From the Research
The Prolia (denosumab) at home injection coverage program is a service that allows eligible patients to receive their Prolia injections at home rather than at a healthcare facility, with the goal of improving medication adherence and reducing the risk of fractures in osteoporosis patients. This program provides coverage for the cost of a healthcare professional to administer the 60 mg subcutaneous injection of Prolia in the patient's home every six months. To qualify, patients typically need to have commercial insurance that covers Prolia, meet certain eligibility requirements, and have a valid prescription for the medication.
Key Points
- The program aims to improve medication adherence by removing barriers such as transportation issues or mobility limitations that might prevent patients from receiving their scheduled injections at a clinic.
- This is particularly beneficial for osteoporosis patients who require consistent treatment, as missing doses can significantly impact bone health outcomes.
- The at-home administration helps ensure patients maintain their twice-yearly injection schedule, which is crucial since denosumab's bone-protective effects diminish rapidly when doses are delayed or missed, as shown in a study published in 2022 1.
- Patients interested in this program should contact their healthcare provider or Amgen (the manufacturer of Prolia) to determine their eligibility and enrollment process.
Benefits of the Program
- Improved medication adherence
- Reduced risk of fractures
- Increased convenience for patients
- Potential for better bone health outcomes
Important Considerations
- Eligibility requirements and coverage may vary depending on the patient's insurance and location
- Patients should discuss their individual needs and circumstances with their healthcare provider to determine if the at-home injection program is suitable for them
- The program's effectiveness in improving medication adherence and reducing fractures has been demonstrated in studies, such as the one published in 2022 1, which showed that transferring the complete supply chain to one pharmacy-initiated home care provider can achieve 94% adherence for denosumab injections.