In a strategic move to enhance its specialty pharmacy services, Walgreens announced on Thursday that it will begin collaborating directly with drugmakers to provide cell and gene therapies to patients in the United States. This endeavor is part of a larger expansion plan for the company’s specialty pharmacy division, aimed at meeting the growing demand for specialized medications and treatments.
The establishment of a new business unit dedicated to the specialty pharmacy segment signifies Walgreens’ commitment to providing comprehensive care for patients with chronic, rare, or complex conditions. This unit, which includes the specialty pharmacy subsidiary AllianceRx, will operate under the umbrella of the core U.S. retail pharmacy division. The move is intended to streamline the delivery of specialized medications that require specialized handling, storage, and distribution.
One of the key highlights of Walgreens’ expansion is its focus on cell and gene therapies, which have gained traction in the healthcare industry due to their potential to revolutionize treatment for various diseases. The company plans to open a state-of-the-art facility in Pittsburgh dedicated to the administration of cell and gene therapies. This facility will serve as a hub for drugmakers and healthcare providers to navigate the complexities of the supply chain and ensure optimal patient care.
The decision to offer cell and gene therapy services comes on the heels of a surge in approvals for these innovative treatments in the U.S. and the European Union. With the FDA approving seven cell and gene therapies last year alone, the market is poised for exponential growth in the coming years. Health experts predict that these therapies could potentially replace traditional lifelong treatments for chronic diseases, offering more targeted and effective solutions.
Walgreens’ newly launched business unit positions the company as a leading provider of specialty pharmacy services, catering to a diverse range of patients. By not being tied to a pharmacy benefit manager, Walgreens has the flexibility to collaborate directly with pharmaceutical manufacturers and develop tailored solutions for patients. The focus on personalized care, including access to clinicians, nutritionists, and nurses, underscores Walgreens’ commitment to ensuring a seamless treatment experience for patients.
With a network of over 300 community-based pharmacies and a team of dedicated specialty pharmacists, Walgreens aims to provide patients with expedited access to specialty drugs. These pharmacies, strategically located near medical facilities, offer a range of services such as injection training and side-effect management. By leveraging its extensive network and expertise, Walgreens is well-positioned to meet the evolving needs of patients requiring specialized care.
As the landscape of healthcare continues to evolve, the demand for specialized medications and treatments is expected to rise. Walgreens’ strategic expansion into cell and gene therapies underscores its commitment to providing innovative solutions to patients with complex medical conditions. By leveraging its network, expertise, and partnerships with drug manufacturers, Walgreens is poised to play a key role in shaping the future of specialty pharmacy services in the U.S.
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