Exclusive Life Science Feature
From Obscurity
To Innovation Engine –
The Evolution Of
Specialty Pharma
BY ROB WRIGHT
BY ROB WRIGHT
T
wenty years ago when I first started in the life
sciences industry, specialty products for rare
diseases had the feel of being a company's
charitable contribution to society. I recall sitting
in a new-hire training orientation listening to the
instructor inform us how the profits from our cashcow products supported the R&D; and distribution
of the specialty products designed to help the
unfortunate few suffering from rare diseases. How
times have changed! Today, specialty drugs represent
the fastest-growing sector of pharmacy spending.
A recent Express Scripts Drug Trend Report has
specialty drugs at an annual cost of more than $290
per member per year (PMPY) in 2012, up from
$170 PMPY the year prior. By 2018, it is estimated
specialty drug spend will surpass traditional drug
spend and PMPY will reach $845. In just three
November 2013
LifeScienceLeader.com
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