The Gene-based, Cellular and Other Innovative Therapies (GCIT) network has been launched by Aetna, a CVS Health company. This network is intended to provide members with access to novel medicines that treat and potentially cure uncommon genetic disorders while also assisting in the management of these therapies’ high costs. Aetna’s national GCIT network includes more than 75 authorized GCIT service providers who have demonstrated quality and value in GCIT service delivery.
- Aims: Aetna has created the Gene-based, Cellular, and Other Innovative Medicines network, which aims to connect members with therapies for genetic illnesses. According to Aetna, the new network will include 75 providers who will provide gene therapy services for ailments such as hereditary retinal disease and spinal muscular atrophy.
- Effective features: The network’s goal is to treat individuals with rare genetic illnesses with FDA-approved treatments while also lowering treatment costs. According to the release, clinical teams will help patients throughout their treatment. Members who use a GCIT-designated provider will be treated by a provider who has demonstrated experience in providing these specialized services.
- New innovation: “We’re creating a differentiated provider network that our customers can experience as being caring, connected and convenient,” said Richard Gentleman, Executive Director, National Partner Strategy, Aetna. “Our multi-pronged approach encompasses safety, member access to cutting-edge therapies, and cost management to support the medical and economic needs of our members and customers. It also paves the way for future FDA-approved gene therapies to be added quickly and cost-effectively so that we can help more people achieve their best health.”
- Treatments: Beginning January 1, 2022, Aetna’s designated GCIT network will provide three gene therapy services, including Luxturna, Spinraza, and Zolgensma for the treatment of inherited retinal disease and spinal muscular atrophy. The GCIT network is included as a standard medical benefit in all Aetna fully insured plans and is also available to self-insured plans.
- Challenges: “Gene therapy is poised for significant growth in the coming years, and the promise of durable improvement for patients with challenging diseases is exciting,” said Joanne Armstrong, M.D., MPH, Chief Medical Officer, Women’s Health and Genomics at CVS Health. “Yet, high costs associated with these therapies continue to pose a significant challenge. It is therefore vital that they are delivered by highly-specialized providers in an environment that can provide the patient receiving the therapy a high potential of a successful outcome.”