QPharma acquires the MedStart Connect business for pharma sampling

September 14, 2017

Kiosks sit in physicians’ offices for sample drop-offs

QPharma (Morristown, NJ), which provides a bundle of services relating to pharma commercialization and sales operations, plus IT services, has acquired the MedStart Connect business from MedVantx (Sioux Falls, SD), and will continue a partnership with that company. MedStart Connect’s primary component is the MedStart Cabinet, a kiosk, installed in physicians’ offices, where pharma and OTC samples can be delivered from MedVantx pharma clients participating in the service. The dispensing of the samples can be tied to patients’ electronic health records, and an ongoing patient support program and adherence services can also be accessed.

For the manufacturer, MedVantx provides an alternative distribution channel for samples and the possibility of longer-term patient support; for the physician office, the MedStart Cabinet can be the source of higher patient satisfaction with the office visit. According to MedVantx, the cabinet has been installed in “hundreds” of physician offices nationally, including “no see” offices where pharma reps are prevented from visiting.

Both QPharma and MedVantx are VAWD-accredited pharmaceutical distributors. In addition to the MedStart offering, QPharma provides other sample-distribution and -management programs, product launch management, HCP engagement and training. IT services include validation services, auditing and training. The company has recently expanded its offices in central New Jersey, and is planning international expansion in the coming year.