CVS/specialty named Arthritis Foundation specialty pharmacy partner
WOONSOCKET, R.I. - CVS Health announced Friday, in advance of World Arthritis Day on Oct. 12, the expansion of a national partnership with the Arthritis Foundation to help advance arthritis advocacy, research and patient support. As part of the partnership, CVS/specialty, the specialty pharmacy of CVS Health, will be designated an Arthritis Foundation 'Partner for Better Living and be its first and only specialty pharmacy partner.
The distinction recognizes CVS/specialty's commitment to helping people with arthritis and joint pain, and builds on the longstanding relationship between the two organizations. CVS/pharmacy is currently the exclusive retail drug store partner of the Arthritis Foundation.
"Our expanded partnership with the Arthritis Foundation will allow us to extend our purpose of helping people on their path to better health by supporting an organization dedicated to advancing education, access to care, advancements in science and community connections for people with arthritis," stated Alan Lotvin, EVP specialty pharmacy for CVS/caremark, the pharmacy benefits manager of CVS Health. "CVS/specialty is a different kind of pharmacy with services that offer convenience, care and support for our patients with complex conditions, like rheumatoid arthritis, so they have the freedom to focus on every part of their lives, not just their condition."
As an Arthritis Foundation 'Partner for Better Living,' CVS/specialty is helping people with certain forms of arthritis take control of managing their complex condition by supporting them with specialized tools, personalized care and convenient access to medications. The unique model of CVS/specialty is focused on making it easier for patients with a range of complex conditions to start and stay on their prescriptions.
"We're pleased to expand the important work we're doing with CVS Health as the Arthritis Foundation continues to help people living with arthritis conquer every day battles," commented Ann Palmer, president and CEO Arthritis Foundation. "We know that access to information and treatment is crucial for people living with arthritis, and with CVS/specialty as a 'Partner for Better Living,' we are now able to better support the millions of Americans with arthritis, including the 1.5 million with rheumatoid arthritis requiring specialty medicines."
CVS/specialty offers the support of a Care Team comprised of pharmacists and nurses who specialize in chronic conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and insurance specialists who work to find assistance for those with a financial hardship. Patients also have access to personalized specialty infusion care conveniently provided in the home or at an alternative infusion suite. In addition, CVS/specialty simplifies getting started on therapy by offering patients the choice of pickup at their local CVS/pharmacy, or delivery to their home, office or other location. Patients have access to online tools and a free mobile app where they can order refills, track deliveries and get reminders to help them stay on track.