The Changing Landscape of Kidney Care: A Joint Venture and the Impact of Drugmakers on Pharmacy Sales

The Changing Landscape of Kidney Care: A Joint Venture and the Impact of Drugmakers on Pharmacy Sales

Evergreen Nephrology and Hypertension Nephrology Associates, P.C. Partner for Personalized Kidney Care

Evergreen Nephrology is proud to announce its new partnership with Hypertension Nephrology Associates, P.C., aiming to revolutionize kidney care across the nation. With a network of over 700 provider partners spanning 17 states, Evergreen is determined to establish personalized, physician-led care as the standard in this field.

The joint venture between Evergreen Nephrology and Hypertension Nephrology Associates, P.C. signifies a significant step forward in the pursuit of improved kidney care. By combining their expertise and resources, these two organizations aim to provide patients with comprehensive, individualized treatment plans that prioritize their well-being. This partnership reflects the growing recognition of the importance of personalized care in managing kidney-related conditions.

Drugmakers' Restrictions on 340B Pharmacy Sales and Its Impact on Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) Profits

The profitability of pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) is under threat due to drugmakers imposing limitations on discounted prescription sales within the 340B drug discount program. PBMs rely on directing patients to pharmacies affiliated with their parent companies, while also charging providers referral and dispensing fees for fulfilling their patients' prescriptions. However, the decision by drugmakers to restrict sales to select pharmacies participating in the 340B program could have significant implications for the profits of these PBMs.

The 340B drug discount program, established by Congress in 1992, was designed to provide hospitals caring for low-income and uninsured patients with substantial drug discounts. The intention was for these hospitals to reinvest the savings into charity care. Many healthcare providers, such as cancer centers, children's hospitals, and rural facilities, often collaborate with external pharmacies to fill 340B prescriptions for their patients. Currently, around 2,600 hospitals actively participate in this program.

Connecting the Dots: The Intersection of Personalized Kidney Care and the 340B Program

While seemingly unrelated, the joint venture between Evergreen Nephrology and Hypertension Nephrology Associates, P.C., and the limitations imposed by drugmakers on the 340B program share common ground. Both initiatives strive to improve patient outcomes and enhance the quality of care provided.

By partnering with Hypertension Nephrology Associates, P.C., Evergreen Nephrology aims to enhance their personalized approach to kidney care. This collaboration recognizes that individualized treatment plans are crucial in managing kidney-related conditions effectively. Similarly, the 340B program seeks to support hospitals in providing accessible and affordable care to low-income and uninsured patients. The restrictions imposed on pharmacy sales within this program, however, present challenges for healthcare providers and patients alike.

Actionable Advice for Improved Kidney Care and Navigating the 340B Program

• 1. Embrace personalized care: Patients should actively seek out healthcare providers who prioritize personalized treatment plans. By engaging in open and honest conversations with their nephrologists, patients can ensure that their unique needs and preferences are taken into account, leading to more effective management of their kidney conditions.

• 2. Stay informed about the 340B program: For healthcare providers and patients relying on the 340B program, staying up-to-date with the latest developments is essential. By understanding the potential impact of drugmakers' limitations on pharmacy sales, providers can proactively explore alternative solutions and advocate for the best interests of their patients.

• 3. Advocate for policy changes: Patients, healthcare providers, and advocacy organizations should collaborate to advocate for policy changes that support affordable and accessible kidney care. By raising awareness, engaging with policymakers, and supporting initiatives that address the limitations of the 340B program, stakeholders can work towards a more equitable healthcare system.

Conclusion

The joint venture between Evergreen Nephrology and Hypertension Nephrology Associates, P.C. highlights the growing importance of personalized care in kidney management. Simultaneously, the limitations imposed by drugmakers on the 340B program raise concerns about the financial viability of pharmacy benefit managers. By recognizing the common goal of improving patient outcomes, stakeholders in the kidney care landscape can work together to navigate these challenges and ensure that personalized, accessible care remains at the forefront of the industry.