Evernorth, the health services arm of Cigna, has introduced a new specialty care initiative called Fast Forward. The program utilizes artificial intelligence to streamline care delivery and aims to improve patient outcomes. This launch marks the first phase of a broader strategy to integrate AI across the company’s pharmacy operations.
The initiative is initially being deployed through Evernorth’s Accredo Specialty Pharmacy. Accredo manages a network of Therapeutic Resource Centers throughout the United States, providing support for individuals with chronic and complex medical conditions. The Fast Forward program will operate within this existing infrastructure to assist patients.
Cigna has committed $100 million to the project, with funding allocated through 2028. The company projects that the investment could generate approximately $400 million in value by the end of that period. The goal is to support the more than one million patients Accredo serves each year. Future expansion of the AI tools to other pharmacy operations is planned for subsequent years.
The program targets four primary areas within the pharmacy value chain: clinical care, prescription intake and administration, and drug delivery. According to Evernorth, the system is designed to help medication adherence rates exceed 80 percent, which is the current industry benchmark. Additionally, the technology aims to reduce the time clinicians spend on documentation by up to 50 percent.
Matt Perlberg, who oversees pharmacy and care delivery operations at Evernorth, stated that the initiative reflects a commitment to providing faster, more seamless experiences for patients. He emphasized that the program ensures individuals receive personalized support and clinical care tailored to their specific needs.
