Pharmacy Podcast Network

Specialty pharmacy is becoming one of the most important access points in modern healthcare, particularly for patients managing complex, chronic, rare, and high-cost conditions. As therapies advance and patient needs become more sophisticated, health systems are rethinking how specialty pharmacy can improve medication access, continuity of care, clinical outcomes, affordability, and the overall patient experience.   In this special episode of This Week in Pharmacy, the Pharmacy Podcast Network introduces Specialty Care Close to Home, a new series examining how hospitals and health systems are designing, building, supporting, and scaling specialty pharmacy services across health-system and community-based care models.   Featured Guests   Dr. Laura Mark, PharmD Vice President of Pharmacy, Allegheny Health Network   Allison Arant Senior Vice President, Clearway Health   Chris Corsi Chief Executive Officer, CassianRx   Together, the guests discuss why health-system specialty pharmacy expansion matters, what successful programs require, and where the greatest strategic and operational challenges exist. The conversation explores how strong partnerships, integrated clinical workflows, patient-centered technology, and coordinated care teams can reduce fragmentation and improve specialty medication access.   Discussion Highlights The growing strategic role of health-system specialty pharmacy Keeping patients connected to trusted local care teams Improving access, adherence, affordability, and therapy management Building scalable specialty pharmacy infrastructure Integrating clinical, operational, and technology capabilities Overcoming payer, workflow, workforce, and reimbursement challenges Creating collaborative models that support long-term sustainability   Future episodes of Specialty Care Close to Home will explore accreditation, payer access, manufacturer relationships, clinical workflow, patient engagement, technology infrastructure, data reporting, community access, workforce development, and financial sustainability.   The series will also feature pharmacy directors, vice presidents, executives, operators, and innovators from health systems across the country who are leading the next generation of specialty care delivery.   Host: Todd Eury, Founder of the Pharmacy Podcast Network   Coming Soon: Specialty Care Close to Home—a national conversation about bringing advanced specialty pharmacy services closer to where patients live, work, and receive care.

Switching pharmacy management software is one of the biggest decisions an independent pharmacy can make, and one of the most disruptive if done incorrectly. In this episode of Insights Beyond the Counter, we discuss the real considerations behind changing pharmacy management systems: wh y pharmacies decide to switch, what holds them back, and what makes a transition successful. From workflow challenges and data migration concerns to staff training and long-term scalability, this conversation provides practical insight for pharmacy owners evaluating their current system. If you're frustrated with inefficiencies, limited support, outdated technology, or lack of growth tools, this episode will help you better understand what to evaluate before making a move. In   This Episode: • Signs it may be time to consider a new pharmacy management system • Common fears around switching software • What a smooth implementation process should look like • How to minimize workflow disruption during transition • Why long-term partnership and support matter more than price   This is an audio-only episode. Listen in while you work, drive, or catch up between scripts.   To learn more about our Pharmacy Management Software, check us out at https://www.outcomes.com/. For demo, click here: https://www.outcomes.com/request-a-ph...

AI in Pharmacy Standards and Drug Supply Chain Upgrades This Week in Pharmacy — July 17, 2026   Artificial intelligence and supply chain modernization are reshaping pharmacy practice, patient access, and healthcare operations.   In this episode of This Week in Pharmacy, host Todd Eury speaks with leaders from URAC and Cencora about responsible AI adoption and the growing gap between drug availability and real-world access.   Guests   Shawn Griffin, MD President and CEO, URAC   Brent Wilhelm Senior Vice President, Global Supply Chain Center of Excellence, Cencora   Tim Weber Pharmacy Operations and Regulatory Executive   AI is already supporting clinical documentation, patient communication, risk prediction, and workflow automation. URAC President and CEO Shawn Griffin, MD, explains why healthcare organizations need clear governance, defined accountability, human oversight, and continuous monitoring before deploying AI at scale.   The discussion addresses transparency, performance evaluation, bias, data integrity, cybersecurity, and the role accreditation standards may play in promoting safe and responsible AI adoption.   Governance and accountability for AI outputs Human review of AI-supported decisions Monitoring safety, accuracy, and bias The role of accreditation in AI oversight Balancing innovation with patient protection   Drug Availability Versus Patient Access   Brent Wilhelm of Cencora discusses why a medication may exist somewhere in the supply chain but still remain difficult for providers to obtain.   Dosage limitations, delivery timing, ordering complexity, reimbursement barriers, cold-chain requirements, and site-of-care restrictions can all delay patient access.   Wilhelm explains why the industry must look beyond inventory levels and focus on whether providers can obtain the correct therapy, at the right location, when the patient needs it.   Inventory visibility versus actual access Differences across pharmacies and sites of care Specialty and temperature-sensitive therapies Provider demand forecasting Reducing delays, shortages, and waste   Tim Weber adds the pharmacy operations and regulatory viewpoint, discussing inventory planning, compliance, product tracing, reimbursement, and patient fulfillment.   The conversation highlights the need for better coordination among manufacturers, distributors, pharmacies, health systems, payers, and regulators.

This is the Pharmacy Podcast Network's coverage of the 2026 McKesson ideaShare! Missed the big event? We've got you covered.       McKesson's ideaShare is one of the largest community pharmacy brainstorm events. Empowering current and future independent pharmacists with deeper connections, new ways to innovate, and strength in numbers for the voice of community pharmacy.       Join host Todd Eury, CEO of the Pharmacy Podcast Network, as he walks the exhibit hall in Denver Colorado interviewing vendors, attendees, independent pharmacy owners, and industry friends.       Thank you to Independent Pharmacy Cooperative (IPC), for sponsoring this coverage!       In this episode we hear from: Timothy Lawson Metropolis Drugs & IPC Member John Covello Chris Darling - Darling Apothecary Ollin Sykes - Sykes and Company Diana Baumohl - Go Mango Meds Sam Pizzo - LSPedia Emlah Tubuo - Emlah Consulting

In this episode, Andrew Kantor is joined by federal lobbyist David Pore and PCCA's Amy Shank to examine the proposed SAFE Act and its potential impact on compounding pharmacies. The discussion explores concerns that the bill could restrict patient access to compounded medications during drug shortages, impose new limitations on 503A pharmacies, and disproportionately affect legitimate compounders while failing to address bad actors. The episode also unpacks the legislation's connection to GLP-1 demand, adverse event reporting, and the bipartisan politics surrounding the bill, while encouraging listeners to stay engaged in APC's advocacy efforts.

Welcome to Insights Beyond the Counter, a podcast exploring the forces shaping pharmacy today — from technology and operations to reimbursement, policy, and what it all means for the people behind the counter.    In this episode, we dig into: • The realities independent pharmacies are facing right now • How data, workflow, and smarter systems can drive better outcomes • What's changing — and what isn't — in the pharmacy ecosystem   This is an audio-only episode. Listen in while you work, drive, or catch up between scripts.   To learn more about our Pharmacy Management Software, check us out at https://www.outcomes.com/. For demo, click here: https://www.outcomes.com/request-a-ph...

Integrative Care Impact and the Expanding Role of the Pharmacist | TWIRx Today's episode of This Week in Pharmacy explores two major opportunities shaping the future of the profession: the growth of holistic and integrative pharmacy services inside community pharmacies, and the expanding demand for pharmacists across the business, insurance, and PBM sectors. In our first segment, Todd Eury welcomes special guests Robert Kress, RPh, and Dr. Bianca Bradshaw, PharmD, owner of Elmore Pharmacy in Red Bluff, California. Together, they discuss the tremendous opportunity for independent pharmacies to build holistic and integrative health departments that respond to growing consumer demand for natural products, supplements, wellness solutions, and personalized care. Dr. Bianca Bradshaw, PharmD https://www.linkedin.com/in/bianca-bradshaw-141092205/ Patients are increasingly seeking more natural approaches to health, but they still need trusted clinical guidance. Community pharmacists are uniquely positioned to help patients evaluate products, avoid harmful interactions, understand evidence, and develop safer, more effective wellness plans. This conversation explores how pharmacies can create new service lines, improve patient relationships, and establish sustainable revenue opportunities through integrative care. In our second segment, Dr. Bonnie Hui-Callahan, PharmD, returns to the show to discuss career opportunities for pharmacists within Judi Health and Capital Rx, as well as the broader business and insurance side of pharmacy. Dr. Bonnie Hui-Callahan, PharmD https://www.linkedin.com/in/bonnie-hui-callahan/ As PBMs continue to evolve, new-generation models are creating demand for pharmacists who understand clinical care, benefits, formulary strategy, patient access, data, and healthcare economics. Bonnie shares why pharmacists will remain essential as PBMs transform and why the profession should look beyond traditional dispensing and clinical practice roles when considering future career paths. Today's episode is sponsored by Independent Pharmacy Cooperative and SuiteRx. Listen to This Week in Pharmacy on the Pharmacy Podcast Network.

This is the Pharmacy Podcast Network's coverage of the 2026 McKesson ideaShare! Missed the big event? We've got you covered. McKesson's ideaShare is one of the largest community pharmacy brainstorm events. Empowering current and future independent pharmacists with deeper connections, new ways to innovate, and strength in numbers for the voice of community pharmacy. Join host Todd Eury, CEO of the Pharmacy Podcast Network, as he walks the exhibit hall in Denver Colorado interviewing vendors, attendees, independent pharmacy owners, and industry friends.   Thank you to AAPA, for sponsoring this coverage!   In this episode we hear from: Kelli Sneed & Shams Shibley - AAPARx John Covello with IPC and Anne Cassity with NCPA Mike Bollinger - LiveOak Bank Shahida Choudhry & Jake Johnson - Palms Pharmacy Blair Thielemier - PQS by Innovaccer Nick Fournarakis - Fagron

In this episode, Sheila Arquette, President & CEO of NASP, speaks with Santana VanDyke, MD, Assistant Professor of Dermatology and Director of the Hidradenitis Suppurativa Clinic at University of Vermont Health, and Ryan Lackey, PharmD, CPPS, Ambulatory Pharmacist Clinician and Co-Director of the clinic. They discuss Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS), including disease presentation, treatment options, emerging therapies, and research currently underway. The conversation highlights UVM Health's collaborative care model that brings together dermatology and specialty pharmacy to improve the patient experience and clinical outcomes.  

What does it actually take to modernize a independent pharmacy chain with 25+ locations without overwhelming your team? Kathy Collier, Regional VP of Operations at ExpressRx, and Scott Von Deylen, VP of Sales at Nimble, join host Todd Erie to answer that question. Kathy shares how ExpressRx partnered with Nimble to deliver a digital patient experience patients genuinely enjoy using, while keeping operations lean and compliant. If you're a pharmacy operator trying to compete on convenience without adding complexity, this episode shows exactly what the right technology partnership can unlock.

Today e celebrate 250 Years of Freedom during this 4th of July special with Scotty Sykes with Sykes & Company Pharmacy Accounting Experts. Next, a special interview with Virginia Halsey SVP of Strategy and Product Management and Brad Engels Product Manager at First Databank (FDB).  Today's TWIRx is sponsored by Sykes & Company  250 Years of Freedom - 4th of July Special | TWIRx 

This is the Pharmacy Podcast Network's coverage of the 2026 McKesson ideaShare! Missed the big event? We've got you covered.   McKesson's ideaShare is one of the largest community pharmacy brainstorm events. Empowering current and future independent pharmacists with deeper connections, new ways to innovate, and strength in numbers for the voice of community pharmacy.   Join host Todd Eury, CEO of the Pharmacy Podcast Network, as he walks the exhibit hall in Denver Colorado interviewing vendors, attendees, independent pharmacy owners, and industry friends.   Thank you to the Independent Pharmacy Cooperative (IPC), for sponsoring this coverage!   In this episode we hear from:   Mark Kinney - IPC Eddy Sookswat - McKesson Kevin Boesen - Outcomes Nick Secret - IPC Dave Randolph - Dave's Pharmacy Jimmy Pappadeas & David Plotkin - Scripted Samantha Pomeroy - IPC Sallie Rafie - Birth Control Pharmacist

Functional medicine has been on the tip of the tongue and observed online and on social media for years now, more than in the past, but just what is it and how can it help our patients in pain? Dr. Lauren Castle joins us as a dual expert in the realm of functional medicine and psychedelic pharmacy to clear the fog and address any myths out there for all things functional medicine. Come one, come all, to the Pain Pod!!! P.S. Want to contribute or hear about a pain pearl of your own? Message Pain Guy on www.painguy.us or LinkedIn to directly reach Mark and have your voice heard! Guest Info Lauren Castle, PharmD, MS, AFMC Functional Medicine Pharmacists Alliance, Founder (https://www.fmpha.org/) Psychedelic Pharmacists Association, Founder (https://psychedelicpharmacist.org/)

It was an absolute honor to meet today's guest, and I was honestly a bit starstruck! She is rooted equally in both the science of food and intuitive eating. We dove into the phytochemistry of nutrients, and most importantly, discussed the fundamental principles for healthy eating. Dr. Deanna Minich, PhD, CNS, IFMCP is a pioneering nutrition scientist and thought leader with over 25 years of experience bridging science, spirituality, and art to redefine holistic health. Internationally recognized for her work on color-coded nutrition (“eating the rainbow”), detoxification, and hormone health, Dr. Minich brings a multidimensional lens to wellness that is both grounded in research and infused with a soulful approach. For over a decade, she worked closely with the “Father of Functional Medicine,” Dr. Jeffrey Bland on R&D and functional medicine education with the Institute for Functional Medicine and assisting with the start-up of the Personalized Lifestyle Medicine Institute (PLMI) and now on the Board for PLMI. In 2025, she was awarded the Linus & Ava Helen Pauling Award by the Institute for Functional Medicine, one of the highest honors in the field, for her groundbreaking contributions to science-backed integrative health. As the Chief Science Officer at Symphony Natural Health, Dr. Minich leads the Science-Medical Team's innovation in endocrine, metabolic, and circadian health, developing evidence-based approaches that empower people to reclaim vitality through rhythm, root-cause healing, and renewal. A passionate educator and communicator, she develops transformative curricula and continuing education for health professionals, while also creating accessible, inspiring resources for the general public. Her work meets people where they are, whether they're practitioners seeking clinical precision or individuals seeking a deeper connection to their body's wisdom. Connect with Dr. Deanna via: Email: info@foodandspirit.com Website: Dr. Deanna Minich FB: Deanna Minich, PhD IG: @deannaminich YT: @foodandspirit Linked In: Deanna Minich, PhD, MS, FACN, CNS, IFMCP Visit https://marinabuksov.com for more holistic content. Music from https://www.purple-planet.com. Disclaimer: Statements herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Products listed are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any diseases.

THIS WEEK IN PHARMACY PBM Truth, Cash-Based Pharmacy, and Psychedelics in Medicine Presented by SuiteRx Pharmacy Software Technologies Learn more at SuiteRx.com Episode Overview On this episode of This Week in Pharmacy, Todd Eury brings together two timely conversations focused on pharmacy transformation, advocacy, clinical education, and the future role of pharmacists in healthcare. First, Todd welcomes Brad Hart, owner of Forest Park Pharmacy, a cash-based independent pharmacy model challenging the traditional reimbursement structure many pharmacies operate under. Brad has become a powerful advocate for pharmacy transparency, using TikTok and social media to expose current PBM practices, share data, and speak directly to patients, pharmacy owners, and policymakers about the realities facing independent pharmacies. Brad's message is clear: patients deserve transparency, pharmacy owners deserve fair treatment, and the profession needs more voices willing to educate the public with facts and truth. In the second half of the episode, Todd is joined by Dr. Colby Burns and Dr. Andy Krut from the Psychedelic Pharmacists Association. This discussion helps set the groundwork for understanding psychedelics in medicine, the evolving role of pharmacists in psychedelic education, and the clinical potential of psychotropic therapies historically limited by regulation, stigma, and lack of provider education. As interest in psychedelic-assisted care grows, pharmacists must be part of the conversation. Dr. Burns and Dr. Krut explain why pharmacist education, medication safety, and clinical understanding are essential as healthcare explores emerging approaches to mental health, trauma, pain, and complex patient care. Featured Guests Brad Hart Owner, Forest Park Pharmacy Dr. Colby Burns Psychedelic Pharmacists Association Dr. Andy Krut Psychedelic Pharmacists Association Sponsored By This episode of This Week in Pharmacy is brought to you by SuiteRx Pharmacy Software Technologies. SuiteRx provides pharmacy software solutions designed to support independent pharmacies, improve workflow, enhance patient care, and help pharmacy teams operate more efficiently in today's demanding healthcare environment. Learn more at SuiteRx.com.

Women are driving innovation, improving patient care and leading independent pharmacies through a changing healthcare landscape. In this episode, hosts Jason Callori, Michelle Britt (SVP, Retail Independent, Inside Sales & First Vet Services), and Chelsie Waite (Director of Sales, Retail Independent Sales - West Region) sit down with two remarkable women leaders: Monica Nikseresht, PharmD, and Melissa Hood-Benges, PharmD.   Monica and Melissa share their personal journeys, leadership lessons and insight into key challenges and opportunities. Listen to a conversation highlighting leadership, resilience, advocacy, and innovation, while celebrating women as leaders and change-makers in pharmacy.

What happens when Estrogen and alcohol mix? In this episode we explore how alcohol affects estrogen levels and what every woman should know about drinking during different stages of life.   https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10397281/ https://www.mariongluckclinic.com/blog/hormones-and-alcohol-could-reducing-alcohol-help-with-hormone-balancing.html https://news.weill.cornell.edu/news/2024/12/preclinical-study-finds-surges-in-estrogen-promote-binge-drinking-in-females  

A strong marketing strategy depends on the variety and relevance of your content. In this episode, we dive into what a diverse content strategy is, why it matters, and how it can elevate your marketing efforts. We'll highlight the key benefits of producing varied content, common pitfalls to avoid, and practical tips for integrating different content types across your channels. Tune in to learn how to engage your audience more effectively, strengthen your online presence, and make your marketing work harder for you.

Today's guest shares my mission to empower others to take control of their health and address the root cause. We talk about challenges to testing and addressing the foundations of health, which begins with Minerals & Metals. Jeff Lioon is the Creative Director at The Oligoscan. He's tested over 7,000 people with the device over the last 9 years. After correlating Oligoscan Reports with what people say about their symptoms and health conditions, the test is almost always spot on. I got the opportunity to use scan myself at this year's Integrative Health Symposium in NYC, and I was really impressed with the report. It gave me a deeper understanding of my baseline and how to optimize my health further, and further decrease exposure to heavy metals. I highly recommend checking out the scan for yourself, and for your clients. Connect with Jeff via: Email: jeff@theoligoscan.com Website: The Oligoscan IG: @jefflioon, @theoligoscan Linked In: Jeff Lioon

On this episode of This Week in Pharmacy, we bring together three powerful voices shaping the future of pharmacy, independent practice, functional medicine, and healthcare transformation.   First, we welcome Kris Rhea, MBA, Contributing Editor with Dispense Times, a digital publication dedicated to supporting independent community pharmacy owners across the United States. Kris brings a business-focused perspective on pharmacy operations, growth strategy, workflow efficiency, data-driven decision-making, and market positioning. His work with Dispense Times helps independent pharmacists navigate today's rapidly changing healthcare landscape, including PBM pressures, evolving patient expectations, regulatory challenges, and the need for sustainable business models that keep local pharmacies strong.   We also speak with James Maskell, founder of Evolution of Medicine, an organization built to inspire, equip, and unite functional and integrative medicine practitioners. Evolution of Medicine provides education, practice-building resources, and community for clinicians who are working to build thriving practices rooted in whole-person care. James brings a national perspective on the movement toward functional medicine, community-based care, prevention, and new models that empower practitioners to better serve patients beyond the limitations of conventional healthcare.   Our third guest is Marina Buksov, PharmD, a pharmacist, herbalist, educator, podcast host, and holistic health consultant. After earning her PharmD from St. John's University and graduating Summa Cum Laude in 2013, Marina entered pharmacy eager to serve patients, but quickly recognized that traditional allopathic pharmacy did not fully align with her deeper calling to help people thrive through prevention, root-cause care, plant medicine, and sustainable wellness strategies. Her experience behind the pharmacy counter and as a patient herself inspired her to pursue health coaching, nutrition, functional medicine, and clinical herbalism. Today, Marina helps pharmacists and healthcare professionals explore natural-minded career paths and build meaningful work that bridges pharmacology, herbal therapeutics, and holistic care.   Together, this episode explores where pharmacy is headed: independent pharmacy survival, business model innovation, functional medicine, patient-centered care, pharmacist reinvention, and the growing demand for healthcare professionals who can connect science, prevention, and real-world practice.   Listen to This Week in Pharmacy on the Pharmacy Podcast Network. Pharmacy's future is being built by those willing to challenge the current model, support independent practice, and expand the role of pharmacists as trusted healthcare providers.

In this episode, Sheila Arquette, President & CEO of NASP, speaks with Jonathan L. Swichar, Duane Morris Pharmacy Litigation Group Chair, and Bradley A. Wasser, Duane Morris Pharmacy Litigation Group Partner. They discuss the 2026 Consolidated Appropriations Act and its landmark PBM reform provisions that impact pharmacy network access and transparency. These expert litigators go into detail about what specialty pharmacies should expect as federal agencies enforce the new law and what opportunities and challenges lie ahead for specialty pharmacies.

In this episode of The Executive Dose Podcast, host Stephen Beckman leads a timely discussion on how pharmaceutical manufacturers approach portfolio ideation, portfolio development, and strategic growth in today's increasingly complex healthcare environment.   Stephen is joined by Joe Hendrickson, Head of Strategy and Corporate Development for Serovia, for a conversation focused on how manufacturers identify unmet market needs, evaluate product opportunities, prioritize development pathways, and make strategic decisions amid growing industry pressure.   The discussion explores how pharmaceutical companies move from early-stage ideation to portfolio evaluation, development, commercialization, and lifecycle planning. As manufacturers face rising pricing pressure, market access barriers, regulatory expectations, competitive intensity, supply chain constraints, and evolving stakeholder demands, disciplined portfolio strategy has become more important than ever.   Listeners will gain perspective on how manufacturers are navigating uncertainty, adapting their growth strategies, and building more resilient portfolio models designed to bring meaningful therapies and solutions to market. Special Guest Joe Hendrickson Head of Strategy and Corporate Development Serovia

Today's guest dropped an unbelievable amount of wisdom in the span of just one podcast episode. She and I both align on so many topics as you will discover in our conversation. We both believe that women have the power to intuit what is best for them and their bodies. Women, especially midlife women, have been taught for far too long that their suffering is "just a part of aging." The system has also taught us that when we have symptoms, we should reach for a drug to fix it (and often holistic medicine is thought of as an alternative herb or supplement). My guest asserts that when symptoms arrive for women in midlife and perimenopause, it is often a wake up call to how we are living our lives, particularly the accumulation of not so nourishing choices in the last couple of decades. Hormones shift, revealing what has already been happening. Women can then heed the call to pay attention to foundational living (how they are eating, sleeping, managing energy, stress, etc) and prevent further disease down the road. The common approach to manage symptoms with herbs and/or HRT are only addressing the tip of the iceberg and are not going to get at the root cause of symptoms. Perimenopause and menopause does not have to be a negative life sentence to the rest of your life, rather it can be seen as an initiation and invitation to finally start prioritizing yourself. Maria Gabriela is a certified Ayurveda Health Counselor, a doctor of pharmacy (Pharm.D.), a 200 hour certified yoga teacher, and founder of Intuitive Ayurveda. She helps people in perimenopause and menopause feel better in their bodies using Ayurveda, science-backed tools, and intuitive coaching — so they can celebrate this phase of life instead of dreading it. The eastern and western perspectives of medicine each have something to offer us, and Maria Gabriela understands this dance. Her goal is to educate on Ayurvedic tools that can (and should) be individualized to each complex person. She strives to help her clients tune into the messages their bodies are sending them. Ultimately, she believes every person is the expert on what is best for them, and can be empowered to hone in on which tools they need to support themselves in mind, body, and spirit. Connect with Maria Gabriela via: Email: maria@intuitiveayurveda.com Website: Intuitive Ayurveda IG: @intuitive_ayurveda

This is the Pharmacy Podcast Network's ASEMBIA 2026 rewind! We're dedicated to bringing you inside coverage of the pharmacy nation's biggest events with on the street style interviews with keynote speakers, attendees, exhibitors, and recurring guests who make each year special.  This is part six of our six part series! We'd like to thank Finch Marketing for sponsoring this episode! On this episode we interview: Nicolle McClure - President, Finch Marketing Seth Chaney - CEO, 609 Health Natalie Ryan - Vice President of Specialty Pharmacy Srulik Dvorsky - TailorMed Michael Oleksiw and Abby Reynolds - Pleio Fran Gregory - PharmD, Cardinal Health  

This episode we look at some of the latest compounding news, and then we've got a deep dive into state-level legislation with the Leading Ladies of Pharmacy Compounding Advocacy. What bills are being introduced? What do they really mean when you read the detail? How will they affect state policies, and what could come next? And, of course, how are APC and compounding pharmacies fighting back against the bad bills that put patients at risk? If you're a compounder, if you have patients who use compounded medications, or if you're a patient yourself, you'll want to hear this. Links from the podcast: The FDA statement on excluding GLP-1s from bulk compounding: https://fllw.me/491oGl3 FDA Law Blog on the state of peptide compounding: https://fllw.me/4cpFF2C (part 1), https://fllw.me/4nxd13G (part 2) Is It Legit? to find a state-licensed compounding pharmacy: https://a4pc.org/isitlegit Join APC! https://a4pc.org/join

Birth Rights, Medical Bills & Maternal Advocacy with Andi Orwoll, Esq In this powerful episode of MaternalRx, Dr. Danielle Plummer sits down with Nevada attorney and founder of Your Legal Doula, Andi Orwoll, to discuss the often-overlooked legal and financial realities families face during pregnancy, birth, and postpartum recovery. From navigating IVF paperwork and unexpected C-sections to battling insurance denials and understanding birth rights, Andi shares how her own journey into motherhood inspired her to create a legal advocacy practice specifically for pregnant and postpartum families. This conversation explores the intersection of maternal health, patient advocacy, legal protections, informed consent, workplace rights, and the emotional toll of navigating the U.S. healthcare system during one of life's most vulnerable seasons. In this episode, we discuss: - Why birth rights matter - The legal gaps in maternal healthcare - Insurance denials and surprise medical bills - IVF, fertility care, and the hidden administrative burden - Informed consent and patient advocacy during labor - The Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA) - The midwifery model of care vs. traditional obstetric care - Maternal mental load and postpartum vulnerability - Why tracking medical records, bills, and receipts matters - Navigating medical bills and insurance appeals Key Takeaways: “Policy never overrides your rights.” Andi explains how many patients are intimidated in medical settings and may not realize they have the legal right to informed consent, respectful care, and bodily autonomy during pregnancy and birth. Birth experiences matter. Even when outcomes are medically positive, the emotional and psychological experience of birth can have lasting effects. Advocacy, education, and support can profoundly shape those experiences. The paperwork burden is real. Pregnancy often comes with overwhelming administrative tasks: insurance appeals, billing disputes, maternity leave paperwork, provider reimbursements, and more — all during an emotionally and physically vulnerable time. Midwives, doulas, OBs, pharmacists, and lawyers all have a role. Maternal healthcare works best when it's collaborative. This episode highlights the importance of interdisciplinary support systems for pregnant families. Track everything. One of the biggest practical pearls from this episode: keep copies of: - Medical bills - Insurance explanations of benefits (EOBs) - Receipts - Appointment dates - Correspondence with insurance companies - Workplace accommodation requests Documentation can make all the difference if problems arise later. About the Guest: Andi Orwoll is a Nevada-licensed attorney and founder of Your Legal Doula, a legal advocacy practice focused on supporting families navigating pregnancy, birth, postpartum recovery, workplace accommodations, and healthcare systems in the United States. Inspired by her own experience with IVF, an unexpected hospital birth, and overwhelming postpartum paperwork, Andi created Your Legal Doula to help families understand their rights and confidently advocate for themselves during pregnancy and birth. * Follow Andi: - https://yourlegaldoula.com/ - Instagram @yourlegaldoula About the Host: Danielle Plummer is a pharmacist, antepartum doula, and founder of Obstet-Rx. Through education, advocacy, and pharmacogenetics, she helps women navigate hyperemesis gravidarum and manage medications through complex pregnancy-related conditions. * Follow Danielle: - www.HGPharmacist.com - linkedin.com/in/daniellerplummer Memorable Quotes “We are not playing. We are here to have the birth experience that we want.” “Policy never overrides your rights.” “The most important work you are doing during your perinatal season should not be paperwork.” “The way we are treated during birth matters.” Resources Mentioned https://yourlegaldoula.com/ https://hgpharmacist.com/ Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (EEOC): www.eeoc.gov/ Disclaimer: This podcast episode is intended for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or medical advice. The opinions expressed are those of the speakers and do not reflect the views of their employers or affiliated organizations.

A leadership-level discussion on why drug shortages and supply instability continue to challenge pharmacy, and what executives must understand about operations, compliance, sourcing, and strategy to build a more durable supply chain.

In this episode of the PBM Reform Podcast, host Greg Reybold, Vice President and General Counsel at APCI, welcomes Josh Golden, Senior Vice President of Strategy at Judi Health and a nationally recognized voice in Pharmacy Benefit Manager reform. With more than 20 years of healthcare consulting experience, Golden brings deep expertise in vendor procurement, contract negotiation, plan design, and benefit strategy for large employers, government entities, and unions. Together, Reybold and Golden examine the financial models behind today's PBM industry and why true transparency remains so difficult for employers, plan sponsors, patients, and pharmacies. The conversation explores how current PBM arrangements often benefit the PBMs more than the employers paying for coverage or the patients relying on their prescription benefits. Golden explains why auditing PBM contracts, rebate structures, spread pricing, administrative fees, pharmacy networks, and formulary decisions is essential to understanding the real economics of prescription drug benefits. This episode also addresses a growing concern in healthcare: PBM steering behavior. Are patients being quietly pushed toward specific formularies, specific pharmacies, and restricted networks that operate like closed networks without being clearly disclosed? Reybold and Golden discuss how this behavior can limit patient choice, disadvantage independent pharmacies, and distort the stated goal of lowering drug costs. The discussion also tackles the role of federal reform efforts, including whether the Appropriations Act represents meaningful PBM accountability or whether it risks becoming another layer in the broader shell game surrounding PBM reform. Finally, the episode asks one of the most important questions in pharmacy policy today: should PBMs own pharmacies? If vertical integration is promoted as a way to lower drug costs, where is the proof — and who actually benefits? Transparency, Auditing, and the PBM Shell Game | PBM Reform

This is a corporate-focused, conversational interview between Pharmacy Podcast Network Host, Todd Eury and Stephen Beckman, CEO of YARAL Pharma. The discussion explores YARAL Pharma's unique approach to the U.S. generics market, its commitment to innovation and accessibility, and the company's philosophy of “Doing Things Differently” by redefining what it means to be a generics partner. Stephen Beckman also shares insights into YARAL's growth and key milestones since launching its first product in 2023, including the expansion of its product portfolio, investment in business development, and focus on building a strong company culture.

On this episode of This Week in Pharmacy, we examine three major forces shaping healthcare today: the global impact of conflict on health security, the continued evolution of personalized specialty pharmacy care, and the over-the-counter products patients rely on most.   We open the show with Aman Gupta, Managing Partner, Asia-Pacific at SPAG FINN Partners, and contributor author at MedikaLife. Aman joins TWIRx to discuss his latest MedikaLife article, which argues that global conflict is quietly undermining health security by redirecting funding, attention, and infrastructure away from healthcare and toward defense priorities.   As military spending rises, health systems—especially in low- and middle-income countries—face growing pressure from shrinking access, rising costs, workforce shortages, disrupted supply chains, weakened disease surveillance, and reduced emergency preparedness. Conflicts in Ukraine, Gaza, and Sudan demonstrate how attacks on healthcare systems, displacement, malnutrition, and shortages of essential medicines can rapidly turn health access into a survival issue. Aman urges policymakers to treat health as strategic security infrastructure, not as a secondary social expense.   TWIRx also gives a special shout out to the Indian Pharmaceutical Association, recognizing its continued leadership and advocacy for the pharmacy profession.   Next, we welcome Dr. Chris Antypas, PharmD, with Perigon Pharmacy 360, for a discussion on how specialty pharmacy is becoming increasingly personalized. As complex therapies continue to advance, pharmacists are playing a critical role in ensuring medications and treatment plans are customized to optimize patient care. We explore how technology, workflow processes, clinical expertise, and pharmacists who deeply understand specific disease states are essential to successful specialty pharmacy outcomes.   To wrap up the episode, returning guest Shanley Chien Pierce, Senior Editor, Health at U.S. News & World Report, joins us to review the latest OTC medicine and health product evaluations. Top-rated products include Children's Delsym for coughs, Unisom for sleep, and Pedialyte for electrolytes, along with skincare favorites such as La Roche-Posay for retinol and Aquaphor for lip balm.   For the full list covering more than 128 categories, visit the U.S. News Best OTC Medicine & Health Products rankings.   Sponsored by Perigon Pharmacy 360 Listen & Subscribe Stay connected with This Week in Pharmacy and the Pharmacy Podcast Network for conversations with pharmacy leaders, healthcare innovators, policy experts, and industry voices shaping the future of care.

On this episode of the Counter Talk™ Podcast, host Jason Callori sits down with Bryan Lowe, Director of Government Relations at Cardinal Health, for a deep dive into the political landscape of 2026. As state legislators begin a new legislative session, Jason and Bryan dive into state-level priorities, anticipated challenges and the key issues already dominating the agenda, including PBM reform, state budgets, and evolving scope of practice discussions.   Tune in for essential insights into the legislative year ahead!

This is the Pharmacy Podcast Network's ASEMBIA 2026 rewind! We're dedicated to bringing you inside coverage of the pharmacy nation's biggest events with on the street style interviews with keynote speakers, attendees, exhibitors, and recurring guests who make each year special.  This is part five of our six part series! We'd like to thank PantherX Rare for sponsoring this episode! On this episode we interview: Katie DiLorenzo, PharmD SVP - PantherRx Austin Russian - PantherRx Autumn Santeler -  Polar Tech Industries Ben Heiser - Lumicera Health Services Caroline Girardeau, PharmD, MBA ACHC Chris Stewart - Petauri Natalie Bedford - McKesson

What's the difference between marketing and advertising and why does it matter for your pharmacy?  In this episode of the Bottom Line Pharmacy Podcast, Austin Murray sits down with Bruce Kneeland, longtime independent pharmacy advocate and host of the Pharmacy Crossroads podcast, for a candid conversation about what it really takes to grow an independent pharmacy in today's competitive landscape. Bruce shares his fascinating journey from a chance job posting at BYU that landed him in Fargo, North Dakota, to senior roles at Health Mart, AmerisourceBergen, and eventually becoming a consultant and road-tripper who has visited pharmacies coast to coast. In this episode, Bruce and Austin cover: - Marketing vs. advertising and why confusing the two is costing pharmacies patients - The word-of-mouth myth and why relying on it alone is "killing you slowly" - Messaging that connects how to talk about complex services like compounding in language patients actually understand - The B2B opportunity and why your real customer for compounding and specialty services might be the prescriber, not the patient And more!

This is the Pharmacy Podcast Network's ASEMBIA 2026 rewind! We're dedicated to bringing you inside coverage of the pharmacy nation's biggest events with on the street style interviews with keynote speakers, attendees, exhibitors, and recurring guests who make each year special.  This is part four of our six part series! We'd like to thank JB Consulting for sponsoring this episode!   On this episode we interview: Shaun Jensen - JB Consulting Group Lindsay Greenleaf - ADVI Magnar Kvilhaug - Odin Pharmacy Innovations LLC Marina Allen - RxAccess Partners Matt Hare - CoverMyMeds Richard Brook - Better Health Worldwide Valerie Mondelli and Colin Banas - DrFirst

On this episode of This Week in Pharmacy, we examine two major forces reshaping the profession: the unfinished business of pharmacist provider status and the legal landscape around direct-to-consumer pharmaceutical distribution. In part one, Erik Abel, PharmD, MBA, discusses his May 2026 analysis, “So Pharmacists Want to Be a Provider: Where the Profession Lost Its Way and Perhaps a Path to Get Back.” Abel argues that pharmacy's provider-status challenge is not a lack of clinical evidence, but a lack of operational infrastructure: credentialing, payer contracting, revenue cycle management, interoperability, and scalable business models. In part two, Darshan Kulkarni, PharmD, Esq., joins the show to discuss direct-to-consumer pharmaceutical distribution, legal risk, regulatory scrutiny, telehealth-linked prescribing, manufacturer strategy, and what pharmacists need to understand as drug distribution moves closer to the patient. This week in pharmacy news, Pittsburgh-area pharmacies continue to face uneven access to Adderall and other ADHD medications, years after the FDA first identified shortages in 2022. Patients are still calling multiple pharmacies, switching medications, rationing doses, or going without treatment as availability varies by dosage, formulation, manufacturer, and wholesaler. Pharmacists are also using medication therapy management to protect older adults from preventable medication-related harm. MTM reviews can identify risky prescriptions and OTC products, including diphenhydramine, duplicate therapies, drug interactions, and long-term proton pump inhibitor use that may need reassessment. In 340B news, CVS Health is facing federal lawsuits from major health systems alleging CVS Specialty and WellPartner improperly retained approximately $250 million in savings that should have gone back to covered entities. The litigation adds pressure to debates over PBM integration, contract pharmacy arrangements, and 340B transparency. On Capitol Hill, lawmakers are pressing the Department of Defense to commit to annual audits of the TRICARE pharmacy contract as concerns continue around PBM conflicts of interest, reimbursement practices, network adequacy, and access for independent and community pharmacies.

This is the Pharmacy Podcast Network's ASEMBIA 2026 rewind! We're dedicated to bringing you inside coverage of the pharmacy nation's biggest events with on the street style interviews with keynote speakers, attendees, exhibitors, and recurring guests who make each year special.  This is part three of our six part series! We'd like to thank Pergion Pharmacy 360 for sponsoring this episode! Chris Antypas PharmD - Perigon Pharmacy 360 Chris Corsi - CassianRx Christen Roy - Inovalon Robert Ojeda - K&B Pharmacy Associates

Today's guest and I fundamentally agree on the basic premise of the body's innate wisdom and capacity to heal, especially when we view it in a broader ecological context. According to him, infertility doesn't mean the body is broken; it's actually making intelligent, adaptive, and protective decisions made by the 4 foundational systems of the body that created life in the first place based on environmental conditions, resources, safety, and energy.  Nick Dorsey, FDN-P, is a systems-based fertility and health educator, biochemist, and former chemistry educator who helps couples understand why fertility shuts down even when labs look normal and they're doing all the right things. With a Master's in biochemistry and over a decade teaching chemistry, physics, and environmental science, he translates complex biology into a clear understanding of how the body makes decisions.  Nick's research and experience supports that the body isn't broken, it's adapting intelligently to depletion, toxicity, and chronic stress, and symptoms like inflammation, fatigue, anxiety, gut dysfunction, and unexplained infertility are protective signals from a system in survival mode. Nick teaches health through the Four Pillars of biological readiness: the microbiome as the environmental interface, mitochondria as energy and resource allocators, minerals as the electrical and enzymatic stabilizers of physiology, and the nervous system as the regulator of safety and coherence.  Rather than chasing symptoms, his work restores these systems so the body can repair, regulate, and reproduce when conditions are biologically appropriate. Functional labs reveal patterns of adaptation that explain why the body is saying not now, and what it needs next. Nick works with individuals and couples through high-touch, data-informed programs, with a long-term commitment to healthy pregnancies, births, and families across generations. He's a father of two with another on the way, both born at home, and long before biochemistry he spent most of his life teaching, coaching, and supporting children, including leading a youth ministry for kids with disabilities.  Connect with Nick  via: Email: Nick@functionalchemistry.com  IG: @FunctionalChemistry YT: @FunctionalChemistry10

This is the Pharmacy Podcast Network's ASEMBIA 2026 rewind! We're dedicated to bringing you inside coverage of the pharmacy nation's biggest events with on the street style interviews with keynote speakers, attendees, exhibitors, and recurring guests who make each year special.  This is part two of our six part series! We'd like to thank Nested Knowledge for sponsoring this episode!   On this episode we interview: Keith Kallmes - Nested Knowledge Hannah Baxter and Andrew Rouff, MMIT - The Dedham Group Heather Bonome - URAC Jeremy Richardson - Gifthealth Joe Depinto - McKesson Johny Kello - MatchRx Shawn Griffin - URAC  

This week, This Week in Pharmacy examines several stories shaping the business, clinical, and legal future of pharmacy practice. In TWIRx News from Pharmacy Times from Megan Maroney, PharmD, BCPP, FAAPP, focused on antidepressant use, withdrawal concerns, deprescribing, and shared decision-making. The key takeaway: patients should never stop antidepressants abruptly. Pharmacists can play a vital role in reducing stigma, educating patients, and supporting safe conversations about tapering, side effects, and long-term treatment. In health technology news, FDB research presented at the 2026 AMIA Amplify Informatics Conference found that patient-specific, risk-based medication guidance reduced pharmacy alert volume by 70% in a high-volume community pharmacy setting. The model consolidates alerts into one actionable message tied to the patient's most relevant risk, helping reduce alert fatigue and improve workflow. Finally, we review a federal court ruling in Eli Lilly's lawsuit against Houston-based Empower Pharmacy over compounded tirzepatide versions of Mounjaro and Zepbound. The judge dismissed key federal trademark and Texas unfair competition claims, while allowing other state claims to continue. Andy Crawford, with Keysource is back on TWIRx talking about the U.S. Supreme Court taking up Hikma Pharmaceuticals USA Inc. v. Amarin Pharma Inc., a case that could significantly affect generic drug competition. At issue is whether Hikma's marketing materials and public communications around its generic version of Amarin's fish oil-based cardiovascular drug improperly promoted a still-patented use. Hikma and the broader generic industry argue the case is about protecting “skinny label” rules, which allow generics to carve out patented indications while still bringing lower-cost medications to market. For pharmacists, the decision could influence generic availability, substitution confidence, pricing pressure, and how manufacturers communicate with providers and pharmacies. Thanks to our sponsors, CassianRx and IPC, for supporting independent pharmacy, innovation, and the future of patient-centered care.

This is the Pharmacy Podcast Network's ASEMBIA 2026 rewind! We're dedicated to bringing you inside coverage of the pharmacy nation's biggest events with on the street style interviews with keynote speakers, attendees, exhibitors, and recurring guests who make each year special.  This is part one of our six part series! We'd like to thank Clearway Health for sponsoring this episode!   On this episode we interview:   Allison Arant - Clearway Health Jennifer Noonan - Accessia Health  Aleata Postell - CenterWell Derek Dennis, PharmD - Clearway Health  Dr. Shafaat Pirani, PharmD, BCGP - Wellgistics Health Meghna Misra - Claritas Rx

In this episode of Executive Dose, Marc Essensa, CEO at IPC, joins the conversation to discuss what leadership looks like inside community pharmacy during one of the most pressured moments in the profession. The episode explores how vision, strategy, ethics, and creative thinking can help independent pharmacies not only survive, but compete and grow.  Marc and Stephen examine the realities facing pharmacy owners today, including reimbursement pressure, shrinking margins, labor challenges, operational overload, and the emotional toll of pharmacy closures. The discussion moves beyond day-to-day survival and focuses on what separates leaders who react from those who lead with clarity and discipline. The episode also highlights the importance of building a business model that can compete, using partnerships, technology, operational efficiency, and new service models to create long-term value. Marc also speaks to the role of business ethics and trust, emphasizing that in community pharmacy, leadership character is not optional — it is part of the business strategy. Key Topics Leadership under pressure in community pharmacy How pharmacy owners can lead with vision during uncertainty Strategic mistakes that weaken independent pharmacies Operational efficiency, differentiation, and growth opportunities The role of IPC in helping pharmacies compete Why ethics, transparency, and trust matter in pharmacy leadership Creativity, courage, and innovation in the future of community pharmacy  

A strong marketing strategy depends on the variety and relevance of your content. In this episode, we dive into what a diverse content strategy is, why it matters, and how it can elevate your marketing efforts. We'll highlight the key benefits of producing varied content, common pitfalls to avoid, and practical tips for integrating different content types across your channels. Tune in to learn how to engage your audience more effectively, strengthen your online presence, and make your marketing work harder for you.

  Today's guest on the podcast shares how to proactively preserve both one's health span and “beauty span”: the visible vitality, confidence, and connection to self over time. We got into some juicy and controversial topics around aging and the beauty industry, as well sustainability. My guest asserts that aging is not a passive process, it is something we can actively manage. Her mission is to help people understand that beauty, energy, and longevity are interconnected. When you support the body at a cellular and hormonal level, you don't just look better, you function better. Dr. Sofia Din is a board-certified Family Physician with over 25 years of medical experience and advanced training in Geriatrics. She began her career in hospital medicine and long-term care, where she served as a Medical Director, before shifting her focus from disease management to proactive longevity and anti-aging medicine. She is the Medical Director of Juvanni Medical P.C. in Westchester, New York, where she integrates aesthetics, hormonal health, and advanced non-surgical technologies to help patients navigate menopause, andropause, metabolic slowdown, and chronic skin failure. Dr. Din is also the author of Do We Really Need Botox? and the host of the podcast Bathroom Diaries, where she explores the science, psychology, and cultural dimensions of aging, beauty, and self-perception. Connect with Sofia via: — Juvanni Med Spa: Email: juvannimedspa@gmail.com  Website: Botox Guru at Juvanni Med Spa FB: Juvanni Med Spa IG: @drjuvanni YT: @DrJuvanni Twitter/X: @JuvanniMedSpa Linked In: Juvanni Medical — Dr. Sofia Din: FB: Sofia Din IG: @therealdrjuvanni YT: @DrJuvanni TikTok: @botoxguru Linked In: Sofia Din Podcast (Spotify): Bathroom Diaries w. Dr. Sofia Din — Minerva Life: YT: @minervalife6529 TikTok: @sofiadinmd Visit https://marinabuksov.com for more holistic content.  Music from https://www.purple-planet.com.  Disclaimer: Statements herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Products listed are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any diseases.

Sponsored by Rx4Route This Week in Pharmacy returns with a timely two-part episode focused on pharmacy operations, medication access, and the growing responsibility of healthcare communicators in the age of AI. In our first segment, we welcome Joseph Dymowski, PharmD, CEO of Centennial Pharmacy Services, and Doniyor Sattarov, Vice President of Operations at Rx4Route, for a conversation about expanding long-term care pharmacy at home. As more patients age in place, pharmacies must rethink delivery, logistics, documentation, and patient communication as essential parts of care. Delivery is no longer just a convenience. It is a critical extension of pharmacy services. Reliable routing, real-time tracking, and proof of delivery help pharmacies improve adherence, reduce operational friction, and build stronger trust with patients, caregivers, and providers. Expanding LTC pharmacy-at-home services, building scalable delivery workflows, improving route efficiency, using delivery technology to support compliance, and why logistics may become a major competitive advantage for pharmacies. This episode is sponsored by Rx4Route, pharmacy delivery software designed to help pharmacies streamline delivery operations, optimize routes, track orders, and improve proof-of-delivery workflows. In our second segment, we speak with **Vincent Grippi, CEO of Grippi Media, about the dangers of AI-generated misinformation and the higher standard required in healthcare communications. As AI becomes more common in content creation, communications professionals must protect accuracy, credibility, and patient trust. In healthcare, misinformation can influence clinical understanding, damage reputations, and create confusion across the industry. That is why content for healthcare professionals must be reviewed, verified, and guided by human judgment. AI misinformation in healthcare, responsible content development, source verification, editorial review, subject-matter expertise, and how communicators can use AI without sacrificing trust. This episode connects two critical forms of trust in pharmacy: operational trust at the patient's door and informational trust across every communication channel. Featured Guests: Joseph Dymowski, PharmD— CEO, Centennial Pharmacy Services Doniyor Sattarov— Vice President of Operations, Rx4Route Vincent Grippi— CEO, Grippi Media

This episode we look at a bunch of statements from the FDA and from HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. And of course there are peptides to talk about these days. Does anyone really know what's going on with those? Our deep dive is a special one: Our guest is Al Carter, the CEO of the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy, and he gives us a totally different perspective on the regulatory landscape at the level that affects pharmacists every day. Links from the podcast: The latest FDA statement on DTE: https://fllw.me/4sL6zXw  The Coalition for Compounding Excellence's first audit process guide (compounding records and quality control): https://fllw.me/3Oew1qr  FDA Law Blog on the state of peptide compounding: https://fllw.me/4cpFF2C  National Association of Boards of Pharmacy: https://nabp.pharmacy  Join APC! https://a4pc.org/join 

On this episode of the Cardinal Health™ Counter Talk™ Podcast, host Jason Callori explores the benefits of co-branding your pharmacy with the Medicine Shoppe International, Inc. (MSI) franchise. The episode features Tony Ibrahim, a multi-store owner with the Medicine Shoppe® Pharmacy network, and Lance Mindt, a MSI Franchise Business Consultant.   Tony and Lance discuss how pharmacies can benefit from co-branding their stores while maintaining their local brand identity through the co-branding model. Learn how independent pharmacies can preserve their local identity, streamline operations and foster growth while gaining the support and expertise of a national franchise.   Click here to learn more about co-branding. 

Welcome back to PPN – The Precision Medicine Pharmacist. In part one of our series, Precision Psychiatry in Practice – A Pharmacist–Physician Collaboration, we explored how a collaborative approach can begin to reshape psychiatric care — building trust, aligning perspectives, and creating space for more personalized treatment. Today, we move deeper into what that looks like in real-world, integrative medicine psychiatry. I'm excited to welcome back Dr. Saba Arshad, joined by Dr. Afshan Khan, as we explore how their partnership brings together different clinical perspectives to care for the whole patient — not just symptoms, but the broader context of mental health, lifestyle, and individualized needs. In this episode, Precision in Practice: Real Stories, Real Results in Integrative Psychiatry, we focus on the human side of collaboration. How do two clinicians with different training and strengths come together to approach complex cases? What does shared decision-making really look like in practice? And how does this integrative model shape better patient outcomes? We'll walk through real patient cases, explore the dynamics of their collaboration, and uncover how this partnership continues to evolve to meet patients where they are. If part one introduced the foundation, today's episode brings that collaboration to life. Let's dive in.

AI in healthcare is no longer a futuristic concept. It's already answering the phones at your local CVS. We're pulling back the curtain on how AI is currently being used in pharmacy practice, from encrypted "VA GPT" systems for note-writing to controversial new phone bots that some patients claim are a "stain on society". We dive into the big news of the CVS and Google Cloud partnership to launch Health100, a platform designed to integrate your refills, copays, and even wearable health data into a single AI-driven hub. While the promise of centralized care sounds like a dream, the "real-world" experience can feel like a nightmare. We react to a brutal Reddit thread and even call a CVS live to demonstrate the frustration of wrestling with a robot that refuses to transfer you to a human. Whether you're a "tinfoil hat" wearer worried about data leaks or someone just trying to get a prescription after surgery, you need to hear the clinical and personal reality of the AI takeover. This show is intended for educational and informational purposes.

Congratulations to Logan Eury and his new wife Emily, got married today, May 1, 2026!  This C.O. Bigelow Collab Introduces the 188-Year-Old Pharmacy to a New Generation Abbode is taking over the Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy-approved shop for a month-long pop-up. https://fashionista.com/2026/05/co-bigelow-abbode-pop-up-carolyn-bessette-impact  The article highlights how a pop-up and renewed interest in C.O. Bigelow has been fueled by the cultural resurgence of Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy's minimalist style, amplified by media and social buzz. This renewed attention has driven significant foot traffic and sales, showing how storytelling, nostalgia, and “quiet luxury” aesthetics can translate into real retail impact.   Q&A: Mayo Clinic leaders share strategies for managing high-cost drugs without breaking the bank | Asembia AXS26 Summit https://www.managedhealthcareexecutive.com/view/q-a-mayo-clinic-leaders-share-strategies-for-managing-high-cost-drugs-without-breaking-the-bank-asembia-axs26-summit Mayo Clinic leaders emphasize that managing high-cost drugs requires clear definitions, structured formulary review processes, and multidisciplinary collaboration to balance cost, access, and clinical value. They highlight the importance of evaluating safety, efficacy, financial impact, and site-of-care decisions together, while noting that non-340B systems face increasing pressure from rising costs and reimbursement constraints. Ultimately, success depends on stronger alignment between health systems, manufacturers, and payers to sustain access without compromising quality of care.  Where Gross-to-net Pressure Actually Lives After Launch Today's guest post comes from Cindy Baksh, Chief Product Officer at ConnectiveRx. https://www.drugchannels.net/2026/05/where-gross-to-net-pressure-actually.html The article explains that “gross-to-net pressure” isn't driven by a single factor, but by a combination of rebates, discounts, fees, and policy changes that continue to reshape how drug pricing actually works behind the scenes. As the industry shifts toward a “net pricing” model, traditional rebate-driven strategies are weakening, forcing manufacturers, PBMs, and pharmacies to rethink how value and profits are generated. Today's featured guest is Dr. Ndidiamaka Okpareke PharmD for Congress Dr. Ndidiamaka “Didi” Okpareke, PharmD, is a pharmacist, entrepreneur, and political candidate running for Congress in New Mexico's 1st Congressional District. A first-generation Nigerian-American, she built her career in healthcare after graduating from the University of New Mexico College of Pharmacy and went on to found and lead a successful compounding pharmacy serving her community.  Motivated by nearly two decades of patient care experience, Okpareke entered the political arena to address challenges such as healthcare access, rising costs, and the shortage of providers in New Mexico. Running as a Republican, she emphasizes strengthening healthcare systems, supporting economic growth, and preserving opportunity for future generations, positioning herself as a community-focused leader bringing frontline healthcare insight into public policy.  This special episode highlights how TJM Labs is redefining pharmacy operations through AI-driven automation, bringing together insights from industry leaders Bhavesh Patel, PharmD—CEO of Carepoint Pharmacy—and Jonathan Adly, PharmD, MBA—CEO of TJM Labs. At the center of the conversation is how modern pharmacies are facing rising prescription volumes, staffing constraints, and increasing operational complexity, and why traditional manual workflows can no longer keep pace. TJM Labs addresses this challenge by deploying AI-powered “digital workers” that automate tasks like prescription intake, data entry, and patient communication—allowing pharmacy teams to shift their focus back to patient care and clinical decision-making.  Through the lens of both operator and innovator, the discussion explores how AI is not replacing pharmacy professionals, but augmenting them—reducing burnout, improving accuracy, and enabling scalable growth. With automation handling up to the majority of repetitive workload and delivering measurable ROI, TJM Labs represents a new model where technology and pharmacy expertise work together to create more efficient, patient-centered operations. 

Tennessee lawmakers have passed a major pharmacy reform bill aimed at pharmacy benefit managers, or PBMs, by barring companies from owning both a PBM and a pharmacy. The legislation is widely seen as targeting CVS Health, which owns Caremark and operates pharmacies across the state. Supporters say the bill is designed to curb vertical integration, restore fair competition, and protect independent pharmacies from reimbursement practices they view as harmful to patient access and community pharmacy survival. CVS has pushed back hard, warning that the new law could force it to shut down its 134 Tennessee pharmacy locations and trigger a legal challenge. The company argues the measure would reduce access for patients and does not directly address broader PBM issues like pricing or formularies. This Tennessee fight reflects a larger national battle over PBM reform, pharmacy ownership, market power, and the future of prescription drug access.  

Clinical Pearls, Pain Pod edition: Pain Pearls Part 2 (of many) with Dr. Sing Ping Chow, PharmD as we discuss methadone, buprenorphine, gabapentin, pain pharmacists, AI, and beyond! A cornucopia of pain conundrums and potential solutions and/or tools to help mitigate. All here, nicely packaged, randomly, in one episode of the Pain Pod! One of many more to come, in a miniseries titled: “Pain Pearls”, only here on the Pain Pod! Come one, come all, to the Pain Pod!!! P.S. Want to contribute or hear about a pain pearl of your own? Message Pain Guy on www.painguy.us or LinkedIn to directly reach Mark and have your voice heard!