EARTH CITY, Mo.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Optime Care, a nationally recognized pharmacy, distribution and patient management organization maximizing therapeutic opportunities for the treatment of orphan and rare disorders, points to the value of its patient-first approach for addressing the needs of patients with toxoplasmosis, a serious, sometimes fatal infection caused by the Toxoplasma gondii parasite, one of the most common parasites in the world.
While many people in the U.S. may carry the parasite, only a small number will develop active infection.
“Individuals with a competent immune system are able to eliminate much of the parasite within a few weeks after initial infection. However, parasites protected within tissue cysts can survive long-term and may become reactivated if the individual becomes immunosuppressed”
“Individuals with a competent immune system are able to eliminate much of the parasite within a few weeks after initial infection. However, parasites protected within tissue cysts can survive long-term and may become reactivated if the individual becomes immunosuppressed,” says Donovan Quill, president and CEO, Optime Care. “From the moment they are diagnosed, patients benefit from Optime Care’s dedicated care coordination, helping them gain quick and affordable access to the prescribed drug and supporting them through every step of their treatment.”
Toxoplasmosis is a leading cause of death attributed to foodborne illness in the United States. More than 40 million men, women and children in the U.S. carry the Toxoplasma parasite, but very few have symptoms because the immune system typically keeps the parasite from causing illness. However, women newly infected with Toxoplasma during or shortly before pregnancy, and anyone with a compromised immune system, should be aware that toxoplasmosis can have severe consequences.
The gondii parasite can cause a serious brain disease that can possibly lead to death, eye infections, miscarriage or stillbirth and birth defects in babies exposed to the parasite in the womb. Treatment involves a combination of drugs for six weeks or more, depending on clinical response.
Quill adds, “Optime Care’s patient-first approach means providers and patients have one less concern when it comes to getting started on a medication. A care coordinator works with the patient to understand their insurance coverage, financial needs and the financial assistance programs that they may be eligible for. This helps to ensure compliance and positive outcomes.”
