- As Ig therapy expands into homes and alternate sites, providers need specialized training and standards to deliver it safely.
- Step therapy requirements can delay access to subcutaneous immunoglobulin (SCIG) when a patient’s needs call for that route of treatment.
- Closer dialogue between payers and providers can help align coverage policies with the realities of Ig care.
- Patient satisfaction scores may overlook adverse reactions that affect daily life after an infusion.
- AI can help with data analysis and administrative work, but coverage decisions require meaningful review of each patient’s clinical needs.
Welcome to Beyond the Drip, where we dive into the fascinating world of Infusion Pharmacy, from Home Infusion to Ambulatory Infusion Centers. Expect topical conversations on the latest happenings in Infusion from industry leaders who will bring you the latest news, trends and innovations in the infusion industry, as well as expert insights and stories to keep you informed and inspired.
Demand for immunoglobulin (Ig) therapy continues to grow, and more patients are receiving treatment at home and in alternate care settings. That growth creates opportunities to expand access, but it also raises questions about whether provider expertise, payer policies and measures of patient outcomes are keeping pace.
In Episode 20 of Beyond the Drip, co-hosts, Jon Love, Pamela McIntyre and Brian O'Sullivan welcome back Dr. Luba Sobolevsky, President and CEO of the Immunoglobulin National Society (IgNS), for a conversation about the state of Ig therapy. Dr. Sobolevsky explains why providers need specialized training to manage its clinical complexity and how coverage requirements can interfere with treatment decisions.
The discussion also looks beyond patient satisfaction scores. Luba shares how IgNS’s Patient 360 work is examining adverse reactions and other outcomes to better understand what patients experience throughout therapy.
Key Takeaways
- As Ig therapy expands into homes and alternate sites, providers need specialized training and standards to deliver it safely.
- Step therapy requirements can delay access to subcutaneous immunoglobulin (SCIG) when a patient’s needs call for that route of treatment.
- Closer dialogue between payers and providers can help align coverage policies with the realities of Ig care.
- Patient satisfaction scores may overlook adverse reactions that affect daily life after an infusion.
- AI can help with data analysis and administrative work, but coverage decisions require meaningful review of each patient’s clinical needs.
Dr. Sobolevsky also previews the 15th IgNS National Conference, which will bring clinicians, providers, payers and other stakeholders together to discuss the challenges shaping Ig therapy. Throughout the episode, her message is clear: expanding access must go hand in hand with the expertise and evidence needed to improve patient care.
Listen to the full episode of Beyond the Drip to hear Luba’s insights on the future of Ig therapy wherever you get your podcasts.
Guest Speaker
Dr. Luba Sobolevsky, Pharm.D., IgCP®, President & CEO at Immunoglobulin National Society
Dr. Luba Sobolevsky is the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Immunoglobulin National Society (IgNS), the central, standards-setting healthcare organization in the field of Ig therapy and biologics. Dr. Sobolevsky has over 25 years of diverse leadership experience across the healthcare field, including clinical practice, education, and pharmaceutical industry. She oversees IgNS’ strategic initiatives and the development of comprehensive programs and resources that promote best clinical practices and optimal patient outcomes. She is responsible for expanding and improving interdisciplinary and industry-wide collaboration and alliances. Dr. Sobolevsky leads IgNS’ Patient 360 division, dedicated to patient advocacy, education and outcomes research. She has been actively engaged in research and publication in areas of optimizing immunoglobulin practice, patient experience, health equity, healthcare team competencies, and the improvement of screening and diagnosis of rare diseases. Dr. Sobolevsky holds a PharmD degree from the University of Southern California and a BA from the University of California, Los Angeles.
Beyond the Drip Co-hosts
Paula Roth, EVP of Pharmacy Services at Prochant
As Executive Vice President of Pharmacy Operations at Prochant, Paula leads an expert team focused on enhancing the home-based care industry through innovative technology and streamlined processes. With more than 20 years of experience in revenue cycle management for alternate sites of care, Paula leverages technology and teams to ensure clients achieve or exceed their financial targets.
Jon Love, President & Chief Growth Officer at MedEdge Solutions
Jon Love joins MedEdge with leadership experience in the infusion and specialty pharmacy industries. He has previously served in sales at WellSky, chief operating officer at Rock-Pond Solutions, and senior VP of pharmacy services at Prochant.
Pamela McIntyre, Founder and Owner of Expert Infusion Nurse Consulting
With 40 years of experience in infusion nursing, Pam founded Expert Infusion Nurse Consulting to advance excellence in infusion and mentor other infusion professionals. Her certifications include CRNI, IgCN, OCN, and VA-BC, and she has an immersive background in home infusion and ambulatory infusion in the fields of acute and chronic care, including oncology nursing.
Brandon Carpenter, President of MedEdge Solutions
Brandon Carpenter is the owner and founder of MedEdge Solutions. With more than 12 years of experience in pharmacy solutions, process improvement, and data analytics, Brandon takes an active role in each of their projects. Prior to forming MedEdge, Brandon was the Director of Products and Professional Services at Rock-Pond Solutions where he worked with over 250 pharmacies nationwide to solve problems ranging from system integrations, financial reporting, 340B, Limited Drug Distribution, and software management. He is a graduate of the University of Central Arkansas where he received his bachelor’s in business & information systems, as well as his Master of Business Administration.
Brian O’Sullivan, President of The O’Sullivan Group
Brian O’Sullivan formed The O’Sullivan Group, Inc. in February 1999 to serve health care providers with managed care and provider business development services. Over the years, The O’Sullivan Group has also been sought out by Medicare Advantage and Managed Medicaid plans to assist with network development needs. His vision was to bring real world know-how by offering the same level of service and expertise for both large and small companies that are enjoyed by major Fortune 1000 organizations.
