This Week in Pharmacy – Details, episodes & analysis

In this episode of This Week in Pharmacy for May 16th, 2025, Pharmacy Podcast Network founder Todd Eury is joined by his co-host Dr. Ryan Paul Liabenow, PhD, CEO of Mango Health as they review TWIRx News. Our first segment, we explore the transformative potential of the Long-Term Care at Home (LTC@Home) pharmacy model. As healthcare shifts towards home-based care, pharmacies have a unique opportunity to expand their services beyond traditional settings.  Key Discussion Points:

• Strategic Partnership Spotlight: We delve into the recent collaboration between RxSafe/Eyecon, PharmaComplete, and the LTC@Home Pharmacy Network. This alliance aims to revolutionize pharmacy operations through automation and expert consulting, enhancing patient care in the LTC@Home space.
• Expert Insights: Paul Shelton, founder of PharmaComplete and co-founder of the LTC@Home Pharmacy Network, shares his extensive experience in pharmacy operations and discusses strategies for pharmacies to successfully implement LTC@Home services.
• Automation in Focus: We examine how RxSafe's Eyecon technology, including RapidPakRx and RapidCardRx, is streamlining compliance packaging and improving workflow efficiency for pharmacies transitioning to the LTC@Home model. 
• Business Transformation: Learn how integrating LTC@Home services can lead to increased prescription volumes, enhanced patient outcomes, and new revenue streams for pharmacies.

Why This Matters: The LTC@Home model represents a significant shift in pharmacy services, aligning with the broader trend of patient-centered, home-based care. By adopting this model, pharmacies can play a pivotal role in reducing hospitalizations and improving the quality of life for patients requiring long-term care.  

On the second feature, we spotlight a remarkable family legacy that’s shaped community pharmacy in Salt Lake City for over 70 years. We’re talking about Jolley’s Compounding Pharmacy—a third-generation, family-owned pharmacy that continues to blend tradition with innovation.

 

From the pioneering vision of Joel Jolley in 1954 to the modern leadership of Dean Jolley, R.Ph., and now Dr. Benjamin Jolley, the Jolley family has remained committed to personalized care, compounding excellence, and pharmacist-driven leadership. Ben is joined by his sister, Megan Jolley Milne, PharmD, BCACP, entrepreneur and CEO of Nutranize. 

 

This Episode is sponsored by Independent Pharmacy Cooperative (IPC) and Eyecon RxSafe. 

  Connect with Us: For more insights and updates, follow This Week in Pharmacy on LinkedIn and Twitter.

In this powerful episode of This Week in Pharmacy, Todd Eury explores the growing national backlash against pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs)—starting with bold action in Arkansas. Following Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders' recent signing of legislation to limit PBM influence, Arkansas has become a flashpoint in the nationwide struggle to protect independent pharmacies and ensure fair drug pricing. Special guest from Arkansas, Doctor's Orders Pharmacy Owner, Lelan Stice, as we dig into what this legislation means, how states like Alabama are following suit, and why pharmacists across the U.S. are calling for transparency, accountability, and reform.

• PBMs are under increased legal and political scrutiny across multiple states
• Independent pharmacies are gaining new allies in their fight for survival
• Legislative momentum is growing—this could be a tipping point
• Patients, too, are paying the price for PBM overreach
• Pharmacists must stay informed and involved in local/state policy

Full AP article: APNews.com – Arkansas Takes on PBMs TWIRx Feature: Lumicera Health Services Guest: Dr. Ben Heiser, PharmD – General Manager, Specialty Pharmacy, Lumicera Health Services In this special TWIRx segment, This Week in Pharmacy dives into the world of specialty pharmacy with Dr. Ben Heiser of Lumicera Health Services, a nationally recognized leader in delivering specialty drug solutions with a patient-first approach. Dr. Heiser discusses how Lumicera leverages data-driven care models, collaborative payer partnerships, and a commitment to access and affordability to redefine what it means to support patients with complex, chronic conditions. From pharmacy innovation to value-based outcomes, this interview offers a behind-the-scenes look at one of the most forward-thinking organizations in specialty care. Lumicera Health is the Pharmacy Podcast Network sponsor for the AXS25 Press Coverage, learn more about  Lumicera here:  https://www.lumicera.com/  Subscribe to all 40+ Pharmacy Podcast Network podcasts from one link:  https://linktr.ee/pharmacypodcast 

The Future of Pharmacogenomics, State Rep Cook, & Super Culture | TWIRx 

• Howard McLeod, PharmD
• Katrina Azer

About the ElevateRx Event - Pharmacogenomics Virtual Summit April 12, 2025 12pm -6pm ET About the ElevateRx Event: This event is for you if you want to: bring innovation and fresh ideas to your practice elevate your career with new skills and expertise learn how precision prescribing reduces adverse events and improves patient outcomes learn step-by-step how top pharmacogenomics pharmacists are successfully implementing PGx across various settings This event is open to pharmacists worldwide, providing practical PGx implementation strategies applicable across diverse healthcare settings. Bud Cook 50th Legislative District Pennsylvania House of Representatives GO BIG & COME HOME!! Representative Cook recently spoke at the Washington County commissioners monthly meeting about his newest initiative – “Come Home…GO BIG!” The initiative highlights Southwestern Pennsylvania, which consists of Washington, Fayette, Greene, Westmoreland and Allegheny counties, as the best place in the Commonwealth to live and work. “I stood before the commissioners and asked for a committed partnership from them in pursuing this idea,” said Cook. “I want to publicly thank them for the opportunity to present Come Home…GO BIG! I look forward to potentially working with them in the months to come.” - said Rep Cook In May 2021, Cook started to ask the public “Why Not Here?” As many people had the opportunity to work from anywhere during the pandemic, he questioned why people wouldn’t want to live and work in one of the tightest-knit communities in the Commonwealth. Thus, began his focus to make Southwestern Pennsylvania a home for many and a tourist destination for others. Chris Cornelison, RPh Author & CEO SolutionsRx Creator of Super Culture™ Framework

In Super Culture™, Chris Cornelison outlines five steps to transform workplaces into thriving environments where employees feel energized and appreciated. Drawing from his experience, he emphasizes the importance of building a Super Culture™, retaining talent, fostering collaboration, and improving results.

Fighting for the Patient’s Care and Rights 🗓 Episode Release Date: 02-07-2025 🎧 Hosted by: Todd Eury 🎙️ Special Guests: Claudia Holley and Julie Baak - TikTok stars = C_Money636 💊 Episode Overview: In this powerful episode of This Week in Pharmacy (TWIRx), we’re diving deep into the critical role pharmacists and healthcare providers play in fighting for the patient—advocating for their care, navigating medical roadblocks, and ensuring they receive the treatment they deserve. Pharmacists are more than medication experts—they are frontline patient advocates who challenge insurance denials, seek second opinions, and collaborate with healthcare teams to protect patient rights. 🔥 Key Topics Covered:   ✅ Challenging Insurance Denials – How pharmacists and healthcare providers can push back against unfair insurance rejections and fight for necessary treatments. ✅ Empowering Patients & Families – The importance of clear communication with patients and their loved ones to ensure informed decision-making. ✅ Interdisciplinary Collaboration – How working with physicians, social workers, and specialists leads to more comprehensive and effective care.   💡 Why This Matters: The healthcare system can be complex and overwhelming for patients. Pharmacists, alongside other healthcare professionals, have the unique ability to bridge gaps in care, ensuring patients don’t fall through the cracks. This episode is a call to action for providers to be proactive advocates, challenge the status quo, and put patients first—always. Next guest, Curtis Sparrer Principal of Bospar - Recognized by Business Insider, Inc., Forbes, Fortune, PRWeek & PRovoke! He's got a new book out, a children's book about public relations from their prospective, as children. Curtis consulted with his 10 year old niece on the book. GAME FACE! Buy the book for your middle schoolers now. This opens up a whole other way for our children to learn to communicate better. The mobile phone generations, they communicate differently, this book describes the importance of communicating an idea. This can help build confidence in our kids. Sign up to get this book: https://bospar.com/game-face/  📢 Share your thoughts! How have you fought for your patients? Tag us on social media using #TWIRx and #FightingForPatients. Fighting for the Patient’s Care and Rights | TWIRx  👉 Subscribe & Leave a Review!

The Next Gen Pharmacy Conference, ATRIUMX February 27 – March 1, 2025 The conference that puts you in control— you create the content.  Thank you Independent Pharmacy Cooperative (IPC) for sponsoring this episode of TWIRx!  Check out the iCare+ digital health platform: https://myicareplus.com/  2-Part Special:  FIRST -- Special guests: Atrium24 founder, Dr. Nicolette Mathey PharmD, ATRIUMX organizers Kelley Babcock, and Jen Diehl, and Pharmacy Busienss Consultant and owner Donnie Jordan Vice President Pharmacy Strategy at Health Growth Pharmacy Solutions.  SIGN UP HERE: https://atrium24.io/atriumx-conference-attendees/  NEXT -- on the second half of TWIRx, we talk with Dr. Julie Schulz, MD, MPH and Dr. Michael Dovidio, PharmD from Avalon Health talk about the challenges of 'quick fix' treatments and weight management plans with the inclusion of GLP-1s. From the article titled: "How to Maximize the Value of GLP-1 Drugs While Improving Health Equity" --Julie and Mike talk about the real world needs of people who want to lose weight, doing it the right way for long term benefit.  Due to the continued high cost, only patients with greater financial resources or those with generous employer-sponsored drug benefits will be able to afford the medications for obesity. This can exacerbate health inequities, likely driving significantly higher costs for public and commercial health plans, intensified by the new financial strain from weight loss medications. Rather than denying coverage for GLP-1s for obesity, health plans could modify eligibility policies to require data from a standardized set of laboratory tests and other biometrics to identify patients in most need of GLP-1s and verify medical necessity. This approach would reduce inappropriate prescribing while ensuring that patients who are most likely to benefit from the drugs have access to them.

Release Date: January 31, 2025 Episode Overview: In this episode of This Week in Pharmacy (TWIRx), we dive into the $62 billion market of digital health, exploring its potential and the critical role pharmacies can play in this rapidly expanding space. Special guests Ashton S. Maaraba, J.D., President of Independent Pharmacy Cooperative (IPC) Digital Health, and Debbie Marcello RN, CEO of Happier At Home Franchise, join us to discuss the growing intersection of digital health, home care, and pharmacy. TWIRx News for January 31, 2025:

• YARAL Pharma and Pharmacy Podcast Network Extend Collaboration Into 2025 YARAL Pharma and the Pharmacy Podcast Network announce their continued collaboration into 2025. This partnership brings fresh insights and resources to the pharmacy industry and underscores the evolving role of pharmacies in healthcare.
• Pharmacy Podcast Network is the Official Press Partner for the ATRIUMX Conference (Feb 27 - Mar 1, 2025, Orlando, FL) The Pharmacy Podcast Network will be the official press partner for the ATRIUMX conference, which is set to take place in Orlando, Florida, from February 27th to March 1st. This major event will focus on the latest in pharmacy innovation, digital health, and patient care strategies.
• Pharmacy Times Q&A: Pharmacists Play Pivotal Role in Evolving Diabetes Care with New Treatments In an insightful Q&A from Pharmacy Times, experts discuss the evolving role of pharmacists in managing diabetes care as new treatments emerge. Pharmacists are crucial in supporting patients through the transition to these advanced therapies.
• Many Independent Pharmacists Will Not Stock Drugs in the Price Negotiation Program In a concerning trend, many independent pharmacies are opting out of participating in the price negotiation programs for certain drugs, impacting the way patients access medications and the role of these pharmacies in the larger healthcare ecosystem.
• Pharmacy Focus: GLP-1 Medications and Pharmacists' Role in Counseling Patients This segment discusses the growing importance of GLP-1 medications in treating obesity and diabetes, and how pharmacists can play an essential role in counseling patients, ensuring adherence, and managing side effects.

Main Segment: The Digital Health Home; a $62 Billion Market with Special Guests: In this episode, we’re joined by two experts at the forefront of the digital health revolution:

• Ashton S. Maaraba, J.D., President of the Independent Pharmacy Cooperative (IPC), Digital Health, shares insights into the digital health landscape and the vast potential of a $62 billion market. Ashton explains how independent pharmacies are adapting to digital health tools and integrating these solutions into patient care.
• Debbie Marcello RN, CEO of Happier At Home Franchise, provides an in-depth look at the home care franchise model and how technology is transforming home-based healthcare. Debbie discusses the role of pharmacies in supporting patients in their own homes, from medication management to virtual consultations.

Together, Ashton and Debbie explore the opportunities and challenges in the digital health home market, as well as the critical role of pharmacies in facilitating better outcomes through technology, patient engagement, and community-based care. Listen and Subscribe: For more insights into the future of pharmacy, healthcare innovation, and the digital health home, be sure to tune in to This Week in Pharmacy! Connect with Us:

• Website: www.thisweekinpharmacy.com
• Instagram: @ThisWeekInPharmacy
• LinkedIn: Pharmacy Podcast Network 

Don’t miss out on the latest in pharmacy news and trends!

In this special episode of This Week in Pharmacy, we’re joined by Dr. Nicolette Mathey, PharmD, the visionary CEO of Atrium24 and the driving force behind ATRIUMX, the first-ever pharmacy conference of its kind. Set to take place from February 27 – March 1, 2025, at the stunning Margaritaville Resort in Orlando, Florida, ATRIUMX is designed to put pharmacy owners in control—literally. Unlike traditional conferences, ATRIUMX empowers attendees to create their own content and tailor their learning experience. Dr. Mathey shares her insights into the modern challenges faced by pharmacy owners and the innovative solutions being presented at the conference. From cash-based programs and DIR fee restitution to technology strategies and tips for increasing profits, this episode is packed with valuable information you won’t want to miss. Whether you’re an independent pharmacy owner, aspiring entrepreneur, or pharmacy team member, ATRIUMX is your chance to gain actionable strategies to thrive in today’s fast-evolving pharmacy landscape. What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• The inspiration behind ATRIUMX and its mission to revolutionize pharmacy conferences.
• How cash-based programs can diversify revenue streams for pharmacy owners.
• Insights into DIR fee restitution and how to reclaim funds for your business.
• The latest technology strategies to enhance efficiency and patient care.
• Proven methods to increase profitability while improving patient outcomes.
• Why collaboration and content customization are critical for pharmacy success in the digital age.

Key Details About ATRIUMX: 📍 Location: Margaritaville Resort, Orlando, FL 📅 Dates: February 27 – March 1, 2025 🌟 Conference Highlights:

• Create your own content: Personalized sessions tailored to your needs.
• Expert-led panels and workshops with industry leaders.
• Networking opportunities with like-minded pharmacy professionals.

🎟️ Registration: Learn more and secure your spot at ATRIUMX here: [LINK] https://atrium24.io/atriumx-conference-attendees/ About Dr. Nicolette Mathey: Dr. Mathey, PharmD, is a trailblazer in independent pharmacy, dedicated to empowering pharmacy owners with tools, resources, and strategies to build sustainable businesses in today’s challenging healthcare environment. As the CEO of Atrium24, she has helped countless pharmacies achieve success through innovative solutions and unwavering advocacy for independent pharmacy care. Subscribe and Connect: Don’t miss an episode of This Week in Pharmacy! Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform:

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📱 Follow Us on Social Media: Stay updated on the latest in pharmacy care and conference news:

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🎧 Listen Now: [Insert Podcast Episode Link] Special Thanks: Thank you to our sponsor, Atrium24, for supporting the independent pharmacy community and creating innovative events like ATRIUMX to drive the profession forward. #PharmacyPodcast #TWIRx  #ATRIUMX #IndependentPharmacy #PharmacyOwners #Innovation

The Trump Card, Public Relations, and RxTeach | TWIRx

• On this episode of TWIRx, what's the Trump Card going to do to Pharmacy Care? 
• How can a new strategy in Public Relations improve pharmacy? 
• FEATURED INTERVIEW: 
  • Teaching innovators, RxTeach and the opportunity for Pharmacists 

TWIRx News:  What Trump's first day orders mean for healthcare: Ditched drug models, pauses on rules and hiring By Fierce Healthcare Staff, Dave Muoio, Noah Tong, Emma Beavins, Anastassia Gliadkovskaya  Jan 21, 2025 1:00pm LINK: https://www.fiercehealthcare.com/regulatory/what-trumps-first-day-orders-mean-healthcare-ditched-drug-models-pauses-rules-and-hiring  More Bad News for Pharmacy Benefit Managers – AMAC Action Weekly Advocacy Update Posted on Friday, January 24, 2025 | by AMAC Action LINK: https://amac.us/newsline/advocacy/more-bad-news-for-pharmacy-benefit-managers-amac-action-weekly-advocacy-update/  Managing Sustainable Drug Spend: 5 Trends Reshaping Pharmacy Benefits in 2025  https://www.pharmacytimes.com/view/managing-sustainable-drug-spend-5-trends-reshaping-pharmacy-benefits-in-2025  PQA Releases Report to Define Quality Medication Use for Rare Diseases  https://www.pharmacytimes.com/view/pqa-releases-report-to-define-quality-medication-use-for-rare-diseases Best 80 Pharma Podcasts Awards 2025 Pharmacy Podcast Network is ranked # 1 Number One  from Million Podcasts:  https://www.millionpodcasts.com/pharma-podcasts/  This episode is sponsored by Independent Pharmacy Cooperative (IPC) and PrimeRx. Losing the Reimbursement Battle? Win the War with a Smarter Pharmacy Purchasing Strategy    https://www.primerx.io/blog/primerx-market/losing-the-reimbursement-battle-win-the-war-with-a-smarter-pharmacy-purchasing-strategy/

On This Week in Pharmacy, we talk about the latest news:  From Reuters:  US FTC finds major pharmacy benefit managers inflated drug prices for $7.3 billion gain From Pharmacy Times:  The Evolving Business Model of Pharmacy: Moving Beyond Dispensing  From USA Today:  Walgreens turnaround continues with 450 stores to be closed this year Dr. Adam Robinson, PharmD poses a great question:  Who am I as a leader? Am I leading correctly? Why am I so stressed? These are questions as pharmacist and owners we ask ourselves frequently. Terri and Kelley can help unpack these deep question and give us insight into how a leaders brain works and some simple tools to move the needle forward.   Thanks to PrimeRx for your support of todays TWIRx  Register for PrimeRx MARKET membership is Free Shop smarter and make purchases totaling just 500 in generics by Jan 31,2025, Enjoy and amazon gift card.   https://landing.primerx.io/holidaypromo

Episode Summary: Podcasting is BIGGER THAN EVER in the pharmacy profession! In this exciting episode, we explore the incredible opportunities for pharmacists and pharmacy professionals to leverage podcasting as a platform to build influence, strengthen their personal and professional brand, and drive business growth. Joining us are two extraordinary content creators and podcasters—a dynamic husband-and-wife healthcare communications power-couple from London—sharing their expertise and tips to help you succeed.

 

Introducing ANISHA PATEL and SUNJAY VYAS

https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/behind-the-mic-%F0%9F%8E%A4-7199801296428650496/ 

 

Key Discussion Points:

• Why podcasting is a powerful tool for the pharmacy profession.

• Real-world examples of how pharmacy professionals have used podcasting to grow their influence.

• Practical tips for starting and sustaining a successful podcast.

• Insights into creating engaging content that resonates with your audience.

• Building your brand through storytelling and consistent podcast messaging.

Special Offer: Get started on your podcasting journey with 3 MONTHS FREE podcast hosting through our partners at Podbean! Message Todd Eury directly to claim this exclusive promo and start building your podcast today.

Upcoming Events: Join us for Part Two of our "This Week in Pharmacy" special series, airing LIVE on Friday, January 17th, at 3 PM ET / 12 PM PT. Don’t miss it!

Resources and Links:

• Learn more about Podbean’s hosting services: Podbean.com/PHARMA90  

• Connect with Todd Eury on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/toddeury/ 

• Follow "This Week in Pharmacy" for updates and insights: ThisWeekInPharmacy.com 

Call to Action: Subscribe, share, and join the conversation! Podcasting can revolutionize your career—start building your influence today.