Podcasts about 340b

Dr. Robert Popovian is a pharmacist, and economist with a deep background in research and public policy. In this episode we have a nuanced discussion on policy impacting pharmacy including PBMs, President Trumps Most Favored Nation Executive Order, Rebates, and insurance premiums.    Links to resources referenced in discussion: • Pioneer Institute, 340B tool: https://pioneerinstitute.org/340babuse/ • Pioneer Institute, IRA tool: https://pioneerinstitute.org/the-inflation-reduction-act-ira-overview/ • Editorial regarding TrumpRX: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/promise-trumprx-robert-popovian-vskne/?trackingId=dtiG1P%2B%2BSDq6adLfFeEbeg%3D%3D • Pioneer Institute, IRA report: https://pioneerinstitute.org/wp-content/uploads/Prescription-Drug-Price-Controls-06252025.pdf  • GHLF tool, Impact of Accumulators and Maximizers on Premiums: https://cutt.ly/Rr9Di7Vf • Conquest Advisors website: https://conquestadvisors.godaddysites.com/

Dr. Robert Popovian is a pharmacist, and economist with a deep background in research and public policy. In this episode we have a nuanced discussion on policy impacting pharmacy including PBMs, President Trumps Most Favored Nation Executive Order, Rebates, and insurance premiums.    Links to resources referenced in discussion: • Pioneer Institute, 340B tool: https://pioneerinstitute.org/340babuse/ • Pioneer Institute, IRA tool: https://pioneerinstitute.org/the-inflation-reduction-act-ira-overview/ • Editorial regarding TrumpRX: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/promise-trumprx-robert-popovian-vskne/?trackingId=dtiG1P%2B%2BSDq6adLfFeEbeg%3D%3D • Pioneer Institute, IRA report: https://pioneerinstitute.org/wp-content/uploads/Prescription-Drug-Price-Controls-06252025.pdf  • GHLF tool, Impact of Accumulators and Maximizers on Premiums: https://cutt.ly/Rr9Di7Vf • Conquest Advisors website: https://conquestadvisors.godaddysites.com/

340B Insight wants to make our podcast the best it can be. To help us succeed, we'd like to hear your thoughts. Please take just a few minutes to complete our listener survey, and we will enter you in a drawing to win a $100 gift card! To participate, please go to 340bpodcast.org/survey.The large and growing field of specialty pharmacy means new opportunities and challenges for ensuring patients receive the specialty drugs they need and stay on the therapies that might save their lives. St. Luke's Health System, based in Boise, Idaho, has approached this mission by embedding clinical pharmacists in the specialty pharmacy space and using 340B as a critical tool. We speak with Josh Weber, senior director of ambulatory retail and specialty pharmacy services at St. Luke's, to learn more.How Clinical Pharmacists Can Be a “Value Multiplier”Embedding clinical pharmacists in their specialty pharmacies improves operations in myriad ways. These pharmacists can take the burden off other providers by meeting with patients to go over their drug regimens, coordinating care, and running split-fill programs to reduce waste. At St. Luke's, the approach has improved patient adherence to medications and reduced the time between the specialty prescription and the patient having the medication in hand to less than 48 hours – far quicker than the industry standard.340B Savings Are Key to the InvestmentWeber says cost savings from 340B are critical in calculating how they embed resources into specialty pharmacy, noting that improving adherence and retention can increase 340B savings exponentially. These savings then can enable health systems such as St. Luke's to reinvest in their internal specialty pharmacies, provide more patient cost assistance and unreimbursed care, and ultimately shield themselves from headwinds such as drugmaker contract pharmacy restrictions.Embedding Pharmacists Depends on Hospital-Specific FactorsFor hospitals considering following the lead of St. Luke's Health System, Weber said a variety of factors such as patient volume, payer mix, and drug spend can call for a variety of service models and investment strategies. Harnessing data such as heat maps showing where patients are and which clinics they visit can inform how best to embed pharmacists and ultimately improve specialty pharmacy care for patients.Resources:Drugmakers Release 340B Rebate Pilot Program DescriptionsHRSA 340B Rebate Model Pilot ProgramBeacon Rebate Model Resources

This podcast will provide members with an update on federal and state action over the past 6 months on the 340B program. We'll talk through 340B policy shifts at the federal level and what's happening in the states. We'll also discuss where 340B advocacy goes from here.  The information presented during the podcast reflects solely the opinions of the presenter. The information and materials are not, and are not intended as, a comprehensive source of drug information on this topic. The contents of the podcast have not been reviewed by ASHP, and should neither be interpreted as the official policies of ASHP, nor an endorsement of any product(s), nor should they be considered as a substitute for the professional judgment of the pharmacist or physician.

Good morning from Pharma Daily: the podcast that brings you the most important developments in the pharmaceutical and biotech world. Today, we're diving into a series of transformative events reshaping the landscape of healthcare, from strategic mergers and regulatory shifts to groundbreaking advancements in drug development.Let's begin with a monumental merger that signals a shift towards more integrated healthcare solutions. The $48.7 billion acquisition of Kenvue, a consumer health spinout from Johnson & Johnson, by Kimberly-Clark illustrates the growing convergence between consumer health products and traditional pharmaceuticals. This strategic move highlights a trend towards expanding product portfolios and enhancing distribution networks, aiming to better address comprehensive patient needs. Mergers like these could redefine how healthcare products are marketed and delivered, emphasizing holistic approaches to patient care.Turning to regulatory news, the resignation of Dr. George Tidmarsh from the FDA due to controversial communications has spotlighted the ongoing challenges within regulatory oversight. This incident underscores the delicate balance regulators must maintain in ensuring transparency while safeguarding sensitive information. Such developments are crucial as they directly affect public trust in drug approval processes and the industry's ability to navigate complex regulatory landscapes.In scientific advancements, Roche is making significant progress with its drug Gazyva for autoimmune diseases. Following FDA approval for lupus-related kidney disease, promising Phase 3 trial results for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) are propelling Roche closer to offering new hope for patients with this chronic condition, which currently has limited effective treatments. This success underscores the potential of targeted therapies in transforming treatment paradigms for autoimmune diseases.Eli Lilly's $3 billion investment in a new manufacturing facility in the Netherlands marks a strategic effort to bolster oral medicine production globally. This expansion not only reinforces Lilly's commitment to meeting global demand but also reflects an industry-wide trend towards investing in scalable manufacturing capabilities. Such moves are critical for ensuring supply chain resilience and addressing rising healthcare needs worldwide.In legal news, Pfizer's fierce competition with Metsera over Novo Nordisk's counteroffer highlights the high stakes involved in securing promising assets within the biotech sector—a sector particularly focused on obesity treatment due to its substantial market growth potential. The outcome of this legal battle could influence future strategic partnerships and acquisitions, demonstrating the intense competition among pharmaceutical giants.Meanwhile, UniQure faces challenges as its gene therapy for Huntington's disease encounters regulatory hurdles with the FDA. Despite initial expectations as a groundbreaking treatment, this setback emphasizes the rigorous scrutiny gene therapies undergo to ensure safety and efficacy. Such hurdles highlight the complexities of advancing novel therapies through regulatory pathways.Policy developments are also reshaping drug pricing structures as evidenced by HRSA's approval of eight drugmakers' plans for a 340B rebate model pilot program. This initiative aims at optimizing pricing structures while balancing cost containment with access to essential medications for underserved populations—a critical concern in today's healthcare landscape.International collaborations continue to play a pivotal role in accelerating drug discovery and development. Neurocrine Biosciences' $880 million deal with China's TransThera Sciences exemplifies such partnerships, focusing on emerging therapeutic areas like immunology. These collaborations are vital in leveraging global expertise and resources to drive innovatSupport the show

In this episode, Greg and Rob share initial reactions to the HRSA update on 340B rebate model implementation. They'll review the communication provided by HRSA on October 30th on their website, as well as discuss some of the manufacturer letters published on October 31st, that formally communicate rebate policies to 340B stakeholders.   HRSA 340B Rebate Website: https://www.hrsa.gov/opa/340b-model-pilot-program Beacon Manufacturer Resources Website (includes letters): https://cm.beaconchannelmanagement.com/pages/resources   Email us at 340BUnscripted@spendmend.com with questions, comments and topic suggestions!

Between new developments on a rebate pilot program, discussions of possible cuts to Medicare payment for 340B drugs, and new action in states nationwide, this fall has been a jam-packed season for 340B. We sit down with 340B Health President and CEO Maureen Testoni to break down the latest.Questions Remain About January's 340B Rebate Pilot After the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) released 340B rebate pilot program guidance over the summer, all nine manufacturers of the 10 drugs subject to Medicare price caps applied to HRSA to implement rebates for the drugs starting in January. Testoni says we expect to find out which plans are approved in early November, as drugmakers need to give eight weeks of notice so covered entities can prepare for the change. Testoni says questions remain about the rebate pilot, but information that the drugmakers' rebate vendor has released so far provides enough detail for hospitals to start preparing for both rebates and price caps.Potential Medicare Cuts Expected To Target 340B HospitalsEarlier this year, the Trump administration released an executive order directing the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to survey hospitals on drug acquisition costs with the goal of using the results to set payment rates for Medicare Part B drugs starting in 2027. Testoni says she is concerned the proposed survey will lead to CMS targeting only 340B drugs for cuts that could bring payment rates down to actual acquisition costs, which would be a steeper cut than what the agency imposed during the first Trump administration.States Keep Moving on Contract Pharmacy Protections, 340B MandatesNearly 20 states have contract pharmacy protection laws in place and a small number of drugmakers have sued to block all these statutes. But Testoni says so far, courts have denied those requests and the laws have stayed in effect despite significant opposition advocacy by drugmakers. An increasing number of states also have enacted laws requiring 340B hospitals to report substantial data on their 340B costs and savings, and some are looking to limit how hospitals can use those savings.Resources:Senate Hearing Features Both Bipartisan Support for 340B and Calls for ReformsRead Our Comments on CBO's 340B Growth ReportReview Our 340B Rebate Pilot and IRA ResourcesBeacon Shares New Details on 340B Rebate Pilot Implementation

Rural Health News is a weekly segment of Rural Health Today, a podcast by Hillsdale Hospital. News sources for this episode: National Rural Health Association, “340B Drug Pricing Program & Pharmacy,” https://www.ruralhealth.us/advocacy/advocacy-priority-areas/340b-drug-pricing-program National Rural Health Association, “Rural 340B: NRHA Factsheet and Talking Points,” https://www.ruralhealth.us/nationalruralhealth/media/documents/advocacy/2025/rural-340b.pdf Michigan Health & Hospital Association, “340B Drug Discount Program.” https://www.mha.org/issues-advocacy/federal-issues/340b/ American Hospital Association, “Fact Sheet: The 340B Drug Pricing Program,” October 2025, https://www.aha.org/fact-sheets/fact-sheet-340b-drug-pricing-program Rural Health Today is a production of Hillsdale Hospital in Hillsdale, Michigan and a member of the Health Podcast Network. Our host is JJ Hodshire, our producer is Kyrsten Newlon, and our audio engineer is Kenji Ulmer. Special thanks to our special guests for sharing their expertise on the show, and also to the Hillsdale Hospital marketing team. If you want to submit a question for us to answer on the podcast or learn more about Rural Health Today, visit ruralhealthtoday.com.

America's hospitals will soon face an unprecedented rebate-based prescription drug model, come Jan. 1 – that's when there will be as many as 10 major drugs subject to Medicare price caps. This development is expected to create administrative and financial challenges for hospitals, which will have to pay the commercial price for such drugs while waiting for the rebates.For analysis and context, Maureen Testoni, president and CEO for 340B, will be the special guest during the next live edition of Monitor Monday. She will also review a recent Congressional Budget Office (CBO) report, featured in a recent Senate committee hearing, that includes some misrepresentations about why the 340B program has grown in recent years.As a special bonus, the longtime Internet broadcast produced by RACmonitor, will feature senior healthcare consultant Drew Updike, MD, who will recognize the tireless work being performed by the employees of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG) who continue to work despite the federal shutdown, now in its fifth week.The weekly broadcast will also include these instantly recognizable features:Monday Rounds: Ronald Hirsch, MD, vice president of R1 RCM, will be making his Monday Rounds.The RAC Report: Healthcare attorney Knicole Emanuel, partner at the law firm of Nelson Mullins, will report the latest news about auditors.Risky Business: Healthcare attorney David Glaser, shareholder in the law offices of Fredrikson & Byron, will join the broadcast with his trademark segment.Legislative Update: Adam Brenman, senior legislative affairs analyst for Zelis, will report on the news happening at the intersection of healthcare and congressional action.

The fellas are reveling in the Democratic Party's absolute chaos, starting with the government shutdown. Anonymous Democratic senators confess they would vote to reopen the government but are "terrified of getting the guillotine" from the deranged grassroots—a direct admission that their base is driving the insanity. The Civil War's second front is a primary race for a chance to challenge Susan Collins in Maine, and it is a certified freak show. Chuck Schumer's establishment candidate, an ancient, unrelatable governor, is facing off against a Bernie bro who called himself an "Antifa super soldier." Maybe Graham Platner would get further in politics with less 1942 SS tattoos.  Secretary of the Army Dan Driscoll gives us a behind-the-scenes look at the aggressive, transformational change happening at the Army. Driscoll doesn't hold back, detailing the utter waste of taxpayer money caused by decades of calcified bureaucracy, like how the Army pays double for chicken because of an absurd 1930s mandate. He explains how he and the Chief of Staff are cutting $48 billion in expected spending to prioritize the modern warfighter, focusing on next-generation technology, and why President Trump's “peace through strength” approach and air cover have been vital to these efforts. 00:00 - Government Shutdown Drama: "Guillotine" Fear06:06 - Shutdown as Virginia Strategy09:50 - Merkley's 15-Hour Yawn-Fest & Katherine Clark's "Leeeverage" Gaffe16:10 - Maine Senate Primary: Nazi Tattoos, Antifa Soldiers, and the Establishment's Pick44:48 - King of the Hill: George Conway vs. Sarah Longwell58:33 - Secretary of the Army Dan DriscollOur Sponsors:➢Tell Republicans in Congress stop Dick Durbin's takeover of your credit card before it's too late - https://electronicpaymentscoalition.org/➢Big tax-exempt hospitals abuse the 340B markup program, tell congress to fix 340B.https://phrma.org/340Bmarkup➢Find out the true power of America's oil and natural gas. Go to https://lightsonenergy.org/➢The Partnership to Fight Chronic Disease wants to act sooner on Alzheimer's, not later. Learn more at https://www.pfcdalz.org/➢Want to make a difference in your community? https://takeonesmallstep.org/ Join AFP's grass-roots efforts at https://afpvolunteer.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this week's Healthcare Preview podcast, Debbie Curtis and Rodney Whitlock join Erin Fuller to discuss the ongoing government shutdown and the upcoming Senate HELP Committee hearing on the 340B program.

Pink Sheet Executive Editor Derrick Gingery, Senior Writer Sarah Karlin-Smith and Editor-in-Chief Nielsen Hobbs discuss the reasons US Food and Drug Administration Commissioner Martin Makary could have helped negotiate the Most Favored Nation drug pricing deal with Astra Zeneca (:30) and the deal's potential impact on the 340B program (16:35). They also consider the Justice Department's alternative interpretation of off-label promotion regulations and the effect on the scientific exchange of information about drugs (19:16). More On These Topics From The Pink Sheet US FDA Commissioner's Involvement In AstraZeneca Pricing Deal Raises Ethical, Legal Questions: https://insights.citeline.com/pink-sheet/market-access/pricing-debate/us-fda-commissioners-involvement-in-astrazeneca-pricing-deal-raises-ethical-legal-questions-IJV4LMTDA5E65KCOFQUQM76GCA/ EMD Serono IVF Candidate Among First US FDA Priority Voucher Recipients As Part Of MFN Deal: https://insights.citeline.com/pink-sheet/market-access/pricing-debate/emd-serono-ivf-candidate-among-first-us-fda-priority-voucher-recipients-as-part-of-mfn-deal-LKHA6VRTKRE6DJERGNCWCGMBF4/ Manufacturer Most Favored Nation Deals: How They Could Be Protected From 340B: https://insights.citeline.com/pink-sheet/market-access/pricing-debate/manufacturer-most-favored-nation-deals-how-they-could-be-protected-from-340b-FALSG7GHM5GQBFN3I5SPERJIYU/ Off-Label Promotion: DOJ May Take New Look At Scientific Information Exchange: https://insights.citeline.com/pink-sheet/legalandip/litigation/off-label-promotion-doj-may-take-new-look-at-scientific-information-exchange-R62PQJFQTRBCVGCZE57GWM3Q3Q/

About two years ago, Indiana University Health implemented a 340B-funded comprehensive medication review clinic after pharmacy staff noticed patients at their hospitals were not filling maintenance prescriptions due to high cost. Although patient assistance was available, there was not a systematic approach to connecting qualifying patients with the financial help and education they needed, and the health system started the clinic to fill that gap. IU Health Regional Pharmacy Manager of Ambulatory Services Carrie Krekeler discusses how the clinic came about and how it works to improve patient health outcomes.Improved Drug Affordability and Patient EducationWhen a prescription goes through IU Health's comprehensive medication review clinic, pharmacists and other staff will prioritize finding financial assistance for eligible individuals and teaching patients important information about taking their medications. Krekeler says clinic staff will look for discounts for all medications a patient is on and see what a patient's insurance will cover, if there are copays, and if prior authorization is needed. Staff then will connect patients to coupon cards, manufacturer assistance programs, or 340B-funded assistance through IU Health.Demonstrated ResultsIn the two years since the clinic launched, Krekeler says its success has prompted IU Health to reinvest more 340B dollars to expand its reach. Patients with heart failure and diabetes who have gone through the clinic have seen significant improvements in their key health metrics. The clinic helps patients better maintain their health and stay out of the hospital.Understanding 340B Is Vital for Such ProgramsKrekeler says IU Health was able to launch its clinic after adapting a similar initiative that UC Davis had implemented. The key to getting the IU Health clinic off the ground was obtaining buy-in from executives who understood 340B and finance and were able to see the long-term benefit in investing 340B dollars in this area.

In this special RxBenefits-sponsored episode of The ASHHRA Podcast, hosts Bo Brabo and Luke Carignan explore the dynamic pharmacy benefits landscape with experts Sarah Hearn and Wes Hill (Director of Compliance & Legal Operations). Amid the busiest legislative season yet—over 1,500 bills—they discuss PBM reforms, ERISA challenges, compounding alternatives for GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic, 340B pricing, and emerging lawsuits. Gain insights on transparency, cost savings, and compliance for healthcare HR pros navigating employee benefits.Key takeaways for healthcare HR leaders:Legislative Surge: 1,500+ state bills target PBMs, carriers, and more; expect increased reporting burdens but better data for informed decisions.ERISA Erosion Risks: States challenge federal uniformity—multi-state plans face conflicting laws; monitor for compliance headaches.Positive Reforms: New mandates empower plan sponsors with PBM data; leverage 340B and coupons to cut costs (e.g., Wegovy from $1,000 to $100/month).Compounding & Innovation: Affordable GLP-1 alternatives via telehealth, but ensure safety and avoid controlled substance pitfalls.Lawsuits to Watch: Oklahoma ERISA win; Arkansas PBM permit ban challenges interstate commerce—outcomes could reshape operations.Action Steps: Demand vendor transparency; align with ERISA; educate teams on benefits to prevent misuse and optimize savings.Essential listening for HR managing rising pharmacy costs and regulations. Spark curiosity—reach out to RxBenefits for guidance!From Our Sponsors...Optimize Pharmacy Benefits with RxBenefitsElevate your employee benefits while managing costs. Did you know hospital employees fill 25% more prescriptions annually than other industries? Ensure cost-effective, high-quality pharmacy plans by leveraging your hospital's own pharmacies. Discover smarter strategies with RxBenefits.Learn More here - https://rxbene.fit/3ZaurZNStreamline HR Compliance with oneBADGEhealthcareSimplify screening, credentialing, and compliance for healthcare HR. oneBADGEhealthcare from ISB Global offers a tailored solution to keep your workforce compliant and efficient. Built for healthcare leaders, it's your all-in-one compliance tool.Get Started here - https://isbglobalservices.com/onebadgeunitedstates/ashhra/ Support the show

Originally broadcast October 9, 2025 $44 billion in drugs that help Americans are purchased through a little-known federal discount program called 340B. The program is recognized for successfully helping hospitals, community health centers and others that fund care for low-income patients.   But that program is now facing big challenges from drugmakers, and the current government shutdown has brought new uncertainty. Reporter William Newton of 340B Report tells hosts Mark Masselli and Margaret Flinter that the shutdown has delayed approvals... Read More Read More The post Government Shutdown Stalls Drug Discount Program 340B appeared first on Healthy Communities Online.

These may include stricter eligibility criteria, increased reporting requirements and potential reductions in reimbursement. 

In this episode, Greg and Rob are joined by SpendMend colleague Heather Lynch, to talk about how H.R.1 (i.e. One Big Beautiful Bill Act, or OBBBA) could impact 340B covered entities in the long run. They'll discuss how federal Medicaid cuts projected from the bill could influence a trend in lower average DSH% for some hospitals, threatening 340B Program eligibility. They'll also have a conversation about things hospitals should consider, both in the short term and long term, to brace for the impact. In the intro, they'll also catch up on various manufacturer actions affecting 340B providers. Email us at 340BUnscripted@spendmend.com with questions and comments!

In this episode, Jamie Leonard shares her journey from clinical pharmacist to Director of Pharmacy at Benefis Health System in Great Falls, Montana. She oversees pharmacy operations across the continuum of care, including acute care, cancer and infusion centers, long-term care, critical access hospitals, and Benefis' 340B program. Jamie discusses the unique challenges of serving a largely rural and government-payer-heavy population, while emphasizing Benefis' strong commitment to community health, education, and work-life balance. She highlights key pharmacy initiatives such as expanding specialty and retail pharmacy, growing a Meds-to-Beds program, and supporting patients with timely medication access—critical in a state where patients often travel long distances.

In this episode of DC EKG, host Joe Grogan is joined by Ryan Long, Capitol Hill veteran and senior research fellow at the Paragon Institute, to unpack two big health policy debates: the 340B drug discount program and the enhanced ACA premium tax credits. Ryan explains how 340B drives higher drug spending, hospital consolidation, and rising premiums, while often benefiting wealthier hospitals over safety-net providers. He also breaks down why the temporary ACA subsidies are set to expire in 2025, the fraud and enrollment issues they've created, and what both parties are gearing up for as the fight continues.

340B savings do not just enable hospitals to provide more care, they also help hospitals pioneer innovative approaches to bringing care directly to patients. For West Virginia University Medicine, which serves a high population of Medicare and Medicaid patients, one of these 340B-funded innovations came from recognizing a need to increase cancer screening rates. WVU Medicine 340B Enterprise Director Karen Famoso tells us how the system's mobile cancer screening initiative came about.The Barriers to Cancer ScreeningWVU Medicine identified that some of the biggest social determinants of health for its West Virginia patients were relatively unique to the areas it serves. The rural state has significant travel barriers, small population areas, and high poverty rates, a combination that leaves thousands of patients without easy access to a source of primary care.Mobile Screenings Look for Breast, Lung CancersToday, WVU Medicine operates two types of mobile cancer projects: Bonnie's Bus and LUCAS. The former launched in 2009 and is a mobile mammography unit named after a patient who died because she had limited access to breast cancer screenings. Her family donated funding to the hospital to support this effort. More than a decade later, WVU Medicine introduced the mobile lung screening program LUCAS. That initiative provides low-dose CT scans to patients meeting the screening guideline using a nearly 70,000-pound tractor trailer.340B Is Key To Sustaining Mobile Screening EffortsFamoso says WVU Medicine funds its mobile cancer screening programs through grants and donations, but that is not enough to cover the full cost. That is where 340B savings can help cover the operating loss, which was almost $400,000 last year. Without those 340B savings, the health system's financial situation would not allow investments in mission-focused programs such as Bonnie's Bus and LUCAS.ResourcesLung Cancer Screening on WheelsHRSA Reviewing Rebate Pilot Proposals and CommentsSecond Federal Appeals Court Upholds State Contract Pharmacy Law

In this episode, Laura Dyrda, Vice President and Editor-in-Chief at Becker's Healthcare, highlights critical policy debates around ACA subsidies, telehealth, hospital-at-home programs, and the future of the 340B program, sharing how these developments could impact hospitals, patients, and health system sustainability.

In this episode, Greg and Rob review recent changes made to the HRSA Audit Data Request List (DRL). They also discuss some of the comments provided by the public to HRSA regarding potential 340B rebate models, debate a recent change to a manufacturer's contract pharmacy restrictions, and highlight some communication that has gone out to hospitals regarding a proposed CMS 340B drug acquisition cost survey expected in CY26. SpendMend's comments on HRSA's proposed 340B rebate model: https://www.regulations.gov/comment/HRSA-2025-0001-1115 CMS proposed Medicare Part B 340B drug acquisition cost survey template: CMS-10931 | CMS   Got questions? Email us at 340BUnscripted@spendmend.com 

In this episode, Eric Huckins, Vice President of Business Development at Lumicera Health Services, discusses how health systems can build stronger specialty pharmacy programs by navigating challenges such as 340B, payer access, and accreditation. He also highlights the role of strategic partnerships, biosimilars, and technology in improving patient care and driving growth.This episode was sponsored by Lumicera Health Services.

One important but understated aspect of 340B compliance is the importance of training new and existing team members on how the program works. But what does effective training look like? Pooja Shah, the system pharmacy manager of 340B programs at University of North Carolina Health, walks us through the key elements of an effective and engaging 340B education strategy.Setting a Baseline of 340B KnowledgeUNC Health utilizes a two-pronged strategy to 340B education for its team: didactic and interactive approaches. The didactic approach involves creating three online, standardized learning modules to educate those who are new to 340B or who interact with it indirectly as well as those who are more involved in day-to-day 340B operations. The interactive approach involves an educational and decision-making structure designed to adapt to new 340B developments in real time. Compliance Meetings Facilitate DiscussionUNC Health uses entity-level and system-level oversight committees to discuss key 340B compliance issues and relevant metrics. Shah says these meetings offer ways to inform senior leadership about key 340B changes and keep other stakeholders, such as hospital compliance and legal credentialing professionals, in the loop.340B Education Is Best When NimbleAs hospitals evaluate their 340B education efforts, Shah says it's important they explore existing resources but also work with stakeholders to discuss what would best serve them when learning about 340B. Hospitals also can change existing governance structures to incorporate 340B discussions. Shah says the ability to stay nimble and be able to quickly identify and assemble key players in the 340B space is key to keeping teams informed amid times of change.ResourcesRead Our Appeals Court Brief Opposing 340B Rebate Schemes

In this episode, Greg and Rob catch up on insights gathered and lessons learned from various forums our team has attended over the last few weeks. Also, they discuss the recently posted FAQ page provided by HRSA in response to questions around the 340B Rebate Model Pilot Program. 340B Rebate HRSA FAQ: https://www.hrsa.gov/opa/340b-model-pilot-program 340B Rebate Comments: https://www.regulations.gov/document/HRSA-2025-0001-0001

What hospitals need to do to prepare.

In this episode of Ask the Innovators, Jim Jorgenson sits down with Visante's Angela De Ianni, Managing Director, and Nivedha Poondi, Consultant, to unpack the rapid changes happening across the 340B program. From the transition to a rebate model to the ongoing challenges around DSH eligibility, our guests break down what these shifts mean for covered entities and share practical advice on how hospitals and health systems can prepare, adapt, and stay resilient. Tune in to hear expert insights on the future of 340B—and the strategies organizations can use to remain grounded and strategic in the face of uncertainty.

In this special edition of The ASHHRA Podcast, co-hosts Bo Brabo and Luke Carignan sit down with three powerhouse voices from RxBenefits—Rhiannon Klein, Sarah Hearn, and Sarah McHale—to unpack the latest seismic shift in the 340B Drug Pricing Program and what it means for hospitals, health systems, and the communities they serve.What's at Stake? HRSA's newly announced pilot rebate model for 340B—initially affecting 10 IRA drugs—threatens to upend the way covered entities access drug discounts. Instead of receiving upfront savings, hospitals must now purchase at Wholesale Acquisition Cost (WAC) and then request rebates from manufacturers. That shift could mean:Increased administrative burden and FTE needsDelayed cash flow—up to 55 days before rebate funds are receivedExpanded manufacturer access to sensitive claims dataGreater leverage for drug companies to deny rebates or restrict program accessWhy Healthcare HR Leaders Should Care This is more than a pharmacy or finance problem. The ripple effects of reduced 340B savings could force rural hospitals to cut services—or close entirely—impacting patient access, workforce health, and community stability. Key Insights from the Conversation:How the rebate model could snowball to cover more drugs and further erode 340B benefitsWhy data transparency requirements may be a double-edged sword for covered entitiesThe connection between Medicaid disenrollment under the “One Big Beautiful Bill” and loss of 340B eligibilityThe growing threat to rural healthcare sustainability, with hundreds of hospitals already at risk of closureCall to Action: The panel urges healthcare leaders to educate themselves, cross-collaborate internally, and engage in advocacy now. With HRSA accepting comments on the pilot program until September 2, there's still a window to voice concerns—both formally and publicly.Listen to Learn:The mechanics of HRSA's rebate pilot and why it's controversialThe likely financial and operational impacts for hospitals of all sizesAdvocacy strategies that have the power to influence policy outcomes

One in four Americans is enrolled in Medicaid, yet the system designed to support them is constantly at risk—underfunded, politically vulnerable, and often overlooked.Dr. Alastair Bell, President and CEO of Boston Medical Center Health System, shares how his organization is reimagining what it means to care for underserved populations, while managing nearly 40% of Massachusetts' Medicaid enrollees. In this conversation, we explore the financial realities of running an “essential” hospital system, the opportunities and pitfalls of Medicaid ACOs, and why AI might deepen inequity if essential providers are left behind.We cover:

In this episode, Greg and Rob discuss tips for completing the annual 340B hospital recertification process, which is occurring now through early September. They also recap a recent notice in the Federal Register that signals HRSA's intent on modifying some elements of OPAIS and the 340B enrollment/registration/recertification process. The guys also can't help themselves and wrap up with another debate around impending 340B rebate considerations. Proposed OPAIS changes: https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2025/08/07/2025-14955/agency-information-collection-activities-proposed-collection-public-comment-request-information   Register for our Trulla webinar on August 26th: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/2844398547415085144?source=340B+Unscripted

Mid-August to mid-September marks the time every year when hospitals need to recertify for 340B. Failure to recertify in time could cost a hospital its ability to participate in 340B. 340B Health Senior Manager of Policy and Compliance Rebecca Swartz joins us to walk listeners through the process.Why recertification is “exceptionally important”Swartz says annual recertification is not just important, it's also one of the central tenets of 340B compliance. All hospital types except critical access hospitals need to make sure they're meeting the minimum disproportionate share percentage threshold. Hospitals also need to affirm that they are non-profit facilities and that all their registered parent and child sites continue to have reimbursable outpatient costs and charges on their Medicare cost reports.The cost of losing eligibility is highFailure to recertify 340B eligibility in a timely manner can lock hospitals out of their access to 340B pricing for a year or more. That could deprive a hospital of crucial resources to provide the care and support its patients need.Tips for a smooth recertificationSwartz says a key to making the process go smoothly is to start early and make sure hospital officials have the necessary worksheets and other documentation before the recertification process begins. Authorized officials and primary contacts should be on the lookout for returned tasks from HRSA and other messages to ensure their recertification process is complete. Taking screenshots of each step of the process also can help identify and fix discrepancies that might arise.ResourcesAnnual Hospital Recertification Began August 11340B Health WebinarsHRSA Announces 340B Rebate Pilot Program for up to 10 Drugs in 2026 340B Health Responds To HRSA 340B Rebate Pilot Program

Nearly 9 in 10 pharmacists are at a high risk of burnout, but how do affected pharmacists find a path forward? In this episode, we sit down with Devan Conley, Pharmacist at TrueCare Pharmacy in Concord, NC, to find out firsthand. Devin discusses his journey with burnout—which crept up during COVID and kept on for years, culminating in a struggle with prescription misuse. But, more importantly, Devan shares how he recovered, and how that recovery reshaped the way that he approaches life and pharmacy alike. Today, Devan is a pharmacist at a 340B pharmacy inside a federally qualified health center, launching behavioral health and harm reduction programs so that anyone dealing with similar struggles can find support. Devan's message is clear: Burnout doesn't have to be the end of your story but the beginning of a new one. 00:00 - Introduction to Devan Conley & TrueCare Pharmacy 02:00 - Burnout During COVID and Its Lasting Impact 08:40 - Path to Recovery and Regaining His Pharmacy License 18:50 - Opening a 340B Pharmacy in a Behavioral Health Setting 26:20 - Expanding Services with Long-Acting Injectables & Women's Health 33:10 - Harm Reduction Initiatives and Narcan Program 47:50 - Lessons in Leadership, Resilience, and Community Impact 52:20 - Closing Thoughts & How to Connect with Devan  Hosted By: Mark Bivins | Chief Growth Officer, RedSail Technologies Guest:  Devan Conley | Pharmacist, TrueCare Pharmacy   Devan's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/devan-conley-pharmd-msph-8732b87a/ 

Dr. Anthony DiGiorgio, a neurosurgeon at UCSF with a strong interest in healthcare policy, joins the show to unpack the complex and often misunderstood world of Medicaid. In a wide-ranging and nuanced discussion, he explores who qualifies for coverage, why most Medicaid spending goes to groups people don't typically expect, and whether the system should be expanded or fundamentally reformed. Dr. DiGiorgio outlines his support for a robust safety net, emphasizing targeted subsidies over a government-run program, and offers his take on the proposed “Big Beautiful Bill” currently in Congress. Along the way, the conversation touches on broader healthcare issues including the 340B drug discount program, the Affordable Care Act, and the role of the free market in ensuring access to care. Check out Chadi's website for all Healthcare Unfiltered episodes and other content. www.chadinabhan.com/ Watch all Healthcare Unfiltered episodes on YouTube. www.youtube.com/channel/UCjiJPTpIJdIiukcq0UaMFsA

In this episode, Greg and Rob share initial thoughts on 340B Rebate Model Guidance released by HRSA on July 31st. They also catch up on some of the hot topics that were generating conversations at the recent 340B Coalition Summer Conference Meeting.

Subscribe to UnitedHealthcare's Community & State newsletter.Health Affairs' Jeff Byers welcomes Senior Editor Leslie Erdelack back to the pod to discuss the proposed rule change to the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule for 2026, which includes payment conversion factors for doctors, alternative payment models, add-on codes for Advanced Primary Care Management services, a new mandatory value-based payment model, and more.Order the August 2025 issue of Health Affairs.Join us for a live taping of A Health Podyssey on Tuesday August 12 where Rob Lott will discuss recent findings about changes in clinician's participation across Medicare value-based payment models with Kenton Johnston.Upcoming Events include:8/20: 340B w/ Sayeh Nikpay (INSIDER EXCLUSIVE)8/26: Provider Prices in the Commercial Sector: Independent Dispute Resolution (FREE TO ALL)9/23: Prior Authorization: Current State and Potential Reform (INSIDER EXCLUSIVE)View all Upcoming Events.Become an Insider today to get access to exclusive events like the ones highlighted above.Related Articles:PRESS RELEASE: Calendar Year (CY) 2026 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule (PFS) Proposed Rule (CMS-1832-P)CMS proposes rule aligning Medicare physician payment with ‘Big Beautiful Bill,' MACRA (Healthcare Dive)CMS proposes 3.6% pay bump for docs, takes aim at chronic conditions in physician fee schedule (Fierce Healthcare)Physicians will see Medicare payments rise in 2026 (AMA)Medicare proposes ‘efficiency' pay cuts that would hit highly paid specialists the most (STAT News) Subscribe to UnitedHealthcare's Community & State newsletter.

This Day in Legal History: Gulf of Tonkin ResolutionOn August 7, 1964, the U.S. Congress passed the Gulf of Tonkin Resolution, dramatically reshaping the legal landscape of American military engagement. Prompted by reports—later disputed—of North Vietnamese attacks on the USS Maddox in the Gulf of Tonkin, the resolution granted President Lyndon B. Johnson broad authority to use military force in Southeast Asia without a formal declaration of war. It passed nearly unanimously, with only two dissenting votes in the Senate, reflecting the tense Cold War atmosphere and congressional trust in the executive branch.Legally, the resolution functioned as an open-ended authorization for the president to escalate military operations in Vietnam. Within months, it led to the deployment of hundreds of thousands of U.S. troops. Critics would later argue that it allowed the executive to bypass Congress's constitutional war-making powers, effectively green-lighting a years-long conflict based on contested facts.As the war dragged on and public opinion turned, the resolution became a focal point for debates over separation of powers, congressional oversight, and executive overreach. In 1971, amid growing backlash, Congress repealed the resolution, but its legacy endured. It served as a legal and historical precedent for future authorizations of force, including those passed after 9/11.A federal appeals court has upheld the SEC's long-standing “gag rule,” which prevents defendants who settle civil enforcement cases from publicly denying the agency's allegations. The 9th Circuit Court of Appeals ruled 3-0 that the rule is not unconstitutional on its face but left room for future challenges depending on how it's applied. The policy, in place since 1972, requires settling parties to at least refrain from admitting or denying wrongdoing. The court emphasized that defendants remain free to reject settlements if they wish to speak out.Twelve petitioners, including former Xerox CFO Barry Romeril and the New Civil Liberties Alliance (NCLA), challenged the SEC's January 2024 decision not to revise the rule. Romeril had previously brought a similar challenge to the Supreme Court with support from Elon Musk, but the Court declined to hear it. Writing for the panel, Judge Daniel Bress noted that removing the gag could reduce the SEC's ability to settle cases efficiently and that speech restrictions are voluntary components of settlement agreements.The NCLA criticized the decision, arguing it effectively sanctions government-imposed silence and announced plans to pursue further appeals. SEC Commissioner Hester Peirce also dissented from the agency's refusal to revisit the rule, arguing that it hinders public accountability by suppressing potential criticism. The SEC declined to comment on the ruling, which came in the case Powell et al v. SEC.US appeals court upholds SEC 'gag rule' over free speech objections | ReutersThe Stanford Daily, Stanford University's student newspaper, has filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration, accusing it of violating the free speech rights of foreign students. The suit, filed in federal court in California, alleges that threats of arrest, detention, or deportation have created a climate of fear among international students, discouraging them from writing about sensitive political issues—particularly the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Two unnamed students joined the paper in the lawsuit, which names Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem as defendants.According to the plaintiffs, the administration has labeled pro-Palestinian viewpoints as antisemitic or extremist and attempted to deport students expressing such views, framing them as threats to U.S. foreign policy. In some instances, students have been detained without charges, though judges have later ordered their release. The lawsuit contends that these actions have led to widespread self-censorship among international students, chilling constitutionally protected speech in areas such as protests, slogans, and commentary on U.S. and Israeli policy.The Stanford Daily is seeking a court ruling affirming that the First Amendment protects non-citizens from government retaliation based on their speech. The university clarified it is not involved in the suit, as the newspaper operates independently. Attorney Conor Fitzpatrick, representing the paper, called the government's actions antithetical to American values of free expression.Stanford student newspaper sues Trump administration for alleged free speech violations | ReutersA U.S. appeals court has reinstated a lawsuit accusing major drugmakers Sanofi, Eli Lilly, Novo Nordisk, and AstraZeneca of conspiring to limit drug discounts provided under the federal 340B program. The 2nd Circuit Court of Appeals reversed a lower court's dismissal, allowing two health clinics—Mosaic Health and Central Virginia Health Services—to proceed with their proposed class action. These clinics claim the companies colluded in 2020 to restrict discounts on diabetes medications, harming safety-net providers and the low-income patients they serve.The court found that because the four companies control much of the diabetes drug market, coordination to limit discounts could be feasible. Judge Myrna Pérez, writing for the panel, noted the allegations were plausible enough to move forward. The drugmakers have denied wrongdoing and argue their policies were developed independently to address alleged fraud in the 340B program. Sanofi and Novo Nordisk said they are reviewing the decision, while Lilly criticized the ruling and defended its practices as legal.The clinics say the drugmakers earned billions in extra profits through these policies, which allegedly undercut essential savings for providers. The case underscores the broader tension between pharmaceutical companies and healthcare providers over the administration of the 340B program, which requires drugmakers to offer discounts in exchange for access to federal healthcare funds.US appeals court reinstates drug-price conspiracy lawsuit against Sanofi, rival pharma companies | ReutersPepsiCo is facing a proposed class action lawsuit alleging it engaged in illegal price discrimination by giving more favorable pricing and discount terms to large retailers like Walmart while denying the same deals to smaller businesses. Filed in federal court in Manhattan by an Italian restaurant operator, the lawsuit claims this practice violates the Robinson-Patman Act, a rarely enforced 1936 antitrust law meant to prevent discriminatory pricing that harms competition.The suit accuses Pepsi of providing payments and allowances to Walmart that were not extended to other retailers, placing smaller businesses at a competitive disadvantage. Although Walmart is named in the allegations, it is not a defendant in the case. The plaintiff argues that Pepsi's pricing tactics unfairly burden other merchants who must pay more for the same products.This legal action echoes a previous Federal Trade Commission (FTC) lawsuit filed against Pepsi in January under the Biden administration. However, the second Trump administration dropped the case in May, with Trump-appointed FTC Chair Andrew Ferguson criticizing it as a politically motivated effort launched too late in the prior administration's term. The FTC has not commented on the new private lawsuit.The class action seeks unspecified damages on behalf of thousands of Pepsi purchasers nationwide. Neither Pepsi nor Walmart has publicly responded to the allegations.Pepsi accused of price discrimination in new merchant class action | Reuters This is a public episode. 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This episode features Paige Twenter, Assistant Editor at Becker's Hospital Review, as she discusses key healthcare policy developments including restrictions on gender-affirming care, federal pressure on pharmaceutical companies to lower U.S. drug prices, and major changes to the 340B drug pricing program.

Patients with behavioral health and substance use disorders often struggle with accessing and staying on the daily oral medications they need to keep their disorders controlled. That's why SSM Health uses some of its 340B savings to run long-acting injectable (LAI) clinics in the St. Louis area to help these patients achieve better health. We speak with SSM Health Vice President of Pharmacy Financial Operations Michelle Schmitt to learn how much of a role 340B plays in that patient care mission.LAI clinics offer comprehensive servicesSSM Health's three LAI clinics offer injections for patients with conditions such as bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and alcohol and opioid use disorders that might last as long as three to six months. Clinic visits also give the patients access to a full team of pharmacists, psychiatrists, nurses, therapists, and others to help them navigate treatment and stay healthy.340B funds are key to patient accessBecause behavioral health is often a subsidized service, 340B savings are crucial to the operations of the clinics. They also enable SSM Health to offer financial assistance to patients living up to 400% of the poverty level so they can afford the treatments they need to stay on the road to recovery.Cuts to 340B would be detrimental to patientsSchmitt says losing access to 340B pricing could mean a 60-70% price increase in the cost of LAI drugs, which would threaten the viability of the clinics and the financial assistance that many patients rely on to access their treatments. She says these clinics are a great example of how 340B is about much more than just price discounts; it provides resources for health systems to meet unique community health needs and serve patients where they are.ResourcesFederal Legislation Would Ban Harmful Drug Company Restrictions on 340B

Federal legislation has been introduced that is intended to help the beleaguered 340B Health organization via an effort to ban pharmaceutical companies from restricting access to the drug pricing discount program of the same name, through community and specialty contract pharmacies.Reporting this lead story as well as other updates from Congress and the Trump Administration during the next live edition of Monitor Mondays will be Maureen Testoni, CEO for 340B Health and a frequent guest on the long-running broadcast. Testoni represents more than 1,600 hospitals and health systems participating in the 340B drug pricing program.The weekly broadcast will also include these instantly recognizable features:• Monday Rounds: Ronald Hirsch, MD, vice president of R1 RCM, will be making his Monday Rounds.• The RAC Report: Healthcare attorney Knicole Emanuel, partner at the law firm of Nelson Mullins, will report the latest news about auditors.• Risky Business: Healthcare attorney David Glaser, shareholder in the law offices of Fredrikson & Byron, will join the broadcast with his trademark segment.• Legislative Update: Cate Brantley, senior healthcare government affairs analyst for Zelis, will report on the news happening at the intersection of healthcare and congressional action.

In this episode, Steven Newmark, Chief of Policy at GHLF, is joined by Clayton Ruley, Director of Strategic Initiatives, Mission Advancement & Impact at the Community Liver Alliance. Clayton shares his decades-long journey from frontline harm reduction work to shaping national health policy. Together, they discuss the need for compassion in healthcare, the importance of patient-centered policymaking, and the urgent challenges facing programs like 340B and Medicaid. Clayton also highlights how community-level work and federal health policies intersect — and why transparency and access matter now more than ever. Among the highlights in this episode: 01:04: Clayton describes his background and early career, influenced by a family of social workers and his work in harm reduction clinics 04:04: Clayton explains what policymakers often miss: the need for options, compassion, and respect in patient care, especially for people facing stigma or systemic barriers 07:05: Clayton outlines the mission of the Community Liver Alliance and his evolving role in expanding national and global impact 09:56: Clayton discusses the top policy priorities for the Community Liver Alliance, including improving transparency and accountability in the 340B program 14:30: Clayton gives real-life examples of how 340B funding can transform communities through housing, outreach, and treatment access 15:55: Clayton and Steven discuss the harms of non-medical switching and the need to protect patient stability in treatment 16:52: They highlight concerns about potential Medicaid and Medicare cuts and the downstream impact on underserved communities 17:22: Steven reminds listeners of the delayed consequences of the Build Back Better bill, with millions projected to lose Medicaid access by 2027 18:54: Clayton warns that rising premiums could force patients to forgo insurance entirely — a dangerous outcome for people with chronic diseases To learn more about the Community Liver Alliance or support their advocacy efforts, visit: https://communityliveralliance.org/ Contact Our Host Steven Newmark, Chief of Policy at GHLF: snewmark@ghlf.org A podcast episode produced by Ben Blanc, Director, Digital Production and Engagement at GHLF. We want to hear what you think. Send your comments in the form of an email, video, or audio clip of yourself to podcasts@ghlf.org Listen to all episodes of The Health Advocates on our website (https://ghlf.org/the-health-advocates) or on your favorite podcast channel.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of The Hydrogen Podcast, host Paul Rodden unpacks two major stories that reveal the tension—and opportunity—in hydrogen's global rollout:

This week's episode is a short one but a good one. Rob is out on vacation, so Greg is joined by SpendMend colleague Sabrina Allen to discuss the recent policy changes impacting FQHCs related to a Trump Administration executive order from earlier this year that address insulin and injectable epinephrine 340B pricing provisions. SpendMend is at Booth #413 this week at the 340B Coalition Summer Conference in National Harbor, MD. Come meet our team, eat some chocolate and discuss what's happening in the 340B world. Webinar Alert! Join us for a webinar on 340B Patient Definition on Thursday July 24 at 2PM ET. Register here: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/1724500873792685151?source=340B+Unscripted

About three years after being signed into law, one provision of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) that is of particular importance to 340B hospitals is about to take effect: Medicare price caps. Jan. 1, 2026, marks the date that the first 10 Medicare drugs will be subject to a maximum fair price (MFP). Meetali Desai, director of pharmacy business services at UMass Memorial Medical Center, joins us to explain how this will affect 340B hospitals and health centers such as hers.The Good and Bad News for Covered EntitiesThe good news, Desai says, is that there is potential for the 340B ceiling prices to go down for certain medications. This is because the MFP will become the new “best” price in the formula for calculating 340B prices. However, because the law will cap reimbursement rates to MFP when Medicare patients receive those drugs, 340B hospitals will see their 340B savings amounts go down for those dispenses.Updated Calculator Can Help Hospitals Gauge Potential Impact340B Health recently updated its calculator for hospitals to use to estimate the effects of MFP pricing based on the newest data. This new calculator allows users to project what the potential impact from the IRA could be on a hospital, including if drugmakers decide to lower their list prices significantly to avoid IRA inflation penalties. This drop in prices of Medicare drugs could result in 340B hospitals seeing higher ceiling prices and reduced savings.Reduced Savings Could Impact Patient CareDesai says Medicare price caps, combined with other financial pressures on hospitals, could mean some rough times ahead for hospitals that care for a large proportion of low-income patients. She encourages 340B teams to share their results from the IRA calculator with their senior leadership and with 340B Health as the hospital community prepares for the impact of these caps.ResourcesUse Our IRA Calculator and Share How Your 340B Savings Will ChangeRead Our Analysis: Second Federal Court Affirms HRSA's Authority Over 340B Rebates

In this special policy-focused episode of The ASHHRA Podcast, co-hosts Bo Brabo and Luke Carignan welcome back three powerhouse experts to help us navigate the urgent challenges facing hospital HR leaders today:

Howie and Harlan discuss the alarming healthcare cuts proposed in the budget bill currently moving through Congress, recent breakthroughs in HIV prevention and diabetes treatment, and the stark contrast between scientific progress and the deep structural flaws in the U.S. healthcare system. Links: The Budget Bill H.R.1—119th Congress (2025-2026) “A List of Nearly Everything in the Senate G.O.P. Bill, and How Much It Would Cost or Save” “Senate passes Trump's tax-cut bill that would slash Medicaid spending” “5 ways Trump's tax bill will limit health care access” “Murkowski Casts Decisive Vote for G.O.P. Policy Bill, Making an ‘Agonizing' Choice” “Mapping Hospital Employment By State” “Health Care Just Became the U.S.'s Largest Employer” The Budget Bill and Universities Yale Office of the Provost: “Actions in anticipation of federal legislation” “Yale pauses hiring, tightens budget in anticipation of endowment tax hike” “Yale Is Rushing to Sell Billions in Private Equity Investments” “Trump Has Targeted These Universities. Why?” “Republican Plan to Tax Elite Colleges Could Hit in Unexpected Places” “The NIH's drastic cut to indirect cost rates is a critical threat to U.S. research infrastructure” The 340B Drug Program Congressional Research Service: Overview of the 340B Drug Discount Program “J&J suffers a loss over 340B drug discount program” “ Beyond the Sloganeering—A Data-Driven Analysis of Recent 340B Growth” American Hospital Association: Fact Sheet: The 340B Drug Pricing Program PhRMA: The 340B Hospital Markup Program A Stem Cell Treatment for Diabetes “Stem Cell-Derived Islet Therapies Shown to Reduce the Need for Injectable Insulin” “Kennedy Says ‘Charlatans' Are No Reason to Block Unproven Stem Cell Treatments” Mayo Clinic: “Stem cells: What they are and what they do” Cleveland Clinic: Diabetes “Stem Cell–Derived, Fully Differentiated Islets for Type 1 Diabetes” Medicare Advantage and the VA “Insurers Collected Billions From Medicare for Veterans Who Cost Them Almost Nothing” “Lawmakers Seek to Close VA Loophole That Funnels Billions to Private Medicare Insurers” “Medicare Advantage Plans With High Numbers Of Veterans: Enrollment, Utilization, And Potential Wasteful Spending” A New HIV Drug HIV.gov: A Timeline of HIV and AIDS “HIV protection with just two shots a year: FDA approves Gilead drug” “Shuttering of USAID Will Lead to Millions of Deaths Around the World: Studies” “Evaluating the impact of two decades of USAID interventions and projecting the effects of defunding on mortality up to 2030: a retrospective impact evaluation and forecasting analysis” Kennedy v. Braidwood Health & Veritas Episode 84: Abbe Gluck: The Legal Determinants of Health Supreme Court opinion: KENNEDY, SECRETARY OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES, ET AL. v. BRAIDWOOD MANAGEMENT, INC., ET AL. “Kennedy v. Braidwood: The Supreme Court Upheld ACA Preventive Services but That's Not the End of the Story” “Supreme Court Upholds Preventive Services Requirement Under ACA” The Big Picture for U.S. Healthcare “The Perfect Storm has Hit U.S. Healthcare” “National Health Expenditure Projections, 2024–33: Despite Insurance Coverage Declines, Health To Grow As Share Of GDP” Exercise and Cancer “Structured Exercise after Adjuvant Chemotherapy for Colon Cancer” Learn more about the MBA for Executives program at Yale SOM. Email Howie and Harlan comments or questions.

In this episode, Greg and Rob welcome back Ted Slafsky to recap what the first six months of 2025 have brought to the 340B landscape. They'll talk about where we are at with 340B rebate model action, discuss how federal agency reorganization efforts could impact 340B regulatory oversight, recap state legislative wins for 340B providers and debate how Congress may address the call for 340B Program reform later in the year. Come catch us at Booth #413 at the 2025 340B Coalition Summer Conference! Listeners are welcome to use code “SpendMend25” to receive a 25% discount for new subscriptions to 340B Report. Visit https://340breport.com/

Health systems eligible for 340B savings must strike a balance by staying compliant with purchasing rules while also maximizing the amount of eligible savings they can obtain to invest in patient care. Angela Campitelli, the director of the pharmacy 340B program at MetroHealth System in Cleveland, explains how a hospital system such as hers implements a purchasing strategy that achieves that balance.Following rules for 340B purchasesDisproportionate share (DSH) hospitals, children's hospitals, and cancer hospitals are subject to a group purchasing organization (GPO) prohibition that bars them from buying covered outpatient drugs on GPO accounts. That requires maintaining a purchasing system that involves buying drugs at wholesale acquisition cost (WAC) for neutral inventory and then replenishing at 340B, WAC, or GPO pricing depending on how the drug is used.How the cycle can break downPurchasing drugs outside of the outlined processes could cause violations of the GPO prohibition or other 340B rules, which could lead to sanctions that might include losing eligibility for 340B. That is why health systems such as MetroHealth use staff education, regular auditing, and other safeguards to ensure they are purchasing and replenishing drugs on the correct accounts.Investments in the strategyCampitelli recommends 340B hospital teams bring their senior leadership on board to invest in auditing and other resources to ensure a strong purchasing strategy. Such investments will help avoid potential rule violations while ensuring that hospitals are not walking away from 340B savings to which they are entitled.Resources340B Health Appeals Rebate Ruling; Federal Court Agrees to Fast-Track Drugmaker Appeals

In this episode, Greg and Rob catch up on developments in the 340B space. They chat about new information provided by CMS for pharmacies related to the Medicare Drug Price Negotiation Program (some helpful links are below). Also, they debate about what might be coming with the widely anticipated 340B rebate model guidance. CMS Medicare Transaction Facilitator (MTF) User Guide: https://www.cms.gov/files/document/negotiation-program-mtf-user-guide.pdf CMS MTF Pharmacy FAQs: https://340breport.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/pharmacy-and-dispensing-entity-mtf-faq.pdf  

In this episode, Garrick J. Stoldt, CFO of Saint Peter's Healthcare System, shares how his team is tackling major challenges including Medicaid cuts, 340B pressures, and rising denials—while staying strategic about AI investments and future-proofing the system. With over 20 years at the helm, he reflects on the evolving role of the CFO and why proactive leadership is more essential than ever.