Efficient Strategies to Reduce Wait Time Between Diagnosis of Hidradenitis Suppurativa and Treatment

EP: 1.Recognizing Hidradenitis Suppurativa: From First Signs to an Accurate Diagnosis

EP: 2.Hidden in Plain Sight: Strategies to Improve Early Identification of Hidradenitis Suppurativa

EP: 3.The Pharmacist Advantage: Bridging Gaps in Hidradenitis Suppurativa Care

EP: 4.Health Equity in Hidradenitis Suppurativa: Addressing Care Disparities

EP: 5.Proactive Hidradenitis Suppurativa Management: From Watchful Waiting to Active Intervention

EP: 6.Building Hidradenitis Suppurativa Treatment Plan: Evaluating Standard of Care Pharmacotherapies

EP: 7.The Role of Biologics for Treatment of Hidradenitis Suppurativa

EP: 8.A Personalized Approach: Considerations for Appropriate Biologic Selection in Hidradenitis Suppurativa

EP: 9.Navigating Access and Coverage Hurdles: Step Therapy in Hidradenitis Suppurativa

EP: 10.The Window of Opportunity: Why Early Biologic Use Matters for Patients With Hidradenitis Suppurativa

EP: 11.Preparing for Updates to Hidradenitis Suppurativa Guidelines

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EP: 12.Efficient Strategies to Reduce Wait Time Between Diagnosis of Hidradenitis Suppurativa and Treatment

The discussion highlighted ongoing challenges with access to biologic therapies for hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), particularly related to utilization management policies such as step therapy and documentation requirements. These policies often delay timely access to biologics, even when earlier, more aggressive treatment would benefit patients significantly. Step therapy, while designed to control costs, can prolong suffering and worsen quality of life by requiring patients to try less effective treatments first, such as antibiotics or topical agents that may not adequately address the disease.

The cost burden of HS and the risk of complications, like infections and antibiotic resistance, make timely and appropriate therapy even more critical. There is a growing consensus that step therapy protocols should be re-evaluated to better align with disease severity and patient needs, ensuring that they do not impede access to effective treatments.

To reduce delays in starting biologics, effective strategies include proactive planning with patients by setting expectations about approval timelines and developing backup plans with alternative therapies when necessary. Educating patients about the process and increasing health literacy helps manage expectations and adherence. Utilizing resources such as specialty foundation websites and support programs can aid health care providers in navigating access hurdles.

Additionally, clinical trials represent a valuable option for patients who face barriers to insurance coverage or who need alternative treatment avenues. With an increasing number of HS clinical trials available, these studies offer hope and access to new therapies during this era of expanding treatment options.

Overall, a multipronged approach—combining patient education, strategic planning, resource utilization, and clinical trial opportunities—is essential for improving timely access to biologic treatments and enhancing outcomes for patients living with HS.