This Week in Pharmacy

TJM Labs and Pharmacists in Politics | TWIRx

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-summitMayo 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 LaunchToday’s guest post comes from Cindy Baksh, Chief Product Officer at ConnectiveRx.https://www.drugchannels.net/2026/05/where-gross-to-net-pressure-actually.htmlThe 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 CongressDr. 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. 

Healing the Sick Care System; Why People Matter | TWIRx

Guests:Gil BasheChair Global Health and Purpose at FINN PartnersMaya HajizadaChief Revenue Officer at Rx2GoC. Daniel MullinsProfessor at University of Maryland School of PharmacyMina G Yacoub PharmD BCPSFounder & CEO at Qik Productions

Clearway Health, John Nosta, Perigon 360, and Psychedelics in Practice | TWIRx

TWIRx News:The FDA plans to remove 12 peptide bulk drug substances from Category 2 of the Section 503A compounding list after their nominations were withdrawn. For compounders, the key issue is that this change does not automatically make compounding these substances permissible, leaving pharmacies exposed to ongoing regulatory uncertainty until the FDA makes further decisions.A nationwide Class II recall has been issued for Xanax XR 3 mg tablets in 60-count bottles, lot 8177156, after the product failed dissolution testing. Pharmacists should immediately locate and quarantine affected stock while reminding patients not to stop benzodiazepine therapy suddenly without direction from a healthcare provider.Community pharmacies are taking on a larger role in wound care by serving as an accessible first point of contact for patients with minor injuries. Pharmacists can help assess wounds, recommend appropriate over-the-counter treatment, watch for warning signs of complications, and refer patients for higher-level care when needed.Special sponsor interview with Allison Arant with Clearway Health. Featured interview with  the World's Leading Innovation Theorist John NostaGuests & sponsors of today's TWIRx, Perigon 360 Pharmacy with Chris Antypas PharmD and ed Mills And a bonus interview with Dr. Andy Krut PharmD, on Psychedelics (e.g., LSD, psilocybin, DMT)

Accountability, Innovation, and Access Across Care | TWIRx

This Week in Pharmacy 04-10-2026Sponsored by Outcomes and Independent Pharmacy Cooperative (IPC)On this episode of This Week in Pharmacy, we dig into another high-impact week across the profession with TWIRx news, practice transformation, oncology leadership, pediatric research innovation, and a look ahead to one of specialty pharmacy’s biggest gatherings of the year.This week’s episode is powered by our sponsors, Outcomes and Independent Pharmacy Cooperative (IPC), organizations continuing to support independent pharmacy innovation, patient engagement, and pharmacy performance.In the TWIRx News segment, we cover four important stories shaping the national conversation in pharmacy.First, we discuss the federal fraud case involving a Dearborn Heights pharmacy owner who pleaded guilty in a $1.9 million health care fraud scheme. According to the U.S. Department of Justice, Rabih Hamdan admitted to conspiring to submit false claims for prescription drugs that were either medically unnecessary or never actually dispensed, impacting Medicare, Medicaid, and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan. Federal prosecutors say the fraudulent claims totaled at least $1.9 million over a five-year period.Next, we look at oncology pharmacy leadership through the lens of Amy Seung, who is stepping into the HOPA presidency during a period of rapid acceleration in cancer care. In Pharmacy Times, Seung describes a practice environment where new approvals, indications, toxicity data, and clinical questions are arriving weekly or even daily. She positions HOPA as a key bridge between emerging science and real-world implementation, with this year’s conference emphasizing bispecific therapies, real-world evidence, supportive care, and toxicity management.We also spotlight a powerful research update from the UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, where professor David Drewry and student researchers are advancing work on diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG), an aggressive pediatric brain cancer with limited treatment options and an average life expectancy of about one year after diagnosis. The team is using an open-science model to accelerate discovery while keeping future therapies more affordable, and they are working with M4K Pharma to advance an ALK2 inhibitor toward a Phase 1 clinical trial.Finally, we feature a practice transformation story from Drug Topics: Gregg Jones, MBA, RPh, made the leap from corporate pharmacy leadership to launching Compass Core Pharmacy, described as Rhode Island’s first cost-plus pharmacy model. The cash-only model focuses on generics, uses AI-driven ordering, serves a growing veterinary segment with more than 1,400 pet prescriptions, and operates as a CLIA-waived pharmacy offering point-of-care testing. It is a compelling example of how pharmacists are reengineering care delivery outside the traditional reimbursement framework.We are also getting ready for Asembia 2026 in Las Vegas, where the Pharmacy Podcast Network will once again provide press coverage with support from Clearway Health. You can find us at booth 1805, where we’ll be capturing conversations that matter across specialty pharmacy, access, patient support, innovation, and care delivery.Our first featured interview is with Nick Baird, Director of Marketing with Outcomes, where we will explore the growing role of pharmacy engagement, patient activation, and value creation in community-based care.Our second interview features Dr. Jen Hammons, PharmD, DrPH, with Health Wagon, a vital community healthcare organization dedicated to serving medically underserved patients through an expanding network of care. In 2024 alone, Health Wagon served 7,291 unique patients through 21,615 patient encounters, supported by five mobile health units, three stationary clinic sites, a dental clinic, a vision clinic, and a pharmacy. Known for hosting one of the nation’s largest health outreach efforts of its kind, Health Wagon continues to expand its impact through the dedication of staff, volunteers, trustees, partners, donors, and supporters.Join us as we connect the week’s top headlines to the broader transformation underway in pharmacy practice, policy, specialty care, and community health.To learn more, follow the Pharmacy Podcast Network and stay connected as we head into Asembia 2026.

DSCSA Compliance and Compounding Leadership | TWIRx

TWIRx – April 3, 2026Co-Host: Jesse McCullough
On today’s episode of This Week in Pharmacy – TWIRx, we welcome special co-host Jesse McCullough for a timely discussion focused on pharmacy innovation, compliance, advocacy, and the future of the profession.
We begin with our featured sponsor segment presented by MatchRx, spotlighting two important voices in pharmacy technology and compliance. Johny Kello, CEO of MatchRx, joins the show alongside Riya Cao, CEO of LSPedia, for an important conversation centered on DSCSA readiness and the evolving world of pharmacy compliance. This discussion explores how pharmacies and supply chain stakeholders can better prepare for regulatory expectations, protect patients, and strengthen operational transparency through smarter compliance solutions.
In the second half of the episode, we’re joined by Scott Brunner, CEO of the Alliance for Pharmacy Compounding (APC), for a recap of the Owner Summit 2026 and a look ahead at what’s developing on Capitol Hill. Scott shares insight into the policy landscape impacting pharmacy compounding, the priorities emerging from this year’s summit, and what pharmacy owners and industry leaders should be watching as legislative and regulatory conversations continue to evolve.
This episode of TWIRx delivers a strong pulse on the profession—from compliance and interoperability to advocacy and the future of compounding pharmacy.
Featured Guests:
Johny Kello, CEO, MatchRx
Riya Cao, CEO, LSPedia
Scott Brunner, CEO, Alliance for Pharmacy Compounding (APC)
Episode Topics:
DSCSA and pharmacy compliance
Supply chain visibility and readiness
MatchRx and LSPedia collaboration in pharmacy compliance
Owner Summit 2026 recap
Capitol Hill updates impacting pharmacy compounding
The future of compounding and pharmacy advocacy
Sponsored by:MatchRx
DSCSA Compliance and Compounding Leadership | TWIRx 

TJM Labs, Chuck Melendi, and Bruce Kneeland | TWIRx

This episode is dedicated to the late Dr. Eric Geyer PharmD. Feautured guest Chuck Melendi Disruptive DialogueSpecial report from Bruce KneelandSponsored by TJM Labs and interview with Jonathan AdlyThis episode is sponsored by YARAL Pharma 

AI, Pharmacy System Evolution & Emerging Therapies | TWIRx

On this week’s This Week in Pharmacy (TWIRx), we explore how innovation, technology, and emerging therapies are reshaping pharmacy practice. From the growing influence of AI in medical information research, to the next generation of pharmacy management systems, and the expanding role of cell and gene therapies, this episode brings together industry leaders to discuss what’s next for pharmacy.
Special thanks to this week’s sponsors Cardinal Health, Independent Pharmacy Cooperative (IPC), and Nested Knowledge for supporting the podcast.
Segment 1 – AI & the Future of Medical Information with Nested Knowledge
Nested Knowledge returns to TWIRx as we welcome back Keith Kallmes, Co-Founder of Nested Knowledge, for an update on how artificial intelligence is transforming the way healthcare professionals access and interpret medical information.
Keith explains how AI-powered tools are improving evidence synthesis, systematic literature reviews, and clinical decision support, helping researchers and clinicians navigate the growing volume of medical literature while enabling faster, more reliable insights.
Segment 2 – The Evolution of Pharmacy Management Systems with Outcomes
Next, we’re joined by Lou Ann Myers from Outcomes to discuss how pharmacy management systems are evolving beyond traditional dispensing.
Modern pharmacies require integrated technology connecting billing, treatment planning, clinical tracking, inventory management, and revenue-generating services. Lou Ann shares why these systems must support both clinical services and business sustainability as pharmacies expand into value-based care and new service models.
Segment 3 – Emerging Therapies with Cardinal Health
In our final segment, we welcome Dr. Fran Gregory, PharmD, Vice President of Emerging Therapies (Cell & Gene, Biosimilars) at Cardinal Health, to discuss one of the most transformative areas in healthcare.
Dr. Gregory explores the growing impact of cell and gene therapies and biosimilars, and what these innovations mean for pharmacists, health systems, and specialty pharmacy providers as the industry prepares for new challenges in distribution, access, and reimbursement.
About TWIRx (This Week in Pharmacy)TWIRx is the flagship news and commentary podcast from the Pharmacy Podcast Network, delivering weekly insights on the business, technology, and policy shaping the pharmacy profession.

The Power of Patient 1st Care in Pharmacy and PBM Reform Progress | TWIRx

Welcome to another episode of TWIRx – This Week in Pharmacy, where we break down the most important developments impacting the pharmacy profession. This week’s show features leaders from across community pharmacy, health systems, healthcare advocacy, and international patient engagement. From PBM reform to patient-centered care and health system growth in Western Pennsylvania, this episode brings together voices shaping the future of pharmacy.
Sponsored by
Sykes & Company, P.A.Accounting, tax strategy, and advisory services dedicated exclusively to independent pharmacy operators.
Segment 1
Austin Murray
Communications and Marketing Director – Sykes & Company, P.A.
We kick off TWIRx with Austin Murray from Sykes & Company, discussing the NCPA Consumer Marketing Campaign designed to educate the public about the value of community pharmacies.
Austin shares insights on:
• The importance of telling the community pharmacy story directly to consumers• Why independent pharmacies remain essential healthcare access points• The evolving state of independent pharmacy nationwide• Continued momentum around PBM Reform• Strategic accounting and tax advantages pharmacy operators should understand in today’s challenging reimbursement environment
Austin also explains how pharmacy-focused accounting firms like Sykes & Company help owners navigate reimbursement pressure, tax planning, and business strategy.
Segment 2
Mark Duman
Pharmacy 50 Award Winner – United Kingdom
International healthcare thought leader Mark Duman joins TWIRx to discuss one of the most important principles in healthcare transformation:
The patient must come first.
Mark shares his perspective on:
• Why healthcare systems must remain patient-centered• How pharmacy can lead the way in improving patient outcomes• Lessons learned from patient engagement initiatives in the UK healthcare system• Why meaningful healthcare innovation always begins by focusing on the patient experience
Mark emphasizes that when healthcare professionals keep the patient as the constant focus, better pharmacy care and stronger health systems follow.
Segment 3
Dr. Laura Mark, PharmD
Vice President of Pharmacy – Allegheny Health Network
Next, we welcome Dr. Laura Mark, Vice President of Pharmacy at Allegheny Health Network (AHN), who shares exciting news about new pharmacy operations facilities recently built in Butler County, Pennsylvania.
Todd and Laura also reflect on their shared roots growing up in Butler County, while discussing how AHN is investing in the future of pharmacy.
Topics include:
• The new pharmacy operations infrastructure in Western Pennsylvania• How AHN is expanding pharmacy services across the Greater Pittsburgh region• The role of health system pharmacy in improving access to care• Strategic positioning for future healthcare growth and integration
AHN continues to strengthen its pharmacy operations as a key component of coordinated patient care throughout the region.
Segment 4
Eric Pusey
Independent Pharmacy Owner – Pennsylvania
Closing out this week’s episode, pharmacy owner Eric Pusey joins TWIRx to discuss the latest updates on PBM Reform in Pennsylvania.
In 2024, Pennsylvania enacted Act 77, a landmark law aimed at increasing oversight and fairness in pharmacy benefit management.
Eric explains how the law:
• Grants new regulatory authority to the Pennsylvania Insurance Department• Restricts PBM patient steering to pharmacies owned or affiliated with benefit managers• Improves transparency requirements for PBM operations• Establishes payment protections intended to level the playing field for community pharmacies
Patient steering practices have long limited competition and reduced patient choice. Eric shares why these reforms represent an important step toward protecting both patients and independent pharmacy providers across the Commonwealth.
Listen & Subscribe
Stay informed on the business, policy, and innovation shaping the pharmacy profession.
Follow TWIRx – This Week in Pharmacy on the Pharmacy Podcast Network, featuring conversations with the leaders and advocates advancing pharmacy practice.

Pharmacy Profit Summit 2026 + Rare Disease Day 2026 | TWIRx

On this episode of This Week in Pharmacy, we spotlight two major conversations shaping the future of pharmacy practice in 2026.
First, we welcome Dr. Lisa Faast, PharmD, founder of DiversifyRx, to discuss the Pharmacy Profit Summit 2026 and how independent pharmacies can strengthen margins, diversify revenue streams, and build sustainable growth models in today’s reimbursement environment.
Then, we turn to Rare Disease Day 2026 with Richard Faris PharmD, Chief Commercial & Clinical Officer at and PANTHERx Rare, to discuss specialty pharmacy leadership, pharmacist impact, and new patient feedback data revealing communication gaps in rare disease care.
Segment 1: Pharmacy Profit Summit 2026Guest: Dr. Lisa Faast, PharmD | Founder, DiversifyRx
Dr. Faast joins us to break down the vision behind Pharmacy Profit Summit 2026 — an event designed to equip pharmacy owners with practical strategies to increase profitability while maintaining clinical excellence.
Key Topics Covered:
• Why independent pharmacies must move beyond traditional dispensing revenue • Diversification strategies including niche services and high-value offerings • Real-world financial benchmarks pharmacy owners should track • How mindset, leadership, and data discipline drive sustainable profitability • The importance of collaboration and shared intelligence among pharmacy entrepreneurs
The Pharmacy Profit Summit is not just about revenue — it’s about equipping pharmacy owners to compete intelligently in a rapidly consolidating healthcare market.
Segment 2: Rare Disease Day 2026Guest: Richard Faris, PharmD | PANTHERx Rare
In recognition of Rare Disease Day 2026, we are honored to welcome Richard Ferris, PharmD, to discuss the critical role pharmacists play in specialty pharmacy and rare disease care.
PantherRx recently released survey findings examining patient and caregiver experiences within rare disease treatment journeys.
Key Study Highlights:
• 90% of patients and caregivers report delays due to communication gaps • 68% report waiting for updates from providers, pharmacies, or insurers • 90% say they manage the care process themselves • 72% desire a dedicated care coordinator • 73% agree it is unclear who is responsible for coordinating rare disease care
Despite advances in specialty therapeutics, patients are still asking for the fundamentals: clear communication, coordinated care, and personalized support.
Richard discusses:
• The growing importance of specialty pharmacists as care coordinators • Why rare disease patients often feel burdened by system fragmentation • How specialty pharmacy can close communication gaps • The need for pharmacist-led continuity in complex therapy management
Rare Disease Day reminds us that specialty pharmacy is not only about high-cost medications — it is about human connection, long-term coordination, and advocacy for patients navigating some of the most complex clinical journeys in healthcare.  From business sustainability to patient-centered specialty care, this episode reinforces two realities:
Pharmacy must remain financially strong to survive.Pharmacists must remain clinically present to lead.
As the profession evolves, profitability and patient advocacy are not opposing forces — they are interdependent pillars of pharmacy’s future.
Listen now and join the conversation shaping Pharmacy in 2026.

LTC Rx at Home: Logistics & Advocacy | TWIRx

LTC Rx at Home: Logistics & Advocacy | TWIRxRx4Route is a specialized pharmacy delivery management platform and software designed to optimize prescription delivery for pharmacies. It integrates with existing systems to provide real-time tracking, AI-powered route optimization, HIPAA-compliant proof of delivery, and driver management tools. It aims to reduce delivery costs and improve efficiency.Doni Sattarov with Rx4RouteRx4Route.com
 
Kristen Hutchison - Health Policy and Patient AdvocacyAs a seasoned medical technical writer and chronic illness patient advocate, I meticulously translate intricate medical information into succinct content tailored for diverse audiences, including engineers, clinicians, educators, and advocacy groups.https://www.khutchison.com/