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Adding a Medicare Part E benefit to pay for cell and gene therapies

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Adding a Medicare Part E benefit to pay for cell and gene therapies

Despite their curative potential, the extraordinarily high price tags of cell and gene therapies have raised concerns about the U.S. and European healthcare systems' financial sustainability. This is especially true for recently approved treatments indicated for relatively sizable sub-populations, including multiple myeloma, beta thalassemia, sickle cell disease and different types of hemophilia.

To address these challenges, researchers have suggested creating a universal benefit in the U.S., named “Part E,” specifically designed for coverage of cell and gene therapies. Part E would technically fall under Medicare, but it would not have age- or disease-specific eligibility restrictions. In other words, it would be open to all who for whom the therapies are indicated and who may not be eligible for the Medicaid-specific model the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services are implementing (for information on this model, see previous microblog).

Upon the Food and Drug Administration approval of an eligible cell or gene therapy, Part E coverage and pricing would be determined centrally by CMS, whose mandate it would be to consider whether such products are deemed “reasonable and necessary” to treat the affected population, as CMS already  does when it conducts National Coverage Determinations. Part E would be financed by an earmarked tax.

Any decision to cover a product would include outcomes-based agreements, in which the net price would depend on a product's performance over time. Alternatively, CMS could negotiate subscription-like payment models as some Medicaid programs have done in the hepatitis C space. Here, CMS would be responsible for a fixed payment regardless of the number of patients treated or the volume of a drug or therapy dispensed. In other words, unlike traditional payment arrangements, payment would not scale with volume.

In negotiating pricing and reimbursement for cell and gene therapies, CMS would establish a national risk pool across the Medicare, commercial and (part of the) Medicaid markets. In turn, this would decrease the level of financial risk borne in the system.

The Lyfegen Library offers you access to one central resource with more than 4,500 public price-based agreements and 20 innovative pricing models (including subscription-like payment arrangements) which can form the basis for outcomes-based agreements to be signed under an eventual Medicare Part E. This invaluable resource has all the market research in one place to gather intelligence on novel ways to establish innovative payment systems that are uniquely designed to suit business needs of key stakeholders such as drug manufacturers and health insurers.

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A novel Medicaid model to pay for latest gene therapies

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A novel Medicaid model to pay for latest gene therapies

Newly approved gene therapies for hemophilia A and B, beta thalassemia and sickle cell disease come with multimillion dollar price tags that could bankrupt financially strapped state Medicaid programs. In many instances, the majority of patients affected by these diseases rely on Medicaid for healthcare coverage.

Last month, the federal government unveiled a novel “access model” - the Cell and Gene Therapy Access Model- designed to mitigate the costs state Medicaid programs incur when they pay for these potentially curative treatments and allow for patient access. The announcement by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services marks a significant step towards addressing the access issue.

Similar to what is currently happening with a select group of prescription drugs under the Inflation Reduction Act, CMS plans to negotiate prices of these gene therapies with drug makers at the national level for all state Medicaid that decide to participate in the model. By facilitating access to potentially life-changing treatments and supporting outcomes-based agreements with manufacturers, the model has the potential to improve health outcomes and alleviate financial burdens on state Medicaid agencies.

At first, CMS intends to negotiate pricing and rebates with the drug manufacturers Vertex and bluebird bio over the next few months on behalf of state Medicaid agencies that voluntarily choose to join the program.

Bluebird bio says it has already established an outcomes-based agreement for its SCD therapy, Lyfgenia, with commercial insurers. The product is listed at $3.1 million. The company did not divulge further details. Vertex, which priced its SCD therapy, Casgevy, at $2.2 million, has declined to discuss its plans.

The fact sheet that CMS provides contains few details as to what kinds of pricing arrangements would be put in place for products such as Lyfgenia and Casgevy. Prior to deciding to participate in the model and allow CMS to negotiate prices on their behalf, Medicaid agency directors will want to know specifically what kinds of outcomes-based agreements CMS can turn to.

The Lyfegen Model & Agreements Library offers CMS and state Medicaid agencies access to one central resource with more than 4,000 public pricing agreements and 20 innovative pricing models, including outcomes-based agreements. This invaluable resource has all the market research in one place for stakeholders to gather intelligence on novel ways to establish innovative payment models that are uniquely designed to suit the needs of Medicaid payers, CMS, and drug makers alike. To further enhance the practicality of these models, our value-based contracting platform mitigates the high costs and administrative challenges involved in managing these contracts. It equips CMS, the States, and Pharma with a streamlined, cost-effective means to implement outcome-based agreements efficiently.

Medicaid directors will also seek information on methods of evidence gathering, outcomes measurement, the length of time needed to test durability of gene therapies and how this information will be provided to CMS, presumably via a patient registry. Lyfegen offers solutions to identify the right drug pricing agreements in which evidence generation and the use of patient registries are key.

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Value-based insurance design is ready for primetime

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Value-based insurance design is ready for primetime

Ostensibly, patients who have “skin in the game” through cost-sharing motivates them to be good stewards of their pharmacy benefit. But in the present system in the U.S., cost-sharing is usually not outcomes-based. It’s simply a way for insurers to defray costs onto patients, even when it poses barriers to access.

On the other hand, value-based insurance design is an increasingly popular method used by payers in which prescription drugs considered of high value have correspondingly low or no patient cost-sharing and few if any other utilization restrictions. By contrast, treatments deemed of low value are assigned higher patient cost-sharing and more conditions of reimbursement.

Optimally, this leads to greater patient adherence to high-value drugs and better health outcomes.

This method is used in the commercial sector, though until now relatively sparingly. One of the more interesting recent initiatives is the Medicare Advantage Value-Based Insurance Design Model. Remarkably, the pilot is attracting many participants. Sixty-nine Medicare Advantage plans with nearly 9 million Medicare beneficiaries are signed up, an increase of almost 50% from 2023.

Aligning patient and payer financial incentives around the value of healthcare technologies and services implies the need to gather evidence and measure health outcomes. Broader implementation of value-based insurance design will entail the expanded use of incentive-based drug formulary models in which the most cost-effective pharmaceuticals have the lowest cost-sharing and the fewest reimbursement restrictions.

The Lyfegen Library offers you access to one central resource with more than 3,500 public pricing agreements and 20 innovative pricing models, including value-based insurance arrangements. This invaluable resource has all the market research in one place to gather intelligence on novel ways to establish innovative payment models that are uniquely designed to suit your business needs.

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Re-dosable gene therapy Vyjuvek’s initially successful launch offers lessons

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Re-dosable gene therapy Vyjuvek’s initially successful launch offers lessons

The promise of gene therapy is to cure diseases associated with faulty or missing genes. Yet the high upfront costs, uncertainty surrounding long-term durability, and adverse events in some patients have often impeded market uptake.

So when the investment firm Cantor Fitzgerald said it expects a “very strong product launch” of a recently approved gene therapy made by Krystal Biotech, the topical gel Vyjuvek indicated for a rare skin disease called dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa, it caught people’s attention.

Successful commercialization of gene therapies has remained largely elusive, in part due to access hurdles erected by insurers. The current payer system is not particularly well suited to accommodate single-dose therapies for which long-term treatment efficacy, risk-benefit ratios and safety remain uncertain.

But Vyjuvek (beremagen geperparvec) is different. Unlike most current gene therapies on the market today, it’s not meant to be a one-off cure. Vyjuvek is the first and only Food and Drug Administration-approved topical gene therapy that can be re-dosed.

Listed at $630,500 annually per patient—$485,000 after mandatory government discounts in Medicaid—it is certainly expensive. But it is not nearly as high-priced as other gene therapies that have been approved in recent years.

The manufacturer has successfully pursued coverage agreements with payers in the commercial and public spaces. Further, Krystal is using an innovative payment model with its payer clients. The company is offering them a price cap of $900,000 annually per patient to account for patients who may require large numbers of vials of treatment.

The Lyfegen Library offers you access to one central resource with 3000+ public pricing agreements and 20 innovative pricing models—this invaluable resource has all the market research in one place to gather intelligence on innovative ways to establish innovative payment models, such as the one in place for Vyjuvek, that are uniquely designed to suit your business needs.

Learn more: https://www.lyfegen.com/products/model-and-agreement-library

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Sickle cell disease gene therapies are here, but how is society going to pay for them?

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Sickle cell disease gene therapies are here, but how is society going to pay for them?

On November 16th, the UK’s MHRA approved Casgevy (exagamglogene autotemcel) or exa-cel for sickle cell disease and beta thalassemia. And this month the FDA is expected to license exa-cel and lovo-cel (lovotibeglogene autotemcel), both of which attack SCD at its genetic root.

For these advanced gene therapies the challenge of access through Medicaid and other programs looms large. Medicaid will be the predominant payer for the 25,000 patients who could be eligible for these gene therapies. And it must figure out a budget-conscious way to pay for these potential one-time “cures.”

In April, the Institute for Clinical and Economic Review issued a draft report on the cost-effectiveness of exa-cel and lovo-cel. ICER noted that the proportion of patients achieving treatment success was 97% for both therapies. Even at the placeholder price of nearly $2 million per dose, ICER says both treatments could be cost-effective. But ICER cautioned that a prerequisite is their durability over time and the establishment of value-based pricing agreements between payers and manufacturers.

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services is therefore pursuing a two-pronged approach to value-based pricing and reimbursement of cell and gene therapies such as exa-cel and lovo-cel.

First, a proposed rule would require manufacturers with the highest drug Medicaid spending per claim to turn over confidential information justifying their prices. CMS would post this information online, seek public comment, and compel manufacturers to “address” their pricing in a public forum.

Second, CMS is planning on “testing of payment models” based on outcomes-based agreements on behalf of all 50 state Medicaid programs, rather than having them done separately by individual states.

Innovative payment models such as these require the ability to analyze patient outcomes and negotiate prices based on those outcomes. Digital platforms, such as those offered by Lyfegen, are designed to implement value-based contracting models. This investment can yield operational efficiency, recovery of missed revenues, and provide critical access for patients to life-saving drug therapies.

Lyfegen offers solutions to identify the right drug pricing agreements, simulate and understand the financial impacts of those agreements, and automate the execution and adjudication of them—thus delivering a measurable reduction in administrative effort in rebate management and optimization.

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The importance of working with Johnson & Johnson: An interview with our Lyfegen CEO & Founder, Girisha Fernando

The news are out: we are immensely proud to be partnering with Johnson & Johnson to advance value-based healthcare and help...

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The importance of working with Johnson & Johnson: An interview with our Lyfegen CEO & Founder, Girisha Fernando

The news are out: we are immensely proud to be partnering with Johnson & Johnson to advance value-based healthcare and help patients around the world. We dived into a conversation with our CEO Girisha Fernando on why this partnership holds so much value for Lyfegen.


Girisha, why was the partnership with Johnson & Johnson such an important milestone for Lyfegen?

Girisha Fernando: Johnson & Johnson and Lyfegen share the same vision of sustainable & a value-based healthcare environment. Our goal is to help patients to receive the healthcare treatments they need and with this partnership, Lyfegen is proud to have been a key enabler for Johnson & Johnson and hospitals to deliver better health outcomes for patients.

How can this partnership be a blueprint for future collaborations?

Girisha Fernando: The increasing demand for healthcare measured against the limited financial resources is forcing the healthcare system to deliver innovative technologies to patients at sustainable costs. This can be done with value-based healthcare approaches and value-based agreements. The partnership between hospitals, Johnson & Johnson and Lyfegen shows how healthcare providers, manufacturers and an innovative tech company can deliver more value to patients whilst making efficient use of limited resources.

What would you suggest healthcare payers and hospitals to do if they are considering to implement value-based healthcare agreements with manufacturers?

Girisha Fernando: I believe it is important to focus on how to deliver better patient outcomes at lower cost. Value-based healthcare agreements can be used as a value-maximising method. It allows payers and hospitals to measure health outcomes and the adjacent cost to achieve these outcomes. Thus, hospitals can pivot on focusing their resources on value-adding healthcare treatments whilst addressing financial risk and uncertainty. It will take initial & minimal investment, but the return on investing in value-based healthcare and technology will be in the form of more value for money and better quality and patient health outcomes.

Why is Lyfegen the right platform for this?

Girisha Fernando: With over 120 value-based healthcare agreements running on the Lyfegen platform, we provide the necessary expertise, knowledge and technical competence to our customers. With these capabilities, we break down the complexity of implementing and managing value-based healthcare agreements. And lastly, we ensure that our customers can improve patient health outcomes by using value-based agreements at scale, efficiently.


Learn more about our platform by booking a demo today:


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The news are out: we are immensely proud to be partnering with Johnson & Johnson to advance value-based healthcare and help...

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The Health and Social Consortium of Catalonia to Develop New Value-Based Purchasing Models Incorporating New Tools for Negotiation with the Pharmaceutical Industry

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The Health and Social Consortium of Catalonia to Develop New Value-Based Purchasing Models Incorporating New Tools for Negotiation with the Pharmaceutical Industry

Barcelona, April 9, 2024
The Consortium of Health and Social Services of Catalonia has begun to work on value-based drug purchasing models by incorporating new tools for information management and negotiation with the pharmaceutical industry. This is an innovative project in collaboration with the health technology brand Lyfegen, which has developed the largest platform for managing public agreements in the world and a drug contracting simulator that allows for better deals by maximizing value in the purchasing process.

The goal of this innovative initiative is to increase the processes of value-based drug procurement, allowing CSC-affiliated health centers to focus on the evaluation of the clinical, economic, and social benefits that the drug can provide in relation to its cost.

For the design of these new procurement models, the "Lyfegen Agreements Library" database and the “Lyfegen Drug Contracting Simulator” were used, and work was done on the automation of administrative tasks and on improving interoperability among hospitals and health administrations. These tools allow the CSC to model various agreements and improve the drug management process in the central contracting office. The Health and Social Consortium of Catalonia thus becomes the first organization in Spain to incorporate these tools.

"From the Consortium, we are convinced that access to innovation and the sustainability of the health system relies on reaching innovative management agreements with pharmaceutical laboratories," says Josep Maria Guiu, director of the Pharmacy and Medication Area of the CSC. "The alliance with Lyfegen gives us a tool to work in this direction and to advance in the establishment of satisfactory agreements that facilitate access to innovation and contribute to the sustainability of the health system."

Girisha Fernando, CEO of Lyfegen, comments that "We are proud to help the Consortium lead access to innovation to improve patient care in Catalonia." "By using our advanced solutions, more than 100 health organizations throughout the region can research, model, and efficiently manage agreements, as well as value-based drug procurement," he adds.

“This allows professionals to really focus on what matters most: patient care.”

The collaboration with Lyfegen reflects the commitment of the Health and Social Consortium of Catalonia to value-based drug procurement and to access to pharmacological innovation, as well as the will to continue working for the implementation of solutions that ensure equity and sustainability of the health system.

The total contracting volume of the CSC, which acts as the purchasing center for the subsidized health sector of Catalonia, was 1.497 billion euros in 2023. Of this amount, 90% corresponded to medicines and 10% to sanitary products.

In recent years, the Consortium of Health and Social Services of Catalonia has incorporated social value aspects into the purchasing processes. For example, it has committed to ensuring that 100% of its drug and sanitary product tenders incorporate environmental clauses by 2024.

About Lyfegen

Lyfegen is an independent provider of rebate management software designed for the healthcare industry. Lyfegen solutions are used by health insurances, governments, hospital payers, and pharmaceutical companies around the globe to dramatically reduce the administrative burden of managing complex drug pricing agreements and to optimize rebates and get better value from those agreements. Lyfegen maintains the world’s largest digital repository of innovative drug pricing models and public agreements and offers access to a robust drug pricing simulator designed to dynamically simulate complex drug pricing scenarios to understand full financial impact. Headquartered in Basel, Switzerland, the company was founded in 2018 and has a market presence in Europe, North America, and the Middle East. Learn more at Lyfegen.com.

About CONSORCI

The Consortium of Health and Social of Catalonia (CSC) is a public entity with a local and associative basis, founded in 1983, which has its origin in the municipal movement. The CSC, a reference to the sector and with a clear vocation for service, has as a mission: to promote excellent and sustainable health and social models to improve the quality of life of the people, offering services of high added value to its partners. CSC wants to be the main reference for knowledge and capacity for cooperation, influence and anticipation in the face of the new challenges of the health and social system. All CSC associates are public or private non-profit bodies. For more information, please visit https://www.consorci.org/el-csc/en_index

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Lyfegen erhält 8 Millionen Dollar, um Arzneimittelpreise zu senken und Patienten den Zugang zu lebensrettenden Medikamenten zu erleichtern

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Lyfegen erhält 8 Millionen Dollar, um Arzneimittelpreise zu senken und Patienten den Zugang zu lebensrettenden Medikamenten zu erleichtern

Die Vertragssoftware von Lyfegen wird von Kostenträgern im Gesundheitswesen und führenden Pharmaunternehmen eingesetzt, darunter Novartis, Roche, MSD, Bristol Myers Squibb (BMS) und Johnson & Johnson.

 

NEW YORK/BASEL, 20. September 2022 /PRNewswire/ – Lyfegen, ein globales Healthtech-SaaS-Unternehmen, das den Übergang von volume-zu value-based Healthcare für hochpreisige Medikamente vorantreibt, gab heute eine überzeichnete Serie-A-Finanzierungsrunde über 8 Millionen Dollar bekannt, die vom Investmentfonds aMoon mit zusätzlicher Beteiligung von APEX Ventures und weiteren Investoren angeführt wurde.

Derzeit sind weniger als 2 % der Krankenversicherten, die Spezialarzneimittel benötigen, für 51 % der Arzneimittelausgaben verantwortlich. Die Kosten für Spezialarzneimittel in den USA laufen aus dem Ruder: Sie stiegen allein von 2020 bis 2021 um 12 % – und es gibt keine Anzeichen für eine Verlangsamung, denn es kommen immer mehr Zell- und Gentherapien auf den Markt. Infolgedessen wird Value-Based Contracting, die Nutzung wertorientierter Verträge, für die Kostenträger des Gesundheitswesens zu der entscheidenden Alternative, um nur für Medikamente zu zahlen, die tatsächlich wirken.

Bis 2025 werden die Nettoausgaben für Medikamente in den USA voraussichtlich bis zu 400 Milliarden US-Dollar betragen. Darüber hinaus kommen regelmässig neue Medikamente auf den Markt. Es fällt Pharmaunternehmen immer schwerer, sich mit den Kostenträgern auf kommerzielle Bedingungen zu einigen. Damit steigt die Gefahr, dass Patienten keinen Zugang zu lebensrettenden Therapien erhalten. Lyfegen hilft Regulierungsbehörden, Pharmaunternehmen und Kostenträgern bei der Einführung wertorientierter Zahlungsmodelle, indem sie den gesamten Prozess der Datenerfassung, Anonymisierung und Vertragsverhandlungen für alle Parteien digitalisiert. So kann die Preisgestaltung und Kostenerstattung für Medikamente vereinfacht werden.

„Wir freuen uns, diese Finanzierungsrunde bekannt zu geben und dieses Vertrauensvotum von aMoon, APEX und weiteren Investoren zu haben, die den Wandel im Gesundheitswesen verstehen und unser Bestreben um den Ausbau der Lyfegen-Plattform unterstützen", sagte Girisha Fernando, CEO und Gründer von Lyfegen. „Wir arbeiten derzeit mit führenden staatlichen Kostenträgern, Krankenversicherungen in Europa, den USA und dem Nahen Osten sowie mit einigen der weltweit grössten Pharmaunternehmen zusammen. Wir beabsichtigen nun, unsere Präsenz in den USA weiter auszubauen und Partnerschaften mit privaten und öffentlichen Krankenversicherungen einzugehen. Die Abkehr von der volumenbasierten Gesundheitsversorgung war noch nie so notwendig wie heute, und wir freuen uns, dass wir eine wichtige Rolle bei der Umstellung auf Value-Based Contracting spielen können."

„Lyfegen adressiert einen bedeutenden Marktbedarf in einer Branche, die sich dramatisch und schnell verändert, und wir sind begeistert, dass wir mit unserer Investition dazu beitragen können, ihre Anstrengungen zu unterstützen", erläuterte Moshic Mor, General Partner bei aMoon und ehemaliger Partner bei Greylock and Greylock Israel. „In Zeiten von Budgetdruck und Rezession im Gesundheitswesen braucht die Welt Lösungen wie die von Lyfegen mehr denn je. Wir sind stolz mit diesem erfahrenen Führungsteam zusammenzuarbeiten, das weiterhin den Zugang zu neuen Medikamenten verbessert, während es die wertorientierte Gesundheitsversorgung immer mehr zum Mainstream macht."

 

Informationen zu Lyfegen

Lyfegen ist ein unabhängiges, globales Softwareanalyseunternehmen, das eine wert- und ergebnisbasierte Vertragsplattform für Krankenversicherungen, Pharma- und Medizintechnikunternehmen sowie Krankenhäuser auf der ganzen Welt bietet. Die sichere Plattform identifiziert und operationalisiert wertbasierte Zahlungsmodelle kostengünstig und macht diese mit einer Vielzahl von realen Daten und maschinellem Lernen skalierbar. Mit der zum Patent angemeldeten Plattform von Lyfegen können Krankenversicherungen und Krankenhäuser eine wertorientierte Gesundheitsversorgung einführen und skalieren und so den Zugang zu Behandlungen, die Gesundheitsergebnisse der Patienten und die Kostenersparnis verbessern.

Lyfegen hat seinen Sitz in den USA und der Schweiz und wurde von Persönlichkeiten mit jahrzehntelanger Erfahrung im Gesundheitswesen, in der Pharmaindustrie und im Technologiebereich gegründet, um den Übergang von der volumenbasierten und kostenpflichtigen Gesundheitsversorgung zur wertorientierten Gesundheitsversorgung zu ermöglichen. Weitere Informationen finden Sie auf www.lyfegen.com.

Verwandte Links:

https://lyfegen.com/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lyfegenhealth

Pressekontakt: yael@gkpr.com

Ansprechpartner für Investoren: investors@lyfegen.com

Read the Exclusive article with AXIOS

Read the Press Release on PR Newswire

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Lyfegen und die Schweizerische Krankenversicherung EGK-Gesundheitskasse kooperieren bei der Senkung der Preise für teure Medikamente

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Lyfegen und die Schweizerische Krankenversicherung EGK-Gesundheitskasse kooperieren bei der Senkung der Preise für teure Medikamente

EGK nutzt die Lyfegen-Plattform, um komplexe Preismodelle für die On- und Off-Label-Verwendung von mehr als 80 Medikamenten zu verwalten.

 

Basel, Schweiz - 29. November 2022 - Lyfegen, ein globales Healthtech-SaaS-Unternehmen, das den weltweiten Übergang von einer volumen- zu einer wertbasierten (value-based) Gesundheitsversorgung für hochpreisige Arzneimittel vorantreibt, gab heute bekannt, dass die EGK-Gesundheitskasse sich seinem Portfolio von Versicherungspartnern anschliesst, um alle ihre Verträge zur wertbasierten Preisgestaltung für hochpreisige Arzneimittel effizient, sicher und transparent auszuführen.

Die Schweiz, mit den vierthöchsten Arzneimittelausgaben pro Kopf, gab in den ersten neun Monaten des Jahres 2022 8 Milliarden Franken (8,1 Milliarden Euro) für Medikamente aus, die für bestimmte Krankheiten verschrieben wurden. Um die hohen Arzneimittelausgaben zu bekämpfen, hat die Schweiz in den letzten fünf Jahren eine wachsende Zahl von Rabattmodellen für den On- und Off-Label-Einsatz von Medikamenten eingeführt. Die Komplexität der Preismodelle führt jedoch dazu, dass die Versicherer Millionenbeträge für die Überwachung und Beurteilung der Preismodelle ausgeben, was zu entgangenen Rabatten in zwei- bis dreistelliger Millionenhöhe führt.

Mit der Software von Lyfegen kann die EGK mit minimalem Aufwand und maximaler Transparenz Rabatte aus 141 Medikamentenpreismodellen von 32 Herstellern identifizieren und einfordern. Dazu gehören Fälle von seltenen oder chronischen Krankheiten, vielversprechende Therapien, die ausserhalb der zugelassenen Indikation eingesetzt werden können, oder neue Medikamente, die in der Schweiz noch nicht erhältlich oder zugelassen sind. Die Plattform von Lyfegen adressiert die Bedürfnisse der Schweizer Krankenversicherer nach Kosteneffizienz und Digitalisierung. Sie hilft, bestehende Komplexitäten im System zu lösen und wirkt hohen Versicherungsprämien entgegen.

„Wir freuen uns, die EGK zu unterstützen und eine aktive Rolle bei der Bewältigung der zunehmenden Komplexität von Medikamentenpreismodellen zu übernehmen, um den nachhaltigen Zugang zu innovativen Medikamenten und Therapien in der Schweiz zu unterstützen“ sagte Nico Mros, CXO und Mitgründer von Lyfegen. „Indem wir uns darauf konzentrierten, die Implementierung der Plattform so einfach wie möglich zu gestalten und auf die EGK einzugehen, konnten wir schnell Ergebnisse präsentieren und die Zusammenarbeit erfolgreich starten!“

"Mit der Lyfegen-Plattform baut die EGK ihren Fokus auf Nachhaltigkeit und Effizienz zum Wohle ihrer Versicherten weiter aus", sagt Carolina Pirelli, Leiterin Leistungen und stv. Geschäftsleiterin bei der EGK. "Die immer grösser werdende Zahl von Preismodellen für Medikamente stellt die Versicherer vor Herausforderungen in Bezug auf Ressourcen und Prozesse. Mit der automatisierten Verarbeitung von Preismodellen über die Lyfegen-Plattform können wir unsere aktuellen Anforderungen perfekt erfüllen und sehen uns mit der Flexibilität, dem Fokus und dem Verständnis von Lyfegen in guten Händen."

 

Über Lyfegen

Lyfegen ist ein globales SaaS-Analyseunternehmen im Gesundheitsbereich, das eine Plattform für wert- und ergebnisbasierte Verträge für Medikamente, Therapien und Medizingeräte anbietet.

Krankenversicherungen, Pharma- und Medizintechnikunternehmen sowie Spitäler nutzen die sichere Plattform für Tausende von Preismodellen in der Schweiz, Europa, dem Nahen Osten und Nordamerika. Die Lyfegen Plattform unterstützt die Verhandlungen und ermöglicht die automatisierte Ausführung von wertbasierten Preismodellen durch die Analyse von real-world Daten durch intelligente, lernfähige Algorithmen.

Weltweit renommierte Krankenversicherungen, Spitäler, Pharma- und Medizintechnikunternehmen haben die zum Patent angemeldete Plattform von Lyfegen bereits implementiert, um wertbasierte Preismodelle für Medikamente, Therapien und Medizingeräte zu skalieren und damit den Zugang zu Behandlungen sowie Therapieergebnisse für Patienten zu verbessern.

Lyfegen wurde von Personen mit jahrzehntelanger Erfahrung in den Bereichen Gesundheitswesen, Pharma und Technologie gegründet und leistet Pionierarbeit bei der Umstellung von der volumenbasierten und kostenpflichtigen Gesundheitsversorgung auf die wertbasierten Gesundheitsversorgung. Weitere Informationen finden Sie unter www.lyfegen.com.

Über die EGK-Gesundheitskasse

Die EGK-Gesundheitskasse ist ein KMU-Krankenversicherer mit Sitz in Laufen (BL). Die EGK-Gruppe umfasst die EGK Grundversicherungen AG (Grundversicherung nach KVG), die EGK Privatversicherungen AG (Zusatzversicherung nach VVG) sowie die EGK Services AG (Verwaltung). Sie versichert schweizweit rund 100'000 Personen in der Grundversicherung, 80% von diesen verfügen auch über eine EGK-Zusatzversicherung.

Natürlichkeit und Nachhaltigkeit gehören zur Werthaltung der EGK. Sie gilt als Pionierin beim uneingeschränkten Zugang zu exzellenter Komplementärmedizin. Sie lanciert und unterstützt in der ganzen Schweiz Aktivitäten zur natürlichen Stärkung der Gesundheit.

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A message from our CEO as Lyfegen Raises $8 Million to Drive Down Drug Costs and Help Patients Access Life-Saving Medications

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A message from our CEO as Lyfegen Raises $8 Million to Drive Down Drug Costs and Help Patients Access Life-Saving Medications

 

In light of today’s anticipated press release and exclusive article with AXIOS, we would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to our investors, customers, and team for sharing our vision to transform the healthcare system, helping patients to receive the healthcare treatments they need. The closing of our oversubscribed series A, led by aMoon Fund with additional participation from APEX Ventures and others, marks an important milestone.

Skyrocketing drug prices–especially for high-cost specialty drugs like cell and gene therapies–are accelerating the demand for value-based drug pricing. The move away from volume-based healthcare has never been more needed, and we are happy to play an important role in the shift to a value-based future.

With the $8 million in funding, we will expand our presence in Europe and the U.S. to increase drug affordability for more customers and, more importantly, more patients.

Together, we save lives.

 

Read the official Press Release

Read the Exclusive article with AXIOS



[caption id="attachment_3253" align="aligncenter" width="200"]

Girisha Fernando
CEO & Founder[/caption]

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Transforming Healthcare Access in Canada: Ina Hasani’s Vision at Lyfegen

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Transforming Healthcare Access in Canada: Ina Hasani’s Vision at Lyfegen

We are thrilled to welcome Ina Hasani to our team at Lyfegen as Director of Sales & Business Development for Canada. Ina brings nearly a decade of experience in the life sciences sector, specializing in healthcare strategy, market access, and health economics. We sat down with Ina to learn more about her background, her vision for transforming healthcare in Canada, and what excites her most about joining Lyfegen.


Can you tell us a bit about your background and what led you to your role as Director, Sales &Business Development for Canada at Lyfegen?

I have spent close to  a decade in the life sciences sector, working with companies like Novartis  and Pfizer, where I gained deep expertise in healthcare strategy, market  access, and health economics. My passion has always been focused on improving  patient outcomes and the healthcare system. This led me to Lyfegen, a company  at the forefront of transforming healthcare through innovative solutions. The  opportunity to work with payers and drug manufacturers to ensure better and  sustainable access to innovative treatments for patients was a natural fit  for me, both professionally and personally.


What are the biggest challenges facing the healthcare market in Canada, particularly in terms of drug pricing and access?

The Canadian healthcare system is highly complex! The biggest challenge that we are facing is how to accelerate access to innovative therapies without compromising the sustainability of the healthcare system. Payors, including both public and private insurers, are struggling to balance their budgets with the rising costs of therapies, particularly for specialty drugs. Outcome based agreements are a potential solution to enable timely access to breakthrough therapies.  However, payors and pharmaceuticals don’t have the infrastructure in place to efficiently implement and operationalize such agreements.


What  opportunities do you see for growth in Lyfegen’s sales efforts in Canada? How  can we better support health insurers and government bodies?

There is tremendous  potential for growth. Currently, payors and pharmaceuticals adjudicate their  product listing agreements (PLAs) manually through Excel spreadsheets. It is  resource intensive, leaves room for errors and is a barrier to potential  innovative contracting. In addition, as Canada increasingly looks towards  value-based healthcare models, Lyfegen is an enabler by providing the digital  infrastructure for payor and manufacturers.


From your perspective, what key actions need to be taken in the  next 12 months to drive success for Lyfegen in the Canadian market?

In the next 12 months, we need to focus on deepening  our relationships with key stakeholders and demonstrate the value of our  digital solutions for payors, manufacturers, healthcare system and,  ultimately, the patients.


How do you see your role influencing the implementation of  value-based solutions in Canada, and what impact do you hope to have?

Lyfegen has extensive  experience in OBA implementation and operationalization in many countries. In  my role, I hope to bridge the gap from theory to practice in the  implementation of value-based healthcare in Canada.


In your opinion, what’s the most important aspect of building  strong client relationships in the healthcare industry? How do you approach  this in your role?

Trust and communication  are at the core of any strong client relationship in healthcare. Given the  complexity and sensitivity of the industry, clients need to know that you  understand their unique challenges and are committed to solving them. In my  role, I prioritize open and ongoing communication, ensuring that clients feel  heard and that their feedback is integrated into our solutions. I also work  hard to build trust by delivering results and being transparent about what we  can achieve together.

 
Looking ahead, what excites you most about the future of sales  and business development at Lyfegen in Canada?

I’m excited about the potential to be a catalyst for  significant change in the Canadian healthcare landscape. Lyfegen is in a  unique position to lead this transformation. The combination of increasing  demand for cost-effective healthcare solutions and our innovative approach  makes this an incredibly exciting time to be in sales and business  development.


Outside of work, what are some of your favorite things to do in  your free time?

Outside of work, I  enjoy spending quality time with my family and friends. I also prioritize my  health by being active on a daily basis. I also enjoy learning. Now that I  have completed my MBA, I’m on a mission to learn Spanish.

We are excited to see Ina grow and thrive in her role at Lyfegen. Welcome to the team, Ina!

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A Fable of the Blue Bird and Lyfegen's Wise Owls

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A Fable of the Blue Bird and Lyfegen's Wise Owls

Once upon a time, In a whimsical forest, there lived a smart and creative blue bird. This bird, known for its brilliance in the world of tiny forest biotech, had concocted a magical potion.

This potion was a wonder, a gene therapy to cure the forest creatures of a troublesome disease called sickle cell. Perched thoughtfully on a branch, the blue bird faced a whimsical yet vital challenge. The potion, potent in its healing, needed to be more than just a marvel of science – it had to be reachable and affordable for all in the forest. Additionally, this magical creation was still unnamed, a name that should echo its life-affirming qualities and the journey from a mere idea to a beacon of hope in the forest.

Amidst this puzzlement, the blue bird heard tales of the wise owls of Lyfegen, far beyond the forest. These owls were not just wise; they were masters of a different kind of magic – the magic of numbers and agreements that made health solutions reachable to all. Intrigued, the blue bird fluttered over to learn more.

As it learned about Lyfegen's remarkable ability to navigate the complex world of potion pricing and access, inspiration struck. "Ah-ha!" chirped blue bird, "If Lyfegen can make health solutions accessible, why not name my potion in honor of their work? Lyfgenia – a name that sings of life, hope, and the ingenuity of Lyfegen!"

And so, the potion was christened Lyfgenia, a nod to the owls of Lyfegen whose wisdom ensured that such medical marvels reached every nook and cranny of the forest without burdening its inhabitants.

With its new name, Lyfgenia became more than just a potion; it symbolized a harmonious blend of medical genius and financial savvy. The blue bird turned Lyfgenia into a symbol of hope and healing in the whimsical world of the forest.

Disclaimer: "A Fable of the Blue Bird and Lyfegen's Wise Owls" is a work of fiction, created solely for entertainment and illustrative purposes. This fable does not represent any real-life strategies, decisions, or actions of these entities, nor should it be interpreted as an endorsement or representation of their values, capabilities, or business practices.

Using Lyfegen's solutions can streamline the financial management of advanced therapies like Lyfgenia, leading to more effective pricing strategies and improved access for patients. Learn more about how our solutions enable value-based contracting for gene therapies: lyfegen.com

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Driving Growth: Welcoming Our New VP of Sales & Business Development, Simon Farrow

Amid the buzz of innovation at Lyfegen, we sat down with Simon, our newest team member, whose journey has brought a fresh...

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Driving Growth: Welcoming Our New VP of Sales & Business Development, Simon Farrow

Amid the buzz of innovation at Lyfegen, we sat down with Simon, our newest team member, whose journey has brought a fresh perspective to our mission.

 

Quick introduction – tell us a bit about yourself!

I'm based out of the UK. I studied Law at University but soon realized that a career as a Solicitor wasn’t my calling. Post-university, I ventured into Software Sales, initially focusing on Cloud Solutions and then transitioning into the Life Sciences realm. Most of my career has been dedicated to building startups and introducing new ideas and products to the market.

 

What excites you about your job?

What really thrills me about joining Lyfegen is the potential impact I can have on those needing life-saving treatments. The core goal of the pharma industry is to enhance the health and wellbeing of society, and at Lyfegen, we're crafting solutions that make medications more accessible, allowing us to treat more people. It's also incredibly rewarding to collaborate with some of the world's leading pharma companies, supporting them as they launch new assets.

 

Why did you decide to join Lyfegen?

It was the founders' vision that drew me to Lyfegen. Their passion was evident right from our initial conversations. Joining Lyfegen is an incredible opportunity for me to contribute my experience to another startup, and together, we can continue to thrive on this exciting journey.

 

What is something you want to learn or improve in the next 12 months?

Over the next year, I aim to deepen my understanding of the market access space within the pharma industry. Launching assets is intricate, with many layers involved, and there's a wealth of knowledge I'm eager to absorb. It's fascinating to learn about the different approaches of various companies and how they navigate the market.

 

How will your know-how help improve our customers’ experience of Lyfegen solutions?

With my background in launching new solutions for startups, I'm well-acquainted with the challenges that can arise. We can be proactive in addressing these before they occur. As Lyfegen is growing rapidly, it’s crucial that we adapt while maintaining our high standards and always remembering that our customers are our biggest priority. My experience with Global enterprises has also given me insight into the ongoing support they need and the importance of fostering great relationships based on trust and understanding.

 

Let’s get personal: What are your favorite things to do in your free time?

In my free time, I love to travel as much as I can, exploring different cultures and places, with my next plans to delve into more of Asia. When I'm in the UK, I spend time with my German Shepherd, Max, or playing water polo.

 

Is there anything else you are looking forward to outside of work in the next few months?

As we near the end of Q4, it's a busy period, but I'm looking forward to a well-deserved break over Christmas with friends and family, indulging in good food. It's the perfect time to recharge and gear up for a significant 2024 for Lyfegen, where we'll continue to serve our customers, engage with new ones, and grow as a company.

 

Our conversation with Simon ends on a high note, filled with anticipation for the contributions he will bring to Lyfegen. In the words of Girisha Fernando, our CEO, "we are very excited about Simon joining us. His experience is a valuable addition to our team, and we are confident he'll make a significant contribution to our mission. It's a pleasure to welcome him to Lyfegen." 

 

Here’s to new beginnings and transformative journeys! 

Welcome to our crew, Simon.

Amid the buzz of innovation at Lyfegen, we sat down with Simon, our newest team member, whose journey has brought a fresh...

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Exclusive interview with Girisha Fernando at the launch of Lyfegen’s Value-Based Agreement Library

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Exclusive interview with Girisha Fernando at the launch of Lyfegen’s Value-Based Agreement Library

At this years World Evidence, Pricing and Access event, Girisha Fernando, the CEO of Lyfegen, expressed excitement as he spoke about the company’s latest launched offering - the Lyfegen Model & Agreement Library. This unique learning resource is a true game-changer that builds upon the company’s existing product. It expands our horizons by allowing payers and market access & pricing professionals to explore over 2’500 real-life public agreements, and 18 drug pricing models from around the world. The library provides an unparalleled understanding of drug reimbursement models that help users make better informed choices like never before.


Selecting a drug reimbursement model is very complex, as manufacturers want quick market access, while payers may have many concerns, such as a drug’s efficacy and affordability. Fernando emphasized that the library bridges the gap by assisting payers and market access professionals in finding specific models that address each stakeholder’s concerns, and key real-life agreement examples, resulting in better-informed decision-making, and ultimately more efficient reimbursement processes.


“Because of rising healthcare costs and the increase of medical innovations, the thirst for knowledge and need for value-based healthcare capabilities has surged among healthcare payers and pharma companies across the world”, said Fernando, “That is why we are excited about launching the world’s largest database of real-world value-based agreements. It gives payers and pharma a unique insight into how to structure value-based agreements.”


But that’s not all – Fernando explained that the database is constantly evolving, being updated weekly with new public agreements, allowing stakeholders to be up to date on public agreements.


Overall, it is clear that the Lyfegen Model & Agreement Library is an invaluable groundbreaking tool, that is becoming indispensable in increasing the knowledge on drug and Cell & Gene Therapy reimbursement.

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The Tech Team Keeps Growing! Welcome to the Lyfegen Team, Analytical-Superstar, Pavlo!

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The Tech Team Keeps Growing! Welcome to the Lyfegen Team, Analytical-Superstar, Pavlo!

He’s analytical, a techie and has a fantastic gift for music! Yes, we are talking about the latest addition to our team, our very own “Technical Business Analyst” and Ukrainian superstar: Pavlo Lupandin!



Just last month we announced the arrival of our Lead Developer, Daniel, and now more great news follows as Lyfegen continues to lay focus on the technical team: we have our very own Technical Business Analyst, Pavlo!

“Pavlo’s sharpness and problem-solving skills just made it clear that we needed him in our team! His drive and commitment will bring great value to our patients, our customers and Lyfegen as we continue to sharpen our platform” says Lyfegen’s CEO, Girisha Fernando.

We are proud to have him as part of the team and sat down with him to give you a little more insight behind the musical talent and witty “Technical Business Analyst”:

Hi Pavlo! Tell us a little about yourself: where are you from and what is your work experience background?

Hello! I was born in the east of Ukraine, got the Master’s Degree in Economics in Kyiv, worked at one of the Big 4 companies for 3 years as an Auditor, following one year in the role of Business Analyst. After this experience, I found myself being a fresh ACCA Member, who wanted to dive into something not that accounting related. Business analysis has proven to be an interesting area where I can develop further capitalizing on my previous experience.

It’s interesting, that back in my audit days I’ve had some big healthcare-related projects. Who knew that it was only the beginning of working in this promising domain…

This is your first experience in the Health Tech industry – what triggered this move?

Pace of development. The Healthcare & IT industries are developing in overwhelming waves, and to ride the peak of those waves is a challenge – formidable, but a tempting one. As soon as this opportunity presented itself, I decided to chase it. We’ll see, where this decision will bring me in a couple of years.

You are joining Lyfegen as Technical Business Analyst. In simple terms: what will you be working on?

I would be occupied mainly with gathering, documenting and communicating the requirements of our customers. Ever heard of different communication barriers? Those I would try to eliminate, trying to grasp the very core of what has to be done for the maximum customer satisfaction and making sure the development team implements requirements as close as possible to the ideal.

What are your next personal goals with Lyfegen?

There are several of them. First, I strive for development as a professional, and I think Lyfegen will provide me with opportunities to do that. Second, I want to embrace that spirit of a high-growth startup – after working for a massive and complex company, the flexibility and freedom of Lyfegen is a breath of fresh air. And finally, I want to know new talented people. I already know, that the Lyfegen team has a great diversity, and I can’t wait to learn some interesting things from people of other countries and cultures.

What motivated you to join?

Purpose and value. As simple as that. I can see the purpose and value of what I’m doing. Obviously, we are at the beginning of this journey, and it’s a bit early to speak about “value-based pricing for everybody” or “pay only for what is really working” but…the concept is huge, and it will become the question of life and death for some patients. And I’ll do my best to make it as close to life as possible.

Enough about work! What passions do you have outside of Lyfegen?

Oh, you don’t want to hear a full list, I assure you. Let me try to sum it up quickly…Music, videogames and tabletop games – I play them all. A small collection of musical instruments – some of them are quite exotic, especially for my home country (banjo and djembe, for example). A bigger collection of tabletop games in different genres – the Lyfegen team can definitely expect a session or two in the nearest future. And a vast collection of videogames on different platforms…without much details let’s just agree there are a lot.

There are some other hobbies of mine, but I’d prefer to keep a couple of surprises up my sleeve!



We are proud to have the Lyfegen team continue to grow with such fantastic team-members!

 

MEET THE LYFEGEN TEAM

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The Joint Clinical Assessment (JCA): A New Era for Market Access Strategies in the EU

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The Joint Clinical Assessment (JCA): A New Era for Market Access Strategies in the EU

The Joint Clinical Assessment (JCA) is poised to fundamentally change how health technologies gain market access across the European Union. Designed to streamline the evaluation process, the JCA promises to bring greater consistency, transparency, and efficiency to how new therapies and medical technologies are assessed for clinical effectiveness. But what does this mean for your market access strategies?

What is the JCA?

The JCA is a central pillar of the EU’s updated Health Technology Assessment (HTA) regulations. Historically, pharmaceutical and medical device companies faced significant hurdles when introducing new health technologies across different EU member states. Each country has had its own HTA process, leading to duplicated efforts, inconsistent outcomes, and delays in patient access. With the JCA, clinical assessments will be conducted at the EU level, offering a unified approach to evaluating the relative effectiveness of new treatments.

Key Benefits of the JCA

The JCA is expected to address several long-standing challenges:

1. Streamlined market access: By replacing multiple national HTA evaluations with a single EU-level assessment, the JCA will reduce duplication and accelerate the time it takes for new health technologies to reach the market.

2. Consistency across the EU: With the JCA, companies can expect more predictable and transparent outcomes when navigating the regulatory landscape. This will help align market access efforts across all member states, making it easier for companies to plan and execute their market entry strategies.

3. Cost efficiency: By pooling resources and conducting joint clinical assessments, the JCA is expected to save HTA bodies across the EU millions of euros annually. This increased efficiency will also benefit pharmaceutical and medical technology companies by reducing the administrative and financial burden of complying with multiple HTA processes.

How Will the JCA Impact Your Market Access Strategy?

For companies looking to introduce new health technologies in the EU, the JCA will bring both opportunities and new considerations:

Early Engagement Will Be Key: The unified nature of the JCA means that companies will need to engage early with EU-level HTA bodies to ensure that their clinical data meets the requirements of the JCA. This early engagement can help smooth the path to market and avoid potential delays.

A Shift in Regulatory Focus: With clinical assessments now being handled at the EU level, companies may need to adjust their strategies for navigating national market access pathways. While the JCA will simplify the clinical assessment process, national bodies will still be responsible for non-clinical aspects, such as pricing and reimbursement decisions.

Data Consistency and Quality: The JCA emphasizes the importance of high-quality, consistent clinical data. Companies will need to ensure that their submissions are robust and aligned with the JCA’s methodology to avoid discrepancies and delays in the assessment process.

The Role of Technology in Managing Market Access

As market access strategies evolve with the implementation of the JCA, technology platforms like Lyfegen can play a crucial role in helping pharmaceutical and medical technology companies adapt. Lyfegen’s platform simplifies the process of planning, tracking, and managing health technology assessments, ensuring that companies are well-prepared to meet the requirements of the JCA.

By leveraging advanced analytics and real-time data management tools, Lyfegen enables companies to streamline their market access efforts, ensure compliance with EU-level assessments, and maintain transparency throughout the process. With the increasing complexity of market access in the EU, technology will be a critical factor in ensuring success.

Conclusion: Preparing for the Future of Market Access

The JCA is set to transform market access strategies across the EU by creating a more efficient, unified, and predictable pathway for introducing new health technologies. As companies navigate this new landscape, early preparation, high-quality clinical data, and the right technological tools will be essential to staying ahead.

Unlock smarter market access strategies with Lyfegen’s advanced tools! The Lyfegen Drug Contracting Simulator empowers you to navigate the complexities of the JCA, model various pricing scenarios, and optimize your market entry plans. Combined with the Lyfegen Library’s extensive collection of market access models, you’ll have everything you need to succeed in the EU’s evolving regulatory landscape.

Act Now – Book a demo of Lyfegen’s platform and learn how we can support your market access strategy: https://www.lyfegen.com/demo

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Transforming Healthcare Access in Canada: Ina Hasani’s Vision at Lyfegen

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Transforming Healthcare Access in Canada: Ina Hasani’s Vision at Lyfegen

We are thrilled to welcome Ina Hasani to our team at Lyfegen as Director of Sales & Business Development for Canada. Ina brings nearly a decade of experience in the life sciences sector, specializing in healthcare strategy, market access, and health economics. We sat down with Ina to learn more about her background, her vision for transforming healthcare in Canada, and what excites her most about joining Lyfegen.


Can you tell us a bit about your background and what led you to your role as Director, Sales &Business Development for Canada at Lyfegen?

I have spent close to  a decade in the life sciences sector, working with companies like Novartis  and Pfizer, where I gained deep expertise in healthcare strategy, market  access, and health economics. My passion has always been focused on improving  patient outcomes and the healthcare system. This led me to Lyfegen, a company  at the forefront of transforming healthcare through innovative solutions. The  opportunity to work with payers and drug manufacturers to ensure better and  sustainable access to innovative treatments for patients was a natural fit  for me, both professionally and personally.


What are the biggest challenges facing the healthcare market in Canada, particularly in terms of drug pricing and access?

The Canadian healthcare system is highly complex! The biggest challenge that we are facing is how to accelerate access to innovative therapies without compromising the sustainability of the healthcare system. Payors, including both public and private insurers, are struggling to balance their budgets with the rising costs of therapies, particularly for specialty drugs. Outcome based agreements are a potential solution to enable timely access to breakthrough therapies.  However, payors and pharmaceuticals don’t have the infrastructure in place to efficiently implement and operationalize such agreements.


What  opportunities do you see for growth in Lyfegen’s sales efforts in Canada? How  can we better support health insurers and government bodies?

There is tremendous  potential for growth. Currently, payors and pharmaceuticals adjudicate their  product listing agreements (PLAs) manually through Excel spreadsheets. It is  resource intensive, leaves room for errors and is a barrier to potential  innovative contracting. In addition, as Canada increasingly looks towards  value-based healthcare models, Lyfegen is an enabler by providing the digital  infrastructure for payor and manufacturers.


From your perspective, what key actions need to be taken in the  next 12 months to drive success for Lyfegen in the Canadian market?

In the next 12 months, we need to focus on deepening  our relationships with key stakeholders and demonstrate the value of our  digital solutions for payors, manufacturers, healthcare system and,  ultimately, the patients.


How do you see your role influencing the implementation of  value-based solutions in Canada, and what impact do you hope to have?

Lyfegen has extensive  experience in OBA implementation and operationalization in many countries. In  my role, I hope to bridge the gap from theory to practice in the  implementation of value-based healthcare in Canada.


In your opinion, what’s the most important aspect of building  strong client relationships in the healthcare industry? How do you approach  this in your role?

Trust and communication  are at the core of any strong client relationship in healthcare. Given the  complexity and sensitivity of the industry, clients need to know that you  understand their unique challenges and are committed to solving them. In my  role, I prioritize open and ongoing communication, ensuring that clients feel  heard and that their feedback is integrated into our solutions. I also work  hard to build trust by delivering results and being transparent about what we  can achieve together.

 
Looking ahead, what excites you most about the future of sales  and business development at Lyfegen in Canada?

I’m excited about the potential to be a catalyst for  significant change in the Canadian healthcare landscape. Lyfegen is in a  unique position to lead this transformation. The combination of increasing  demand for cost-effective healthcare solutions and our innovative approach  makes this an incredibly exciting time to be in sales and business  development.


Outside of work, what are some of your favorite things to do in  your free time?

Outside of work, I  enjoy spending quality time with my family and friends. I also prioritize my  health by being active on a daily basis. I also enjoy learning. Now that I  have completed my MBA, I’m on a mission to learn Spanish.

We are excited to see Ina grow and thrive in her role at Lyfegen. Welcome to the team, Ina!

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The Cost of Innovation: Budget Impact of Gene Therapy for Sickle Cell Disease on Medicaid Plans

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The Cost of Innovation: Budget Impact of Gene Therapy for Sickle Cell Disease on Medicaid Plans

In December 2023, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved two groundbreaking gene therapies for sickle cell disease (SCD), offering a new lease on life for individuals battling this severe condition. However, while these therapies bring significant clinical improvements, their cost has emerged as a formidable challenge, particularly for Medicaid, which covers approximately half of the 100,000 individuals in the U.S. with SCD.

The Financial Strain of Sickle Cell Disease on Medicaid

Gene therapy represents a revolutionary treatment for SCD, a condition that has traditionally required ongoing management through therapies like allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplants (HSCT). While HSCT offers a potential cure, its use has been limited due to donor availability and high toxicity. Now, gene therapy provides a much-needed alternative, but the steep price tags—approximately $2.29 million per treatment—pose a significant challenge for Medicaid programs across the country.

The latest budget impact analysis updates previous findings on how these high-cost therapies could impact 10 Medicaid plans with the highest prevalence of SCD. The study reveals that even cost-effective treatments with exceptional clinical benefits may be unaffordable for payers, particularly given the expanding Medicaid enrollment and higher-than-expected launch prices for these therapies.

Short-Term Costs vs. Long-Term Savings

For Medicaid plans, the financial challenge of gene therapy is primarily in the upfront, one-time cost of the treatment. The updated model projects that in the first year alone, gene therapy for SCD will result in an average budget impact of $65.8 million per state program, with a per-member per-month (PMPM) cost of $3.11 across the 10-state sample. Although the cost decreases over time—with the PMPM dropping to $2.08 by year five—the initial budgetary strain is a significant concern.

Despite these costs, the long-term benefits of gene therapy are undeniable. By offering a potentially curative solution, gene therapy could avert future medical expenses associated with SCD, such as hospitalizations, pain management, and ongoing treatments. The model conservatively assumes perfect effectiveness and durability, projecting that the therapy would eliminate all future SCD-related healthcare costs for treated patients. While these assumptions may not reflect real-world outcomes, they provide a glimpse into the potential for long-term savings.

Market Diffusion and Budgetary Impact

A critical factor influencing the budget impact is the market diffusion rate—the speed at which patients adopt the new therapy. The analysis assumes an annual diffusion rate of 7%, meaning that a subset of eligible Medicaid enrollees will receive the therapy each year. This rate could vary, influenced by factors such as manufacturing capacity, delivery center availability, and payer policies. Notably, if the diffusion rate falls below 4%, the PMPM cost could remain below the affordability benchmark set by prior high-cost treatments, such as sofosbuvir for hepatitis C, which generated a PMPM cost of $1.89 in 2024 dollars.

The model also reveals that 35% of Medicaid enrollees with SCD are expected to have a severe phenotype, defined by two or more severe pain episodes annually. This percentage is a key driver of cost, as patients with more severe disease are more likely to be eligible for gene therapy.

State Medicaid Plans Face Varying Impacts

The updated analysis highlights significant variability in how different state Medicaid plans will be affected. For example, in Georgia, where SCD prevalence is higher, the projected PMPM cost is $3.92 in the first year, while Florida faces a slightly lower cost of $2.50 PMPM. These variations reflect differences in both disease prevalence and state enrollment levels.

By the fifth year, the PMPM costs across all state programs are expected to decrease, driven by reduced new therapy adoption and the absence of ongoing SCD-related costs for treated patients. However, the affordability challenge remains a pressing concern, particularly in the early years of gene therapy adoption.

Balancing Access with Affordability

Medicaid plans, payers, and policymakers are now tasked with finding ways to balance the promise of gene therapies with their potential financial burden. The affordability challenge could limit patient access, echoing the struggles faced during the rollout of high-cost hepatitis C treatments.

One potential solution is the development of novel payment models, such as annuity-based approaches, which could spread the cost of gene therapy over several years, easing the immediate budgetary impact. Additionally, the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Innovation is exploring alternative payment strategies specifically for gene therapies within Medicaid, aiming to ensure access without jeopardizing the financial sustainability of state programs.

The Role of Technology in Managing Costs

As gene therapies become more prevalent, platforms like Lyfegen can play a key role in helping payers manage the financial complexities associated with these high-cost treatments. Lyfegen’s platform simplifies the process of tracking the economic impact of gene therapies, providing payers and providers with the tools they need to assess real-world outcomes, monitor costs, and adjust strategies accordingly. By leveraging technology, healthcare systems can better navigate the financial risks and ensure that patients continue to benefit from the latest innovations in care.

Unlock smarter budget management strategies with Lyfegen’s powerful tools! The Lyfegen Drug Contracting Simulator helps payers and healthcare providers model the financial impact of high-cost therapies like gene therapy for SCD, optimize payment strategies, and make informed decisions. Coupled with the Lyfegen Library’s extensive database of pricing models, you’ll be equipped to tackle the financial challenges posed by the latest innovations in healthcare.

Act Now – Book a demo of Lyfegen’s platform and discover how we can support your budgeting and contracting needs: https://www.lyfegen.com/demo

References

Meyer, K. B., Kilburg, M. M., Johnson, K. B., & Meyers, M. A. (2024). A budget impact analysis of gene therapy for sickle cell disease: an updated analysis. Blood Advances, 8(17), 4658–4666. https://ashpublications.org/bloodadvances/article/8/17/4658/517069/A-budget-impact-analysis-of-gene-therapy-for-sickle-cell-disease

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Linking Drug Prices to Success: The Power of Outcome-Based Agreements in the Ozempic Era

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Linking Drug Prices to Success: The Power of Outcome-Based Agreements in the Ozempic Era

Outcome-Based Contracts (OBAs) are set to revolutionize access to high-demand medications by linking drug prices to patient outcomes. Specifically, this model ensures that the cost of medication reflects its real-world effectiveness, thereby encouraging better healthcare and sustainable pharmaceutical spending. As outcome-based healthcare gains momentum, OBAs will further push pharmaceutical companies to focus on developing innovative, effective treatments rather than just boosting sales. GLP-1 drugs, such as Wegovy and Ozempic, which are popular for weight loss, could exemplify this shift.

Challenges in Patient Coverage

Right now, accessing GLP-1 drugs is tough due to their high costs and insurers' hesitance to cover expensive, newer treatments. Additionally, coverage decisions vary, and many employers do not include these medications in their health plans. According to Mercer’s 2025 Survey of Health and Benefits Strategies, only 42% of employers cover obesity medications, and only 3% plan to offer coverage for weight loss drugs. Therefore, employers face a tough balancing act between cost and access, especially with GLP-1 drugs like Zepbound, which costs $1,059.87—20% less than Wegovy but still pricey.

Outcome-based Healthcare: Aligning Costs with Effectiveness

As we move towards outcome-based healthcare the OBA’s that are its foundation address these challenges by tying drug costs to real-world effectiveness. Pharmaceutical companies and healthcare providers start by agreeing on specific patient health outcomes. If the medication meets these benchmarks, pricing reflects its success. If not, the price could be adjusted. Ultimately, this model promotes impactful treatments and makes life-changing medications more accessible. It is especially useful for chronic conditions like obesity, where patient outcomes are crucial measures of success.

Benefits for Healthcare Providers

OBAs also benefit healthcare providers by creating a reliable framework for prescribing new or expensive medications like GLP-1s. Providers can prescribe treatments with confidence, knowing they have a proven track record of success. In addition, this model fosters collaboration between providers and pharmaceutical companies, shifting the focus from sales to patient outcomes. As a result, this could lead to better resource allocation, improved patient satisfaction, and a more effective healthcare system overall (Mercer, 2024).

Impact on Pharmaceutical Companies

For pharmaceutical companies, OBAs drive innovation and accountability. By linking drug pricing to patient outcomes, these agreements push companies to focus on treatments that deliver real, measurable results. This shift compels them to invest in research and development, knowing that successful outcomes can boost both credibility and profits. Furthermore, OBAs not only streamline drug approvals but also offer a competitive advantage in the value-based healthcare market.

The Role of Technology

Technology platforms like Lyfegen can also play a crucial role in making OBAs more efficient. Lyfegen’s technology simplifies the complex process of planning, testing and creating OBA’s, as well as tracking rebates. Lyfegen’s all-in-one platform makes it easier to manage contracts with transparency. As demand for GLP-1 drugs continues to rise, such platforms ensure that access to these treatments is tied to proven success while keeping costs manageable.

In conclusion, OBAs could transform access to high-demand medications by aligning drug pricing with patient outcomes. Not only does this model make expensive treatments like GLP-1 drugs more accessible, but it also promotes responsible pharmaceutical spending. By leveraging platforms like Lyfegen, which simplify the process, OBAs offer a path to more equitable and value-driven healthcare.

Unlock smarter pricing and market access strategies with Lyfegen's powerful tools! The Lyfegen Drug Contracting Simulator lets you easily model various pricing scenarios, see their impact on revenue and costs, and refine your market access planning. Combined with the Lyfegen Library’s vast collection of pricing models and agreements, you'll have everything you need to make informed, strategic decisions. These tools empower payers and pharmaceutical companies to tackle pricing challenges head-on, streamline negotiations, and address payer concerns with confidence.

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References

“Welcome to brighter.” Mercer, https://www.mercer.com/en-us/.  

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The BioSecure Act passes the House

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The BioSecure Act passes the House

In the US, a piece of proposed legislation with major ramifications on pharmaceutical manufacturing passed the House of Representatives, the first step in the law-making process, on September 9th. H.R.8333 - BIOSECURE Act has received bipartisan support and passed the House 306 to 81.  

The BioSecure Act alleges that some Chinese biotech companies post a national security threat, due to their affiliation with the Chinese Communist Party and their military or intelligence agencies. The draft bill mentions “military-civil fusion” being a central concern, a procedure by which under certain circumstances, Chinese companies, whether headquartered in China or not, must surrender all company data to the CCP.

Five companies were named as a “biotechnology company of concern” in the bill: BGI Genomics, MGI Tech, Complete Genomics, WuXi AppTec, and WuXi biologics. Companies relying on these providers have until 2032 to change suppliers, exactly the 8 years estimated to be needed to make the switch, according to a survey conducted by the Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO) earlier this year. The same survey found that 79% of the 124 biotech companies surveyed had at least one contract or product from a Chinese CDMO/CMO.  

It’s expected that Indian and South Korean CDMOs will see greater demand if this bill is signed into law by US President Joe Biden. In that case, there are concerns that pharmaceutical products could rise in price due to supply chain issues or that patients will lose access to important therapies. WuXi AppTec and sister company WuXi Biologics are involved in the manufacture of several approved drugs, including cell and gene therapies.  Shares of WuXi AppTec and WuXi Biologics fell 10% and 3.9% respectively on Tuesday, September 10th.  


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