How the Buy and Bill Model can transform Dermatology Practices by Angie Lee

Maximizing Patient Access: Buy-and-Bill Strategies for Dermatology Practices

By: Angie Lee

The world of healthcare is constantly evolving, and dermatology practices face unique challenges in ensuring patients have uninterrupted access to biologic therapies. Medications like Stelara, Ilumya, Cimzia, and Xolair can significantly improve patients’ quality of life, but navigating the logistics of these treatments can be tricky. Enter the buy-and-bill model—a streamlined, practice-controlled approach that’s transforming patient care.

Let’s dive into what this model is all about, why it’s a game-changer, and how your dermatology practice can implement it effectively.

What Is the Buy-and-Bill Model?

The buy-and-bill model is straightforward: your practice purchases medications directly from a wholesaler, administers them in-office, and then bills insurance for reimbursement. Sounds simple, right? The beauty of this system lies in its ability to bypass common roadblocks like shipment delays, copay card restrictions, or accumulator programs that can delay therapy.

Why Should Dermatology Practices Choose Buy-and-Bill?

Here’s why this model is making waves:

1. Timely Access for Patients

No more waiting for specialty pharmacies to ship medications. With the buy-and-bill model, treatments are readily available on-site, allowing patients to start or continue therapy without frustrating delays.

2. Greater Control Over Treatment

When medications are managed in-house, your practice retains full oversight. From administering therapies to monitoring patient responses and handling any adverse reactions, you’re in control every step of the way.

3. Streamlined Billing and Cost Management

Say goodbye to the administrative headaches caused by third-party pharmacy processes. The buy-and-bill approach simplifies reimbursement and reduces dependency on external entities, making life easier for your billing team.

Top Medications in Dermatology That Fit the Buy-and-Bill Model

Certain injectable treatments are particularly well-suited for this approach:

• Stelara (ustekinumab): Treats moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis.

• Ilumya (tildrakizumab): Targets moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis.

• Cimzia (certolizumab pegol): Helps manage moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis.

• Xolair (omalizumab): Addresses chronic idiopathic urticaria and other dermatologic conditions.

Unlike infusion therapies, these options integrate seamlessly into dermatology practices, reducing complexity while maintaining effective patient care.

How to Implement the Buy-and-Bill Model in Your Practice

Ready to give this model a try? Follow these steps:

1. Partner with Your Field Reimbursement Manager (FRM)

Your FRM is your go-to resource for navigating the ins and outs of the buy-and-bill model. They’ll guide you on everything from procurement to coding and reimbursement.

2. Train Your Team

Educate your biologic coordinators, clinicians, and billing staff about the process, including documentation and coding requirements. A well-trained team is the backbone of a successful implementation.

3. Set Up Inventory Management Systems

Track your stock levels, expiration dates, and medication usage with robust systems to ensure efficiency and avoid waste.

4. Educate Patients

Help patients understand how the buy-and-bill model works and emphasize the benefits—especially how it reduces delays and ensures continuous care.

The Bottom Line

The buy-and-bill model is more than an operational strategy; it’s a patient-centered approach that prioritizes seamless access and treatment efficiency. By adopting this model, dermatology practices can reduce barriers, improve workflows, and empower biologic coordinators to deliver exceptional support.

Ready to take your practice to the next level? Contact your Field Reimbursement Manager today to explore how buy-and-bill can transform patient access and care in your dermatology office.

Empower your practice. Empower your patients.