Independence Blue Cross launches gene therapeutics network

Independence Blue Cross recently announced the upcoming launch of its Advanced Network for Gene-Based Therapeutics on March 1.

The network will provide gene-based therapies for patients with inherited rare genetic conditions, including neurological and blood diseases and a form of blindness.

“We’re proud to launch this new network as part of our comprehensive strategy to manage specialty drugs,” Dr. Rodrigo Cerdá, Independence chief medical officer and Health Services senior vice president, said. “Gene-based therapies, although expensive, are often one-dose treatments and have so much potential to improve a person’s quality of life. That’s why we’re committed to making sure our members have continued access to these important treatment options.”

Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) and Penn Medicine are two providers with the network.

Registered Nurse Health Coaches, in partnership with Penn Medicine and CHOP, will assist patients from diagnosis to post-treatment. The nurses are trained to answer member questions and facilitate connections between patients and specialists.

Independence will try to obtain outcome-based agreements with drug manufacturers as new gene-based therapies become available.

“We agree to a set price and measurable expected outcomes with a manufacturer for a specific therapy,” Susan Larkin, Health Markets senior vice president, said. “If the therapy delivers on its intended outcomes, we pay the set price. If it doesn’t, the manufacturer refunds a portion of the cost.”