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Episode 17 - Future Outlook on the Orphan Drug Market
As Hugh Fatodu, RPh, MBA, cites the Orphan Drug Act of 1983 and explains how the act has incentivized pharmaceutical companies to expand on research and continue to develop a variety of orphan drugs for the treatment of rare diseases, the panelists explore the evolving orphan drug market and discuss their concerns.
Mr Fatodu explains that earlier-approved orphan drug products are now being used beyond their original indications and states that he is concerned about the quality of the data that is being reviewed to support product usage. He believes that this factor may affect patient exclusivity and drug pricing.
Maria Lopes, MD, MS, and Michelle Petri, MD, MPH, further discuss rising drug costs for newly developed agents and explain how expensive pricing affects a clinician’s choice to administer an appropriate drug to a patient.
The panelists conclude their discussion by reviewing cost versus quality perceptions as the US transitions into a new delivery model of care.
Report Reveals Mounting Burdens of Drug Shortages on US Health System
June 27th 2025Vizient's 2024 survey reveals a sharp rise in drug shortages across US health care, with pediatric care hit especially hard and labor costs soaring—but the true impact may go far beyond limited medication access, threatening to disrupt the very foundations of how health systems operate.
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Stuck in Prior Auth Purgatory: The Hidden Costs of Health Care Delays
June 19th 2025Delays, denials, and endless paperwork—prior authorization isn’t just a headache for providers; it’s a barrier for patients who need timely care, explains Colin Banas, MD, MHA, chief medical officer with DrFirst.
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