Cardinal Health Surges to 150th in Trading Volume with $649 Million Turnover Despite Stock Decline

On May 8, 2025, Cardinal Health (CAH) experienced a significant increase in trading volume, with a turnover of $649 million, marking an 83.92% rise from the previous day. This surge placed Cardinal Health at the 150th position in terms of trading volume for the day. However, despite the high trading volume, the stock price of Cardinal Health declined by 4.05%.

Cardinal Health recently published its 2025 Advanced Therapies Report, which delves into the evolving landscape of cell and gene therapies (CGTs). The report is based on a comprehensive survey of over 100 healthcare providers, along with interviews from subject matter experts and a patient who underwent CAR T-cell therapy. The report highlights the transformative potential of CGTs, particularly for patients with complex and rare conditions, and documents one patient's experiences with CAR T-cell therapy, including the challenges encountered.

The report also underscores the significant obstacles to CGT access and adoption, including referral processes, high costs, complex logistics, and reimbursement uncertainties. Financial constraints, such as high acquisition costs, and lack of or inadequate reimbursement are cited as major barriers by 56% and 54% of survey respondents, respectively. Collaboration across all industry stakeholders, including manufacturers, payers, providers, and patients, is identified as crucial for overcoming these challenges. Strategic initiatives between payers and manufacturers, such as innovative payment models, and extending facilities beyond academic/medical center hubs are highlighted as important steps to improve access to CGTs.

Despite the promising outlook for the CGT industry, many patients still do not receive the treatments they need. Insufficient social support and prior authorization denial are cited as the most common reasons for this gap. The report emphasizes the need for the industry to take stock of its current state and discuss ideas to navigate the significant changes brought by the growth of these therapies. Cardinal Health's report provides valuable insights into how the industry can move forward and improve patient access to CGTs.