Case Studies
Oncology Analytics in Action
Rituxan Treatment for Lymphoma
Outcome: Rituxan is used to treat a variety of lymphomas. However, this patient did not have evidence of lymphoma. Rituxan has been associated with fatal infusion reactions, kidney failure, bowel obstruction, infections, and other severe side effects. Administering Rituxan would have subjected the patient to the risk of complications without any associated benefit.
Savings: Approximately $6,200 per treatment or approximately $74,000 over 2 years.
Authorization of Neulasta
Outcome: Neulasta often causes bone pain, which can be so severe that patients may think they are having a heart attack. It can also cause fatal splenic rupture and acute respiratory distress syndrome. Administering Neulasta to this patient would have increased the risk of complications without any possibility of benefit.
Savings: Approximately $6,000 per month or $18,000 over three months of treatment
Taxotere and Cytoxan for Stage II Breast Cancer
Outcome: Oncology Analytics oversight improved this patient’s chance of cure.
Savings: Approximately $2,500 per month or $7,500 for three months of treatment
Metatastic Breast Cancer Treatment
Outcome: Oncology Analytics’ patient-focused mission is clearly demonstrated here. This non-compendium regimen was approved because the patient was benefitting from the treatment, therefore, the cost of the treatment was not a subject of the discussion.