Cigna's Evernorth Launches AI-Powered Pharmacy Forward to Enhance Specialty Care Access and Efficiency

On July 1, 2026, Evernorth, the health services division of The Cigna Group (CI), unveils Pharmacy Forward, an AI-powered initiative aimed at transforming the specialty pharmacy landscape. This innovative program focuses on enhancing patient access to specialty care, particularly for individuals suffering from chronic and complex conditions. With an investment of $100 million slated through 2028, Pharmacy Forward is set to revolutionize how medications are processed and patients are supported throughout their therapeutic journeys.

Harnessing AI for Patient Support

Pharmacy Forward employs advanced artificial intelligence across four main areas: clinical care, prescription intake, administration, and medication fulfillment. Matt Perlberg, the head of Evernorth's pharmacy services, emphasizes that the program aligns with Cigna’s commitment to improving patient experiences. By streamlining processes and increasing medication adherence—targeting improvements beyond the current industry standard of 80%—the program anticipates boosting patient outcomes significantly. Utilizing integrated clinical data and predictive analytics allows care teams to identify patients at risk of therapy discontinuation, ensuring timely interventions and better service delivery.

Enhancing Operational Efficiency

In addition to improving patient experiences, Pharmacy Forward also prioritizes operational efficiency. The implementation of AI tools is projected to reduce clinician documentation time by up to 50%, permitting healthcare providers to devote more attention to direct patient care. The initiative promises a 25% increase in the use of personalized patient digital pathways, further enriching patient engagement and support during their treatment processes.

Cigna's Commitment to Transforming Healthcare

Evernorth’s strategic investment in Pharmacy Forward exemplifies The Cigna Group's resolve to redefine specialty pharmacy services and deliver tailored healthcare solutions that foster patient success.