Reducing Access and Affordability Barriers Across the Brand Lifecycle from Launch to Loss of Exclusivity

Biopharma brands face evolving medication access and affordability challenges at every stage of the product lifecycle: from launch through loss of exclusivity (LOE). In this interview for Pharmaceutical Executive®, Megan Wetzel, Vice President of Product, Access & Affordability at CoverMyMeds, outlines how access barriers shift over time and why lifecycle-specific strategies are critical for reducing delays, abandonment, and patient drop-off. She explores the role of real-world data, workflow-embedded solutions like electronic prior authorization and real-time savings tools, while also highlighting flexible patient support programs to navigate coverage, affordability, and adherence challenges. The discussion also covers how emerging technologies—AI and direct-to-patient models—can support patient-centric access strategies across the brand lifecycle.