Q&A

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Paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) is a complex disease with signs and symptoms that are nonspecific, unpredictable, and often similar to those of other diseases. Here you will find answers to some more frequently asked questions to help give you a better understanding of PNH and Soliris®. As you read through them, remember that your own questions may differ from those asked because your experiences with PNH may be different from others.1 Remember, too, that you should always discuss these and any other medical questions with your doctor.

OneSource™ Program

Q:

What is OneSource?

A:

OneSource is a program that provides education, assistance with access, and treatment support for all people living with PNH and their caregivers. Whether you are learning more about your disease, exploring treatment options, getting ready to begin Soliris therapy, or are already on Soliris, OneSource is here to help.

OneSource is staffed by Alexion Nurse Case Managers who are registered nurses with healthcare and insurance expertise. They are available every step of the way to answer questions about PNH and Soliris and provide personalized support for you and your healthcare team.

For example, Alexion Nurse Case Managers offer one-to-one PNH education and help navigating through insurance issues. They are available to answer any questions you may have, including those about insurance coverage, lifetime maximums, and getting access to treatment with limited or no insurance coverage. No matter what your personal situation is, OneSource is here to help make treatment access as easy as possible for you.

If you and your doctor decide that Soliris therapy is right for you, your Alexion Nurse Case Manager will help you get started.

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Q:

Why was OneSource created?

A:

OneSource was created by Alexion Pharmaceuticals as part of the company’s commitment to the PNH community. The goal is to provide information on the disease and Soliris therapy. Alexion Nurse Case Managers can help with insurance verification and address other insurance-related or funding issues, such as out-of-pocket expenses, annual caps, and lifetime maximums.

We know that living with a rare disease like PNH can be very challenging. That’s why OneSource was created for you and your healthcare team—to answer any questions you may have about PNH and Soliris.

Q:

Who do I speak with at OneSource?

A:

When you call OneSource, you will speak with a registered nurse with healthcare and insurance expertise, also known as an Alexion Nurse Case Manager. Whatever your situation, Nurse Case Managers are available to answer your questions about PNH and Soliris and provide personalized support every step of the way.

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Q:

Why should I call OneSource?

A:

We know that living with a rare disease like PNH can be very challenging. That’s why OneSource was created for you and your healthcare team—to answer questions about PNH, provide one-to-one treatment support, and explore funding options. What’s more, the services offered by OneSource are provided as a resource to you and your healthcare team without cost or obligation. Offered services include:

  • Education: Alexion Nurse Case Managers work together with you and your healthcare team, answering questions and providing educational resources related to PNH and Soliris. In addition, they can help you understand more about your first infusion so you’ll know exactly what to expect
  • Access to Soliris treatment: We understand that the insurance process can be time-consuming and confusing. Your Alexion Nurse Case Manager can help navigate insurance issues and coordinate other needs that are important to your treatment plan. He or she can also help by providing information on insurance verifications, coverage determinations, and, if necessary, assistance in securing alternative funding
  • Treatment support: If you and your doctor decide that Soliris is right for you, your Alexion Nurse Case Manager is available to answer any questions you may have about treatment with Soliris. Your Nurse Case Manager can help you understand what to expect during your first infusion and why it’s important to stay on your infusion schedule—including when you’re traveling. He or she can also help find solutions for maintaining therapy when a major life event occurs, such as a change in the status of your family, job, doctor, or insurance plan

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Q:

Do I have to pay to use OneSource?

A:

No. OneSource is open to all people living with PNH and their caregivers at absolutely no cost or obligation.

Q:

My insurance has changed. How can OneSource help?

A:

Your Alexion Nurse Case Manager can provide information that you may find helpful if your insurance coverage changes, if you switch plans, or if you add or remove family members. Remember, it’s important to stay on your infusion schedule to get the full benefit of your Soliris therapy. Contact OneSource before your insurance coverage changes.

Even if you’re just considering therapy options for your PNH, your Alexion Nurse Case Manager can help answer questions about health insurance and explain your options.

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Q:

I’m not currently on Soliris. Can I still call OneSource?

A:

Yes. OneSource is open to all people living with PNH and their caregivers. Whether you’ve been recently diagnosed with PNH or have been living with it for a while, an Alexion Nurse Case Manager will work one-to-one with you to provide personalized support. He or she is available to answer any questions you may have about PNH and Soliris and can address insurance-related and funding issues as well.

Remember, only you and your doctor can decide whether Soliris therapy is right for you.

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Q:

I am considering Soliris therapy. What are my next steps?

A:

Simply call 1.888.SOLIRIS (1.888.765.4747) to speak with an Alexion Nurse Case Manager. He or she will explain the OneSource services to you and answer any questions you may have about starting treatment with Soliris.

You will receive forms to fill out, which will allow your Alexion Nurse Case Manager to speak with your healthcare team and insurance provider and provide access to treatment if you and your doctor choose Soliris. For more information about getting forms and starting Soliris therapy, call 1.888.SOLIRIS.

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Q:

What can I do if my insurance plan has a lifetime maximum or if I don’t have any health insurance?

A:

Contact your Alexion Nurse Case Manager, who can assist you by researching alternative funding options. In some cases, other forms of assistance may also be available for those with limited or no insurance coverage.

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Q:

Can OneSource help me stay on my Soliris infusion schedule while I’m traveling?

A:

In many cases, your Alexion Nurse Case Manager can help you find alternate infusion sites and, if your insurance allows, coordinate your care for those times when you are away from home. While you’re away, it’s important to stay on your infusion schedule to get the full benefit of your Soliris therapy. Contact your Nurse Case Manager as soon as you know your travel schedule—at least two weeks before you leave.

Q:

I’m unclear about my insurance options. Can OneSource help?

A:

Yes. Alexion Nurse Case Managers can help you evaluate your options based on your personal situation and current therapies. A good time to review your insurance options is during your insurance plan’s open enrollment period, which is usually sometime in the fall. OneSource is also available anytime during the year to help you work through insurance issues or answer any questions you might have.

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IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

WARNING: SERIOUS MENINGOCOCCAL INFECTIONS

Soliris increases the risk of meningococcal infections. Meningococcal infection may become rapidly life-threatening or fatal if not recognized and treated early

  • Vaccinate patients with a meningococcal vaccine at least 2 weeks prior to receiving the first dose of Soliris; revaccinate according to current medical guidelines for vaccine use
  • Monitor patients for early signs of meningococcal infections, evaluate immediately if infection is suspected, and treat with antibiotics if necessary

The effect of anticoagulant withdrawal during Soliris treatment has not been studied. Therefore, treatment with Soliris should not alter anticoagulant management.

Soliris is generally well tolerated. The most frequent adverse events observed in clinical studies were headache, a runny nose (nasopharyngitis), back pain, nausea, and tiredness (fatigue).

Please see full prescribing information for SOLIRIS, including boxed WARNING regarding serious meningitis.


References: 1. Hillmen P, Young NS, Schubert J, et al. The complement inhibitor eculizumab in paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria. N Engl J Med. 2006;355:1233-1243.