Specialty pharmacy represents the largest single-focus opportunity for health systems to improve patient outcomes and experiences while still realizing incremental economic growth.  

Through 2025, the specialty drug market is expected to grow by 8 percent a year, which represents a $118 billion increase during a 3-year period. 

A key differentiation between traditional pharmacies and specialty pharmacies is how they are integrated into treatment planning and patient care. Because specialty drugs are used to treat patients with complex, often chronic and rare, conditions, specialty pharmacies are heavily involved in the continuum of care. Specialty pharmacists work directly with prescribing physicians and patients to provide education and support, and to administer treatment. 

Accreditation requirements have been developed to set best practices guidelines for facilities that provide specialty pharmacy services. Accrediting bodies like the Accreditation Commission for Healthcare (ACHC) and the Utilization Review Accreditation Commission (URAC) are responsible for managing these requirements. Read more >