:41:45 | |
Employers are discovering this fall that they are expected to shoulder a 6% health insurance increase for 2024. What can employers do to combat the accelerating cost of health insurance without jeopardizing access to vital drugs? In this podcast episode, we talk with Matt Ohrt, a former HR executive who achieved a 20% reduction in health insurance costs for his employer. Matt has a new book and new company to help other self-funded employers strategically lower their sponsored health insurance costs for 2024 while ensuring employees have optimal access to care and treatments. This is an essential listen for employers seeking to balance cost-efficiency with the provision of comprehensive, high-quality healthcare benefits to their employees. Matt Ohrt, Co-founder, Chief Healthcare Officer, Self Fund Health How Does Direct Primary Care Work? Matt Ohrt’s book: “Save Your Company: Don't Feed the Beast: The Employer Healthcare Success Formula” Like this episode and want to here more? Check out our past episodes here! Do you have a prescription for better access? Share your ideas with us at comments@prescriptionforbetteraccess.com
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| 23 Jan 2023 | Podcast Preview: Getting to Know Your Co-hosts | 00:16:12 | |
In this preview episode, you will have the opportunity to get to know co-hosts Mark Hansan and Dr. Scott Howell and why they have come together to launch the interview-focused podcast to help improve patient access to medicines. Mark Hansan, Co-founder and Executive Chairman, CareMetx, LLC Dr. Scott Howell, Healthcare and biopharma teacher, researcher, and advisor Prescription For Better Access website Do you have a prescription for better access? Share your ideas with us at comments@prescriptionforbetteraccess.com Follow us on social media! We’re on YouTube, LinkedIn and @RX4BetterAccess (X) | |||
| 18 Dec 2024 | 2025 Outlook with Stacie Dusetzina, Ph.D., Vanderbilt University | 00:47:41 | |
In this episode, we sit down with Stacie Dusetzina, Ph.D., a leading health economist from Vanderbilt University Medical Center to discuss the critical healthcare and policy trends shaping 2025. From shifts in federal leadership to the evolving impact of the Inflation Reduction Act, our guest provides expert insights on what to expect in drug pricing, health insurance, and patient access in the coming year. We explore how the public and private sectors are addressing affordability challenges and highlight innovative approaches to improve access to essential medications. With a focus on the future, this conversation offers a thoughtful outlook on the policies and market dynamics set to redefine healthcare in 2025. Stacie Dusetzina, Ph.D., Vanderbilt University Vanderbilt University Medical Center A primer on copay accumulators, copay maximizers, and alternative funding programs CMS
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| 10 Aug 2023 | Physician Offices: Fighting for Patient Access | 00:49:21 | |
Many of the most beneficial therapies are prescribed or administered within physician offices yet these providers face a multitude of challenges attempting to get authorization and coverage. In this podcast, we interview a practice manager who is not only on the frontlines of the battle to help patients but is also an award-winning advocate for access. This episode will explore the barriers faced by providers and their offices and what can be done to win the day-to-day battles with insurance companies and PBM’s so patients can access and remain on treatment. Julie Baak, Practice Manager, Arthritis Center Growing Shortage of Rheumatologists “Very Concerning” Like this episode and want to here more? Check out our past episodes here! Do you have a prescription for better access? Share your ideas with us at comments@prescriptionforbetteraccess.com
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| 16 Jul 2024 | How Access Challenges Impact the Drug Development Pipeline | 00:49:01 | |
In this episode, we dive into the pharmaceutical industry's research and drug development side and the real threat that today’s access and affordability challenges and policies pose to innovation. While innovation often starts in universities with government support, biotech, and pharma companies take on the tough, costly job of clinical trials, development, and approval of new drugs. Investment dollars are limited, only the most promising projects get funded, with an expectation there will be a return. However, our current drug payment process and policies like the IRA have added new considerations for investors, risking fewer new drugs being developed. Without changes, patients could face the closing of our nation's medicine cabinet, with fewer new treatments available. This would be an outcome that would be catastrophic for all of us. Erin Mistry, EVP and Chief Commercial Officer, Cormedix, Inc.
Research and development (R&D) AMR (antimicrobial resistance) Novo Nordisk Bets Up to $600 Million on Ozempic 2.0. Here's Why the Stock Is a Buy. Genzyme (Now Sanofi) IRA (Inflation Reduction Act)
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