Release Date: March 19, 2025
For the complete transcript of the earnings call, please refer to the full earnings call transcript.
Q: Can you discuss the potential opportunity that the CKD launch represents for FUROSCIX and your expectations for the launch starting in April? A: John Tucker, CEO, explained that the CKD launch presents a significant opportunity due to the overlap with heart failure patients. The company has already engaged with nephrologists and expects a quicker uptake than in cardiology. Steve Parsons, SVP of Commercial, added that nephrologists often treat patients with both CKD and heart failure, making it a concentrated target area. The full launch is expected in mid-April, with revenue impact anticipated mainly in Q3 and Q4.
Q: What hurdles have you faced in achieving the desired adoption rate for FUROSCIX, and what could accelerate the ramp? A: John Tucker, CEO, noted that patient out-of-pocket costs were a significant hurdle last year. With the Medicare redesign reducing the out-of-pocket cap to $2,000 and introducing a smoothing option, they expect improved patient access and increased fill rates. The redesign is seen as a tailwind for 2025, alongside the CKD launch and expanded sales force.
Q: Could you push for more favorable payer coverage for FUROSCIX now that you have two indications? A: Steve Parsons, SVP of Commercial, stated that they are satisfied with their current payer position, especially with the Medicare redesign offering $0 co-pays for patients in catastrophic coverage. They do not plan to change their position as it would be costly and unnecessary given the expected benefits from the redesign.
Q: How will the CKD launch affect your promotional strategy and interaction frequency with healthcare providers? A: John Tucker, CEO, mentioned that while initial efforts in nephrology will require more in-services, they do not expect it to impact the frequency of interactions with cardiologists significantly. The sales force expansion allows for efficient coverage of both specialties, and they are prepared to adjust if needed.
Q: Are you seeing any impact from the Medicare redesign on fill rates and demand for FUROSCIX? A: John Tucker, CEO, confirmed that they have recently observed more patients enrolling in smoothing and experiencing lower co-pays, leading to increased fill rates. While there was initial confusion, the situation is improving, and they expect continued positive impact as more patients reach their out-of-pocket caps.
For the complete transcript of the earnings call, please refer to the full earnings call transcript.
This article first appeared on GuruFocus.Disclaimer: Investing carries risk. This is not financial advice. The above content should not be regarded as an offer, recommendation, or solicitation on acquiring or disposing of any financial products, any associated discussions, comments, or posts by author or other users should not be considered as such either. It is solely for general information purpose only, which does not consider your own investment objectives, financial situations or needs. TTM assumes no responsibility or warranty for the accuracy and completeness of the information, investors should do their own research and may seek professional advice before investing.