A specialized pharmacy that focuses on the dispensing and management of high-cost and complex medications, often used to treat rare or chronic conditions.

Biologics:

Medications derived from living organisms or their components, often used in specialty pharmacy for conditions such as autoimmune diseases and certain cancers.

Orphan Drugs:

Medications developed to treat rare diseases or conditions, typically with a smaller patient population, and often dispensed by specialty pharmacies.

Patient Assistance Programs (PAPs):

Programs offered by specialty pharmacies or pharmaceutical companies to help patients access expensive medications by providing financial assistance or co-pay support.

Prior Authorization:

A process where healthcare providers must obtain approval from insurance companies before prescribing certain specialty medications, ensuring appropriate use and coverage.

Therapeutic Interchange:

The practice within specialty pharmacy of switching a patient’s medication to an alternative with similar therapeutic effects, often driven by cost considerations or insurance coverage.

Clinical Management:

The comprehensive oversight and coordination of a patient’s medication therapy by specialty pharmacy professionals, including monitoring for effectiveness and managing side effects.

Adherence Counseling:

Educational support provided by specialty pharmacies to help patients understand and adhere to their prescribed medication regimens, improving treatment outcomes.

Temperature-Sensitive Medications:

Specialty medications that require specific temperature control during storage and transportation to maintain their stability and effectiveness.

Hub Services:

Centralized support services provided by specialty pharmacies, including benefits verification, financial assistance coordination, and medication delivery management.