Davide Rosiello, CEOA notable milestone was the safe extraction of cryoprecipitate, a plasma component rich in coagulation proteins, including Factor VIII. While industrial methods to extract Factor VIII or IX had existed since the 1990s, they were often plagued by cross-contamination risks and a general lack of understanding among patients and clinicians. BIOVIIIx tackled these issues head-on by developing a viral inactivation system. This breakthrough ensured the safe supply of Factor VIII and Factor IX on demand, nearly eliminating contamination risks over the next decade.
BIOVIIIx didn’t stop there. Recognising that drug therapy was just one piece of the puzzle, the company adopted a holistic approach to patient care. Haemophilia patients frequently suffer severe joint problems due to recurrent bleeding. To address this, the BIOVIIIx team collaborated with other visionaries to create the first Global Advisory Board dedicated to orthopaedic issues, focusing on finding solutions for the traumatic impact on patients’ joints.
Even when the COVID-19 pandemic presented unprecedented challenges, Rosiello’s team met it with innovative solutions. BIOVIIIx was among the first to pioneer home delivery of medications for haemophilia in Italy, ensuring patient safety and convenience during a critical time. The initiative garnered numerous awards for its significant impact. Later, telemedicine solutions, such as portable echography devices were introduced, allowing patients to conduct self-examinations and connect with haematology centres in real time. The telemedicine project was the first of its kind globally, which reflects the company’s dedication to continuously improving patient care.
Prioritising Patient Care Over Profits
BIOVIIIx is grounded in ethical and human-centric values. Its decision-making process focuses on projects that directly benefit patients, often foregoing immediate financial gains. This patient-centric approach leads the company to go above and beyond standard practices.
For instance, when a patient in Sicily urgently needed medication on a Saturday morning, BIOVIIIx covered the costs to ensure its timely delivery. During the COVID-19 pandemic, a young patient from Liguria was stranded in the Canary Islands. His mother contacted a clinician, who then reached out to BIOVIIIx. The company promptly organised a special delivery, providing the necessary treatment at no cost.
“We are seeking reliable solutions for haemophilia patients, addressing not only their physical but their emotional concerns as well,” explains Rosiello.
Recognising the importance of psychological support, BIOVIIIx launched initiatives to provide specialised psychologists for families affected by haemophilia. These programs, introduced to haemophilia associations, help families better accept and manage their condition, teaching them how to live as normally as possible. The commitment to these principles has contributed to its growth and success, reinforcing the belief that good human activities lead to positive business outcomes.
In addition, oral hygiene challenges faced by haemophilia patients are also addressed. By collaborating with key opinion leaders, the company has developed educational programs to train dentists on the specific needs of these patients. Starting in Italy and expanding to Germany, this initiative ensures healthcare providers are well-equipped to manage haemophilia patients and help them navigate the complexities of their condition.
Its patient-centric approach, despite logistical challenges, is a distinguishing feature. It ensures that even patients in remote areas receive the necessary care. This philosophy has earned it respect and recognition, demonstrating its commitment to improving patients' lives.
Advancing Care in Treatment and Patient Advocacy
A great milestone for this family-run company is the acquisition of Hematris GmbH, a German company that owns the Hematrix active patch. This patch is a lifesaver for haemophilia patients struggling with excessive blood loss.
The Hematrix active patch is an innovative wound dressing made from polyurethane foam for severe injuries. It offers a large surface area to absorb blood flow and accelerate clotting. Infused with natural clotting factors, it triggers the clotting process upon contact with blood. Within minutes, the bleeding stops, and the patch can be safely removed. This prevents secondary bleeding and ensures unrestricted circulation while minimising the risk of hematoma.
BIOVIIIx is grounded in ethical and human-centric values. Its decision-making process focuses on projects that directly benefit patients, often foregoing immediate financial gains. This patient-centric approach leads the company to go above and beyond standard practices
Leading with Innovation and Sustainable Healthcare
For the past ten years, BIOVIIIx has invested a portion of its earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) into the research centre. It continues to dedicate its annual profits to developing new therapies for patients. Many of its new patented drugs are currently in phase one of development.
The innovation philosophy extends beyond its products. BIOVIIIx is also committed to sustainability. A year and a half ago, it began efforts to reduce plastic use, which has earned it recognition as a green company. Creating a better world for future generations is fundamental to its vision. This dedication to compassionate, effective healthcare sets a new industry standard, making BIOVIIIx a leader in progress for haemophilia patients worldwide.
BIOVIIIx’s focus on scientific research, comprehensive support systems and global partnerships underscores its broader mission to provide effective healthcare. It is now poised to expand its business units and make more strategic investments in exploring novel molecules, aiming to reach new horizons in the care realm for haemophilia and rare diseases.
