Kira’s journey: How Accredo Specialty Pharmacy simplifies the complex care journey for PAH patients

When Kira was first diagnosed with Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), her life changed overnight. She found herself dealing with a new reality: nonstop monitoring, new medications, and constant uncertainty. What initially felt like an overwhelming series of appointments and hospital visits quickly transformed into a daily struggle – one that Kira never anticipated having to manage on her own.

With the expert support of Accredo Specialty Pharmacy, Kira has found her complex condition far more manageable. What was once a demanding schedule of intensive lab work, doctor visits, and new medications and medical equipment has become a dependable, well‑structured routine with her three PAH therapies, guided by a compassionate team that truly understands the unique challenges faced by individuals living with PAH.

PAH is a rare, progressive disease in which the small arteries in the lungs thicken and narrow, restricting blood flow. This increases lung blood pressure and forces the heart to work harder, eventually weakening its ability to pump blood efficiently. PAH is most common in women between the ages of 30 and 60, and about 500 to 1,000 people are diagnosed each year in the U.S. 

Today, Kira relies on three different medications to manage her PAH, including continuous infusion and specialty therapies that require careful preparation at home. 

“The process for learning how to mix my medication was pretty involved,” she said. “An Accredo nurse came to my house, and they walked me through step by step how to mix my medication.”

The Accredo nurse did more than provide instruction. She gave Kira a boost of confidence during a high-stress time.

“She came out to my house twice,” Kira said, “and was available for a video call a third time, just to help with my nerves.”

Expert, wraparound care for PAH patients

Through Accredo’s Advanced Pulmonary Conditions Therapeutic Resource Center, patients like Kira have access to a dedicated team of clinicians who specialize in PAH and understand its complexities. Accredo’s PAH team includes: 

• Pharmacists and pharmacy technicians provide medication counseling, manage refills, handle prescription requests, and prepare shipments to ensure patients stay on recommended therapy.
• Specialized nurses deliver ongoing clinical monitoring and train patients to self-administer therapies through Accredo’s nationwide network of 600+ field nurses.
• 24/7 clinical support gives patients round‑the‑clock access to nurses and pharmacists for questions and urgent needs.
• Social workers help patients and families navigate emotional and daily challenges, connecting them with resources at every level.
• Patient access representatives guide patients through insurance requirements, prior authorizations, and financial assistance programs to reduce barriers to care.
• Patient care advocates remind patients about refills and ensure they have all necessary supplies.

24/7 access to expertise and reassurance

Because one of Kira’s medications needs to be infused 24/7, she feels a sense of comfort and security knowing she can always reach someone through Accredo’s 24/7 nurse call center. 

“One night a piece of equipment malfunctioned, and I had to contact the Accredo after-hours nurse line,” she said. “They walked me through how to connect the backup pump, and were able to mail out another pump the very next day.”

With Accredo’s help, Kira says her PAH is well-managed, enabling her to focus on what matters most. 

“Accredo gives me the freedom to do what I want in my life,” Kira said. “They 100% understand my condition and help me to manage it. I don’t feel like PAH dictates my life anymore.”