Experience of physicians, pharmacists, and pharm techs prescribing and dispensing OAMs with a limited a Limited Drug Network within MIPs in the Athena Oncology Network

How LDN is Shaping Oncology Care: Survey Results on the role of the MIP and Case Insights on ALUNBRIG® and FRUZAQLA®   

This white paper presents findings from a targeted survey conducted across the Athena Oncology Network, featuring perspectives from 15 physicians, 15 pharmacists, and 5 pharmacy technicians. Participants shared their experiences with Medication In-Office Dispensing Programs (MIPs), their views on Low Dispensing Network (LDN) models, and the impact these models have on patient care.

The paper also explores how LDN implementation influenced the utilization and outcomes of two specific oral anticancer medications (OAMs): ALUNBRIG® (brigatinib) and FRUZAQLA® (fruquintinib). Key points include:  

• Medically Integrated Pharmacies is an integrated oral anticancer medication pharmacy that is integrated within the oncology care team. This alignment allows for a holistic view of a patient’s care that leads to increased patient satisfaction, patient adherence, and care plan adherence among other benefits. 

• Manufacturers’ distribution models often dictate whether MIPs can dispense OAM prescriptions or must pass the prescription on to an external mail-order specialty pharmacy for insurance to cover the prescription. 

• Limited distribution networks (LDNs) were originally intended to improve medication access and oversight, but when PBM-SPs dominate these networks, it can disrupt continuity of care and delay therapy initiation. 

• With an increasing number of oral anticancer medications being developed, the structure of these distribution networks plays and increasingly important role in the quality and coordination of cancer care. 

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