In the time since Teresa first began experiencing symptoms, she found herself increasingly challenged by the everyday demands of teaching. She has since retired, reluctantly, and is feeling increasingly lonely and isolated. And while she is relieved to have eventually reached an accurate diagnosis, she can’t help but feel frightened and depressed about the implications of living with PAH.
Teresa’s care team is ready to begin treatment now that a diagnosis has been determined. Her pulmonologist, Dr. Frank Mallory, is weighing the nuances and challenges involved in PAH treatment alongside his patient.
Teresa Reyes
Patient
She/Her
LISTEN
Let’s listen to Dr. Frank Mallory as he considers the next steps for Teresa’s treatment.
ACTIVITY
Dr. Mallory is considering treating Teresa with a single tablet combination therapy (STCT), which targets two of the PAH pathways with a single pill. When considering the use of a treatment like an STCT, patients and doctors alike have numerous factors to weigh.
Review the lists below and check the box next to the seven most important factors to consider when establishing a treatment plan.
12 Minutes
Dr. Frank Mallory
Pulmonologist
He/Him
Teresa’s Pros for an STCT
Reduce pill count
Fewer doses per day
Fewer calls with insurance
Possibility to save money - "two for the price of one?"
Teresa’s Cons for an STCT
Experiencing side effects
Dealing with calls from insurance
Overall, immediate cost of insurance
The pill is pretty big!
Dr. Mallory’s Pros for an STCT
Improve adherence
Get to standard of care efficiently
Already familiar with one of the components of the STCT