This Week in Pharmacy

1h ago

Up first, Inspirogene-by-McKesson with Joe DePinto InspiroGene" is a dedicated business unit launched by McKesson in October 2024, focused solely on supporting the commercialization of cell and gene therapies (CGTs). It leverages McKesson's expertise in supply chain, logistics, and specialty pharmacy to help manufacturers, payers, and providers navigate the complex CGT landscape. https://www.mckesson.com/business-solutions/our-businesses/inspirogene-by-mckesson/ Our featured interview: Sponsored by MatchRX The TrumpRx Playbook for Independent Pharmacies CEO of MatchRx Johny Kello co-hosts with Todd Eury featuring our guest speaker, Dae Lee, Pharm.D., Esq., CPBS. Dae is a pharmacist-attorney and a Shareholder in the FDA & Biotechnology practice at Buchanan Ingersoll & Rooney. What makes Dae especially valuable for this conversation is that he’s not just reading policy from 30,000 feet — he represents pharmacies every day in high-stakes fights with PBMs, from audits and reimbursement disputes to network suspensions and terminations. So, when we talk about TrumpRx — how it works, what it could break, and what independents should do next — Dae can translate the legal and contracting reality into real-world consequences behind the counter. Connect with MatchRX: MatchRX.com Special Message from Greg Reybold with APCI, update of the "Pharmacists Fight Back Act" Connect with Greg: https://www.apcinet.com/ Next, we talk with Dr. Jessica Daley PharmD Fractional Supply Chain and Operations Executive, with Pharma Logistics, we dicuss drug shortages and strategies for 2026. Connect with Jessica: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicaldaley/ Last interview, a suprise message from International Pharmacy 50 Pharmacist & Author Katrina Azer, announcing her new book https://www.katrinaazer.com/#books

6d ago

Segment 1: The Hidden Lender in America’s Drug Supply Chain Guests: Antonio Ciaccia, President, 3 Axis Advisors Alec Ginsberg, Founder, The Drugstore Cowboy Building on Alec Ginsberg’s investigative article, “The Hidden Lender in America’s Drug Supply Chain,” this discussion exposes how capital flows, credit structures, and opaque financial relationships influence pharmacy viability. Ciaccia and Ginsberg break down what independent pharmacists need to understand about who truly controls leverage in the system—and why transparency matters more than ever. Segment 2: How AI Is Transforming Pharmacy Operations Guests: Harry Travis, BS Pharm, MBA, President, The Travis Group Amanda Awe, PharmD, Clinical Product Consultant, Curatio Advisors Artificial intelligence is no longer theoretical in pharmacy—it’s operational. This segment explores how AI is being deployed today to improve workflow efficiency, clinical decision-making, and patient engagement, while addressing the real-world challenges of adoption. Inside the Forces Reshaping America’s Drug Supply Chain | TWIRx Thanks to NimbleRx , PRISM by OvaryIT , and Sykes & Company for sponsorsing today's show

Dec 5

This Week in Pharmacy – Friday, December 5th Strengthening the Pharmacy Workforce: A Conversation with Crystal Lennartz Cutting Through the AI Confusion: Shaun Jensen on Smarter Pharmacy Operations The New 340B Reality: Allison Arant on Navigating HRSA’s Rebate Model Welcome to another episode of This Week in Pharmacy, where we bring together the most important conversations, industry insights, and breaking pharmacy news shaping the future of healthcare. Today’s show features a powerhouse lineup of leaders driving innovation across retail pharmacy, technology, consulting, and 340B health-system strategy. 🟦 Segment 1 — Interview with Crystal Lennartz, President of Health Mart & Health Mart Atlas We open the show with a conversation with Crystal Lennartz, President of Health Mart and Health Mart Atlas, about the evolving role of workforce management in independent pharmacies. 📰 TWIRx News — Friday, December 5th A fast roundup of the top stories impacting pharmacy this week: 👉 Humana Exploring Partnership with Mark Cuban Humana is reportedly in discussions with Mark Cuban to explore a potential pharmacy partnership that could disrupt traditional PBM and drug-supply models. The collaboration may reshape how medications are priced and accessed—another sign that alternative pharmacy models are gaining traction. 👉 New Migraine Therapy: Symbravo Pharmacists should be aware of Symbravo, a new dual-action migraine therapy combining meloxicam and rizatriptan. Importantly, the product is non-substitutable , meaning pharmacies must dispense exactly as written. The therapy adds a new tool for acute migraine care but requires careful patient counseling on cardiovascular risks, medication-overuse headaches, and NSAID interactions. 👉 Walgreens Expands Automated Fulfillment Centers Walgreens continues restructuring by expanding its automated micro-fulfillment pharmacy network. Robots are now filling a growing percentage of maintenance prescriptions, allowing pharmacists to refocus on clinical services. The move signals accelerating automation across retail pharmacy as chains seek cost savings and operational efficiency. 🟦 Segment 2 — Interview with Shaun Jensen, CEO of JB Consulting Group Next, we speak with Shaun Jensen, CEO of JB Consulting Group, about the rising confusion many pharmacy operators face around AI adoption. We discuss: Where AI adds true efficiency versus where it’s misunderstood Practical steps for pharmacy owners to implement AI tools How data-driven automation can improve workflow, inventory, prior authorizations, and patient communication The mindset shift required for pharmacies to thrive in an AI-supported future 🟦 Segment 3 — Interview with Allison Arant, SVP of Client Development & Marketing, Clearway Health Our final interview is with Allison Arant from Clearway Health, focusing on the new challenges hospital systems face as HRSA launches the 340B rebate model. Key discussion points: How the rebate model changes operational and financial dynamics for 340B hospitals Why safety-net hospitals caring for large uninsured and underinsured populations are feeling heightened pressure Strategies Clearway Health is deploying to help health systems navigate rising medication costs, compliance demands, and shrinking margins What health-system pharmacies must prepare for heading into 2026 This week’s conversations underscored a unifying theme: the pharmacy industry is entering a period of rapid transformation, driven by new reimbursement models, automation, innovation partnerships, and evolving expectations from both patients and payers. Independent pharmacies, health systems, and specialty operators all face challenges—but also significant opportunities for reinvention, collaboration, and leadership. Thank you for tuning in to This Week in Pharmacy. Stay informed, stay inspired, and keep pushing our profession forward. Walgreens doubles down on automation to reshape pharmacy operations. The retail pharmacy giant is dramatically expanding its network of robot-powered micro-fulfillment centers (MFCs) — facilities that dispense maintenance medications for chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension. The goal: serve 5,000+ stores by the end of the year, up from earlier coverage of around 4,800 stores. https://chainstoreage.com/news-briefs/2025-12-05?article=walgreens-expands-automated-pharmacy-fulfillment-network New migraine therapy raises key practice questions for pharmacists. Symbravo — a fixed-dose oral tablet combining meloxicam (an NSAID) and rizatriptan (a triptan) — has been approved for the acute treatment of migraine with or without aura, offering a dual-mechanism option targeting both inflammation and serotonin-mediated pathways. Pharmacists now play a critical role: they must identify patients at risk for medication-overuse headaches, screen for contraindications (e.g., cardiovascular disease, GI risk, or NSAID/triptan interactions), and advocate for comprehensive migraine management beyond just pain relief — including lifestyle adjustments and referrals when needed. https://www.pharmacytimes.com/view/what-pharmacists-should-know-about-symbravo-s-role-and-non-substitutability-in-migraine-care Humana is reportedly working with Mark Cuban on a potential pharmacy partnership — a development that could shake up how prescriptions are delivered and disrupt traditional middle-man models. The collaboration would leverage Cuban’s innovative approach to drug pricing and distribution, potentially creating a new channel for medication access that bypasses traditional pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) and large-chain dispensaries. If executed, the partnership could increase competitive pressure on legacy players and reshape the pharmacy supply chain. For independent pharmacies and pharmacy leaders, this signals a possible shift in how drugs are sourced, priced, and distributed — highlighting the growing influence of alternative pharmacy models and urging traditional pharmacies to adapt or risk being left behind. https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-12-04/humana-working-with-mark-cuban-on-potential-pharmacy-partnership Washington, DC there's a whole bunch of pharmacy people meeting up to rollout the Pharmacists Fight Back Act (PFBA)! If you want to go, LISTEN UP!! You’ll be joining pharmacists and pharmacy owners from more than 17 states, all calling for meaningful pharmacy reimbursement reform NOW. Your presence at the news conference will send a strong message to your Congressional Delegate: "we’re serious about passing legislation that protects and keeps pharmacies in business." The news conference is scheduled for Thursday, December 11th at 9:30 AM on the Capitol Hill lawn. Meet up with "Pharmacists United for Truth and Transparency". Check out TRUTH RX dot org. We put a link in today's show notes. Check it out or reach out to Todd on LinkedIn. TruthRx.org The New Pharmacy Playbook: Workforce Strength, AI Clarity, and 340B Reform | TWIRx

Nov 28

We Give Thanks to You in Pharmacy | TWIRx Welcome to This Week in Pharmacy for November 28th! We hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving, and as we roll into Black Friday, we want to take a moment to express something truly important: our gratitude. At the Pharmacy Podcast Network, we are incredibly thankful for the pharmacists, pharmacy technicians, and pharmacy teams who show up every day for their communities. You are the medication experts, the problem-solvers, the late-night troubleshooters, the vaccine champions, the trusted faces behind the counter, and the advocates who keep patient care moving—often without enough recognition. To every pharmacist and pharmacy technician working long hours, covering holiday shifts, managing medication shortages, answering tough questions, and supporting patients with compassion: Thank you. Your commitment keeps the healthcare system steady, especially during the busiest times of the year. From all of us at the Pharmacy Podcast Network, we appreciate you, we support you, and we’re honored to share your stories. Happy Thanksgiving—and welcome to This Week in Pharmacy. TWIRx News November 28, 2025 Pharmacy Times Fun Fact: Coffee Could Reduce Feelings of Depression https://www.pharmacytimes.com/view/fun-fact-coffee-could-reduce-feelings-of-depression Saving Advice article “Unmask The Lie: The Reason Your Local Pharmacy Always Runs Out Of Meds” https://www.savingadvice.com/articles/2025/11/28/10442667_unmask-the-lie-the-reason-your-local-pharmacy-always-runs-out-of-meds.html Could dedicated pharmacists help improve neonatal care’s medicines safety problem? https://pharmaceutical-journal.com/article/feature/could-dedicated-pharmacists-help-improve-neonatal-cares-medicines-safety-problem On Today's "This Week in Pharmacy" we're welcoming back Pharmacist and Kelli Stovall, RPh EMBA, Vice President of Pharmacy Services and Clinical Programs with IPC. Kelli and I talk about preparing for a more profitable 2026 with several ideas to build new non-PBM revenues with patient services needed throughout communities threatened by 'pharmacy deserts'. Next, a special feature interview with Myra Ahmad , MD. CEO & Founder of Mochi Health. Mochi Health is a telehealth company offering comprehensive virtual obesity and weight-management services. Through its platform, patients connect with board-certified physicians, nurse practitioners, and registered dietitians to receive personalized treatment plans tailored to their unique body, lifestyle, and health goals. Mochi Health emphasizes that weight is not a moral failing, but a complex health issue — and their care is non-judgmental and supportive. Clients can access evidence-based medication options (including GLP-1 receptor agonists), nutrition guidance, and ongoing support — often virtually from home. The company aims to make obesity care more accessible, affordable, and personalized than traditional in-person clinics. SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT on "This Week in Pharmacy" November 28th 2025, the Legacy Pharmacy Group (LPG) has announced that CEO Ritesh Shah, RPh has been appointed to Governor-Elect Mikie Sherrill’s Transition Task Force in New Jersey. This appointment highlights Shah’s longstanding leadership in independent pharmacy and his commitment to strengthening community-based healthcare across the state. Shah will focus on advocating for independent pharmacies, improving transparency in Pharmacy Benefit Manager (PBM) operations, and promoting policies that ensure community pharmacies remain viable, accessible healthcare resources. His priorities on the task force include: Protecting and strengthening independent pharmacies statewide Ensuring fairness, transparency, and accountability in PBM practices Expanding access and reducing barriers to care, particularly for underserved populations Legacy Pharmacy Group Founder and Pharmacist, Jay Dhaduk, emphasized the importance of having informed pharmacy leadership at the policy level and celebrated Shah’s appointment as critical to the long-term sustainability of independent pharmacies. The release also highlights LPG’s role as the tri-state area’s largest group purchasing organization, supporting more than 720 independent pharmacy members with programs, services, and advocacy to help them thrive. Thank you to IPC and YARAL Pharma for sponsoring today's TWIRx Du2SXEoupKHwm2ROh5lf

Nov 21

On "This Week in Pharmacy" #TWIRx TWIRx NEWS This Week in Pharmacy News – A trio of developments highlight major shifts and ongoing challenges in pharmacy care: Fruth Pharmacy , a 73-year-old family-owned regional pharmacy chain in West Virginia and Ohio, has been acquired by Walgreens Boots Alliance, with transfer of prescription files and inventory from 16 stores planned for December 3 — the deal underscores how legacy community pharmacies are increasingly consolidating to survive pressure from reimbursement and PBM models. - from Mass Market Retailers https://lnkd.in/emKagG9v At UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy , the Postgraduate Year One Community-based Pharmacy Residency Program is celebrating 25 years, having trained 163 residents who serve in community pharmacies across North Carolina. With 95 % of Americans living within five miles of a pharmacy, the program emphasizes the critical role of community pharmacists in rural and underserved areas. https://lnkd.in/e-Gk5bkr A new commentary from Those Nerdy Girls draws attention to the growing crisis of “pharmacy deserts” — areas lacking accessible pharmacies — and links closures of independent and chain pharmacies (nearly 1 in 3 since 2010) with inequities in care for rural, Black and Latino-majority neighborhoods. The piece calls for PBM reform, policy action and community engagement to preserve pharmacy access. https://lnkd.in/ezxmdRfb Featured Sponsor today: MatchRX presents: Understanding #DSCSA and the Road to 2026 Special Guest: Ilisa Bernstein PharmD, JD CEO & Co-founder Johny Kello with MatchRX Johny welcomes one of the "50 Most Influential People in Pharmacy", Ilisa B.G. Bernstein, PharmD, JD, to break down the current state of DSCSA compliance as the industry approaches the critical November 2025 enforcement deadline. With decades of leadership in pharmacy practice, regulatory policy, and national advocacy, Dr. Bernstein brings unmatched clarity to what pharmacies must do now — and how the right technology partnerships can keep them operational, efficient, and fully compliant. Learn more: https://www.matchrx.com/ Featured Guest: Dr. Dr. Jordyn Nordé, PharmD, MBA is a forward-thinking clinical hashtag#pharmacist and community leader based in St. Louis who combines advanced clinical training with business acumen to drive impact in underserved populations. With experience in ambulatory care and medication management for conditions like hypertension, diabetes and pain, she is also the founder of an initiative bringing minority pharmacy professionals together through mentorship, entrepreneurship and wellness conversations. Her dual credentials enable her to bridge healthcare, professional development and advocacy — positioning her as an emerging influencer in pharmacy practice transformation. Du2SXEoupKHwm2ROh5lf

Nov 14

Special Feature: Andrew Crawford, Vice President at Keysource talks with TWIRx host Todd Eury about the direct to patient market (Direct to Consumer, DTC) expected to hit $21 billion this year. Pharmacy is evolving fast. When DTC brands move in, pharmacies have a choice...compete or collaborate. Some manufacturers are selling directly to patients at discounted cash prices and cutting out traditional intermediaries. The model is projected to grow 9% a year through 2030, with pharma support services expected to nearly double from $3.2B to $5.7B by 2030. Driven by cost pressure and new legislation, manufacturers are moving quickly. It is creating more transparency but patients still need guidance, trust, and human care. Pharmacy is being redefined as the bridge that keeps care personal, safe, and local. It is not being replaced, but what will it look like in 10 years? TWIRx News: Pharmacy student shot, killed by friend who became paranoid after they smoked pot together, documents say - from WMTV /Gray News https://www.wowt.com/2025/11/11/pharmacy-student-shot-killed-by-friend-who-became-paranoid-after-they-smoked-pot-together-documents-say/ Why Guardian Pharmacy Services Stock Was on a Tear Tuesday - by Motley Fool / Yahoo Finance https://finance.yahoo.com/news/why-guardian-pharmacy-services-stock-202435130.html Metformin May Diminish the Cardiometabolic Benefits of Exercise https://www.pharmacytimes.com/view/metformin-may-diminish-the-cardiometabolic-benefits-of-exercise Today's TWIRx is sponsored by YARAL Pharma & SureCost

Nov 7

This Week in Pharmacy - November 7, 2025 TWIRx News: First up, Binghamton University School of Pharmacy holds emergency management simulation, VCU Health pharmacies expand access through new home delivery options, and Lilly and U.S. government agree to expand access to obesity medicines to millions of Americans. Our special guest line up on TWIRx: Amantha Bagdon - CEO of RxPost PGX Pharmacist's Protection of Patients with Dr. Melissa Smith PharmD Arkansas HB 1150 TO PROHIBIT A PHARMACY BENEFITS MANAGER FROM OBTAINING CERTAIN PHARMACY PERMITS. with John Vinson CEO of the Arkansas Pharmacy Association & Greg Reybold with APCI 4th Generation Pharmacy Owner C.O. Bigelow (the oldest Apothecary in America) the Drugstore Cowboy, Alec Gingsberg PharmD Thank you to our sponsors: Independent Pharmacy Cooperative (IPC) Yaral Pharma SureCost The Drugstore Cowboy Rides Again: PBM Reform in Arkansas & PGx Safeguards for Xeloda Patients | TWIRx

Oct 31

TWIRx in the WORKS!!! Welcome back to This Week in Pharmacy (TWIRx) — your weekly deep dive into the most important pharmacy news, innovations, and conversations shaping healthcare. In this episode, host Todd Eury brings you stories that move from data to impact, exploring how pharmacists are driving change through knowledge, leadership, and advocacy. 🗞️ TWIRx News Roundup Wrapping up IDWeek 2025 with the latest insights from Pharmacy Practice News and more breaking updates across the profession: 💊 How Well Are You Using Fetroja? Understanding appropriate use of cefiderocol and antibiotic resistance challenges. 🔗 Read at Pharmacy Practice News ⚕️ AFPs Affect Access to Specialty Medications Learn how alternative funding programs are impacting patient access and specialty care. 🔗 Read at Specialty Pharmacy Continuum 🚨 FDA Recall Alert Drug makers recall a blood pressure medicine tainted with a cancer-causing chemical. 🔗 Read the full story via AP News 🧠 Meeting Patients Where They Are How pharmacists are supporting patients managing schizophrenia treatment adherence. 🔗 Read at Pharmacy Times 🎤 Featured Guest: Keith Kallmes President, Nested Knowledge A deep conversation on how Nested Knowledge is transforming the way clinical data becomes actionable insights for healthcare decision-makers. Connect with Keith on LinkedIn 🧬 Today’s TWIRx is sponsored by Nested Knowledge — advancing research automation and evidence synthesis to accelerate medical innovation. 💪 31-Day Pharmacist Challenge A huge thank you to Dr. Jesse McCullough, PharmD — Founder of Keystone Pharmacy Insights — for inspiring the pharmacy community through the 31-Day Pharmacist Challenge during Pharmacist Month! Connect with Jesse on LinkedIn Join his Leadership Community for Pharmacists on SKOOL 🔥 Bonus Guest: Matthew Zachary Principal, Matthew Zachary Worldwide The outspoken healthcare advocate returns to rage against the PBM Mafia, shining a light on the broken business models of the “Big 3” PBMs. Shout-out to Mark Cuban Cost Plus Drugs for disrupting the system and fighting for transparency and affordability for patients everywhere. 📢 Subscribe & Connect Stay tuned to This Week in Pharmacy (TWIRx) for the most relevant stories, data insights, and voices advancing the future of pharmacy care. Follow the Pharmacy Podcast Network on: 🌐 PharmacyPodcast.com 🔗 LinkedIn | X | YouTube | Spotify | Apple Podcasts Data to Impact: Nested Knowledge & the 31-Day Pharmacist Challenge | TWIRx