Skip to Content

Frequently Searched

Supported by

NCODA’s Leadership and Commitment to the Medically Integrated Oncology Care Team

Published Date: June 26, 2025

Authors:
Jonas Congelli, RPh
Sharita Howe, PharmD
Katie Edmiston

Since inception, NCODA has passionately led and supported patient cancer care in a medically integrated care setting. This is demonstrated through our continuous creation of resources for patients and care teams, our collaboration with ASCO in publishing the Patient Centered Medically Integrated Dispensing: ASCO/NCODA Standards and the development of the NCODA Center of Excellence Medically Integration Pharmacy Accreditation Program. Building on this foundation, NCODA has recently developed additional key resources aimed at strengthening the voice, clarity, and impact of the Medically Integrated Pharmacy (MIP) model. A summary of both our newly released and foundational resources is provided below.

Medically Integrated Pharmacy (MIP) Core Claims: A Patient-Centered Model

NCODA defines a Medically Integrated Pharmacy as a dispensing pharmacy within an oncology center that fosters a multidisciplinary, patient-centered approach. This model integrates pharmacy services directly into the clinical setting, enabling:

  • Enhanced Communication: Direct collaboration between pharmacists and healthcare providers ensures timely interventions, decreased prescription abandonment, personalized education and care leading to increased patient satisfaction.
  • Improved Medication Adherence: Real-time monitoring and follow-ups help patients stay on track with their treatment plans.
  • Faster Access and Affordability: On-site dispensing and streamlined insurance coordination reduce delays and financial barriers, facilitating timely access to medications.
  • Cost Avoidance and Waste Reduction: Proactive clinical reviews and close monitoring minimize medication waste and optimize treatment efficacy.

These integrated services collectively contribute to better patient experiences and outcomes further supporting the medically integrated pharmacy model.

NCODA’s recently released MIP Core Claims that address the impact by MIPs that are related to abandonment, time to fill, adherence, patient satisfaction, patient education, financial, and cost avoidance & waste. Evidence to support the value of these claims is summarized in this document found on our website and will soon be published in a national journal publication.

Oncology Optimized Limited Distribution (OOLD)

Through extensive collaboration with practices, manufacturers and GPO/distributors, NCODA has redefined distribution terminology. Oncology Optimized Limited Distribution is the NCODA-preferred distribution model for integrated oncology care delivery. Oncology Optimized Limited Distribution excludes PBM-affiliated mail-order pharmacies while allowing MIPs and non-PBM mail-order pharmacies to dispense. This approach promotes coordinated, in-practice care and ensures timely, patient-centered treatment.

To learn more, read the Redefining Oncology Distribution paper here and the How Limited Distribution Networks are Shaping Oncology Care survey results here.

Prime Therapeutics’ IntegratedRx® – Oncology Program

In 2021 Prime Therapeutics partnered with NCODA to launch the IntegratedRx® – Oncology program, which emphasizes:

  • Medically Integrated Medication Dispensing: Allowing oncology practices to dispense medications directly, avoiding the need for external mail-order pharmacies.
  • Seamless Care Coordination: Medically integrated pharmacists within the care team enhances communication and treatment alignment.
  • Improved Patient Outcomes: The integrated approach leads to better adherence, reduced time to therapy initiation, and overall enhanced patient satisfaction. Prime’s own data shows that 94% of members are satisfied or very satisfied with their IntegratedRx® experience.
  • Cost Savings: By reducing medication waste and improving adherence, the program contributes to lower overall healthcare costs. The IntegratedRx® program has driven $4,500 in annual savings per Prime member utilizing the program.

Patient Satisfaction and Program Efficacy

NCODA’s patient surveys have demonstrated high levels of satisfaction with the MIP model:

  • Net Promoter Score (NPS): An average score of 93.1 indicates strong patient loyalty and satisfaction.
  • Preference for MIP: 97% of patients prefer to fill their oncology medications at their MIP rather than through external mail-order pharmacies.

These metrics underscore the effectiveness of the integrated pharmacy approach in meeting patient needs and improving the overall treatment experience.

Accreditation and Standards 

NCODA’s Center of Excellence (CoE) Medically Integrated Pharmacy Accreditation Program, developed in collaboration with the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO), sets patient-centered standards focusing on:

  • Medication Adherence: Ensuring patients follow their prescribed treatment regimens.
  • Patient Education and Safety: Providing comprehensive information and monitoring to safeguard patient health.
  • Cost Avoidance and Waste Reduction: Implementing practices that minimize unnecessary expenses and medication waste.
  • Continuous Quality Improvement: Regularly assessing and enhancing pharmacy practices to maintain high standards of care.

This accreditation is preferred for participation in Prime Therapeutics’ IntegratedRx® Oncology program, highlighting the commitment to excellence in integrated oncology pharmacy services.

For more detailed information and resources, you can visit NCODA’s official website and Prime Therapeutics’ IntegratedRx® page.

NCODA remains steadfast in its mission to strengthen medically integrated oncology care through innovation, advocacy, and collaboration. As cancer care continues to evolve, NCODA is committed to advancing the MIP model by amplifying its proven value and expanding access for patients across the country. Through new tools like the MIP Core Claims, refined terminology such as Oncology Optimized Limited Distribution, and strategic partnerships, we continue to empower oncology practices and improve the patient experience. Together with our members and partners, NCODA is shaping the future of oncology care—one that is more integrated, equitable, and patient-centered.

For questions or further information on how you can help NCODA further support and advance the Medically Integrated Oncology Care model, please contact Jonas Congelli or Sharita Howe.

 

Media Contact:
Katie Edmiston
NCODA
(813) 843-1629