The designation demonstrates the highest level of commitment to quality healthcare.
ROBBINSDALE, Minn. (Dec. 9, 2020) – North Memorial Health is proud to announce that it has earned URAC accreditation in Specialty Pharmacy. URAC is the independent leader in promoting healthcare quality through leadership, accreditation, measurement and innovation. By achieving this status, North Memorial Health has demonstrated a comprehensive commitment to quality care, improved processes and better patient outcomes.
North Memorial Health began offering on-site specialty pharmacy services to North Memorial Health Cancer Center patients in 2016, significantly enhancing the patient experience. In partnership with Trellis Rx, North Memorial Health’s pharmacists and pharmacy liaisons have expanded our specialty pharmacy services to more than 2,000 patients with chronic and complex conditions across seven specialty services.
Monthly out-of-pocket costs for specialty medications can reach thousands of dollars, making it challenging for patients to afford treatment. The North Memorial Health specialty pharmacy service addresses this challenge by helping patients access financial support through no-cost pharmaceutical programs and foundation assistance. In 2019, the specialty pharmacy secured over $4.5 million in financial aid for patients and lowered their average monthly out-of-pocket costs to less than $10.
“North Memorial Health’s specialty pharmacy services makes it possible for patients in our community to access the coordinated, personalized specialty pharmacy care they need, when they need it,” said Paul Krogh, system director – Pharmacy Services at North Memorial Health. “Achieving URAC accreditation in Specialty Pharmacy is a milestone that signifies our dedication to providing the highest quality of care to our patients.”
In addition to improving medication affordability, North Memorial Health’s specialty pharmacy services address other common barriers to medication adherence. Pharmacy liaisons provide administrative support with prior authorizations and refill coordination which helps with affordability., Pharmacists provide ongoing counseling and clinical support which improve medication adherence. In 2019, the North Memorial Health specialty pharmacy program achieved a 95 percent proportion of days covered, or PDC, a common measurement of adherence.
“It’s necessary for specialty pharmacies to provide a higher level of treatment for patients so desired outcomes are achieved. North Memorial Health shows a dedication to patient education and safety through the recognition of quality it received with URAC’s independent accreditation,” said URAC President and CEO Shawn Griffin, M.D. “With URAC accreditation, people know that North Memorial Health strives to adhere to industry best practices.”
Media Relations Contact
Katy Sullivan
North Memorial Health
763-581-2402
Katy.Sullivan@NorthMemorial.com
About North Memorial Health
At North Memorial Health, we are on a mission to change healthcare. We’re delivering unmatched customer service and empowering our patients throughout the Twin Cities to achieve their best health. North Memorial Health provides access to high-quality, low-cost care throughout the Twin Cities through its medical transportation services and two hospitals – North Memorial Health Hospital and Maple Grove Hospital. North Memorial Health Clinics which include primary care, specialty care and hospice are part of a joint venture with Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota that is transforming the healthcare experience for consumers. Across the North Memorial Health system, 350+ doctors and 6,000+ team members are dedicated to delivering a more connected experience for our patients.
About URAC
Founded in 1990, URAC is the independent leader in promoting healthcare quality through leadership, accreditation, measurement and innovation. URAC is a nonprofit organization using evidence-based measures and developing standards through inclusive engagement with a range of stakeholders committed to improving the quality of healthcare. Our portfolio of accreditation and certification programs span the healthcare industry, addressing healthcare management, healthcare operations, health plans, pharmacies, telehealth providers, physician practices, and more. URAC accreditation is a symbol of excellence for organizations to showcase their validated commitment to quality and accountability.