This Week in Pharmacy

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/

Valentine’s Day Special 2026 | TWIRx

TWIRx – This Week in Pharmacy
Episode Date: February 13, 2026Valentine’s Day Special 💘
This week on TWIRx, hosts Stephen Beckman, PharmD and Todd Eury break down the biggest headlines shaping pharmacy, from workforce trends to policy updates and innovation.
💕 Valentine’s Feature: TogetheRx – A Pharmacy Love Story
In celebration of Valentine’s Day, we welcome Drs. Mark and Gretchen Garofoli, PharmD, a pharmacy power couple who met at the University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy and have built a life and career TogetheRx.
Their journey includes raising a family, leading in pharmacy advocacy, podcasting, academic work with WVU School of Pharmacy, and operating a community pharmacy near Morgantown, WV.
🧪 Love Potion Segment: A Historical Rx
Dr. Mark Fulton, PharmD, host of the RxTales Podcast, joins the show to explore the surprising history of “love potions” and how folklore intersects with early pharmacy and medicine.
🚀 Innovation Spotlight: RxTransfer & Interoperability
We close with Pharmacy 50 Award Winner Alumni 2025, Dr. Lawrence King, PharmD, VP of Product Innovation at Surescripts, discussing RxTransfer, prescription interoperability, and how technology is modernizing pharmacy workflow and patient safety.
❤️ From love stories to pharmacy innovation, this Valentine’s edition celebrates the profession from the heart.
Subscribe, listen, and share as we head into Valentine’s Day 2026.
 

The GCR Wake-Up Call: How Small Buying Decisions Are Crushing (or Saving) Pharmacy Margin | TWIRx

 Independent pharmacies are dispensing more prescriptions than ever—but too many are seeing their profits shrink month after month. In this episode of This Week in Pharmacy, hosts Todd Eury and CEO of MatchRx Johny Kello sit down with Saeed Dinno Director of Pharmacy for a group of independent pharmacies in MI. For a practical, plain-English breakdown of one of the most overlooked metrics impacting pharmacy profitability: GCR, let's dive into this!
This episode isn’t about policy debates, compliance theory, or vendor hype. It’s a real-world conversation designed to help pharmacy owners, managers, and buyers understand how everyday sourcing and dispensing behaviors directly influence margin—often without anyone realizing it.
Saeed explains what GCR actually measures, what it does not measure, and why two pharmacies filling the exact same prescription can end up with completely different financial outcomes. From convenience buying and emergency orders that become routine, to default NDC selection and a disconnect between the buyer and the bench, the episode highlights the subtle habits that quietly erode profitability over time.
More importantly, the conversation delivers actionable steps pharmacies can implement immediately. Saeed outlines the core disciplines that improve performance—smarter buying strategy, better alignment between purchasing and dispensing, and simple operational guardrails that don’t slow workflow. The focus is not on “working harder,” but on working differently.
The episode closes with a clear, clip-worthy takeaway: one specific action pharmacy leaders can take this month to start moving the needle.
If you’ve ever wondered why your pharmacy is busy but the numbers don’t reflect it, this is an episode you’ll want to listen to twice—and put into practice the very next day.Second segment of TWIRx is with Jonathan Adly, CEO of TJM Labs, to discuss his powerful new book, The Innovative Pharmacy: How to Build an 8-Figure Pharmacy One Idea at a Time. At a time when independent pharmacies are being squeezed by rising labor costs, shrinking reimbursements, and increasing operational complexity, Adly delivers a refreshing message: success is still possible—but it requires innovation, clarity, and execution.
Jonathan shares why this book is not a “one-size-fits-all” business blueprint, but a collection of real-world frameworks inspired by hundreds of high-performing pharmacies across the U.S. and Canada. We explore the principles behind sustainable growth, including identifying your ideal customer, building scalable systems through automation, simplifying operations, and playing offense when the math works.
This conversation is a call to action for pharmacy leaders ready to build smarter, faster, and stronger—one bold idea at a time.This episode of TWIRx is sponsored by MatchRx, TJM Labs, Independent Pharmacy Cooperative (IPC) and Sykes & Company. 

Pharmacy Road-map for 2026 and New Opportunities for Growth | TWIRx

TWIRx – January 30 | Special Guest: Marc Essensa, CEO of IPC
On this episode of This Week in Pharmacy, we welcome Marc Essensa, President and CEO of the Independent Pharmacy Cooperative (IPC), to discuss timely strategies and resources helping independent pharmacies strengthen their businesses in today’s challenging environment.
Building Your Independent Pharmacy Business
Marc shares insights on navigating reimbursement pressure, improving margins, and leveraging IPC’s purchasing power, data, and strategic tools to support long-term sustainability.
The Payment Card Settlement: A Practical Guide
We break down IPC’s guidance on the Payment Card Interchange Fee Settlement, which may allow pharmacies that accepted Visa or Mastercard between 2004–2019 to recover funds. Marc explains eligibility, next steps, and how recovered dollars can support cash flow, staffing, technology, or inventory investments.
IPC Member Support Services
The conversation highlights IPC’s expanded member support offerings, including business consulting, strategic partnerships, wholesale access, and operational resources designed to help independents stay competitive.
Legislative & Advocacy Updates
Marc also provides updates on IPC’s advocacy efforts at both the state and federal levels, focused on protecting independent pharmacy interests and addressing ongoing policy and reimbursement challenges.
🔗 Resource Mentioned
The Payment Card Settlement: A Practical Guide – IPChttps://www.ipcrx.com/pharmacy-blog/news/the-payment-card-settlement-a-practical-guide/
Special guest:  Sakhi Gaurang Patel is a trailblazing PharmD candidate at the UC Irvine School of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences and a co-founder of the startup CuraVoice. Recognized for her work in healthcare equity, mentorship, and educational technology, she focuses on improving patient communication and reducing health disparities.
Featured Guest: Dr. Jenny Newlon, PharmD — Researcher and Pharmacist with Birth Control Pharmacist
In this episode of This Week in Pharmacy, we sit down with Dr. Jenny Newlon to explore how pharmacist consultants, health clinics, and independent pharmacies can build high-value contraception services that meet urgent community needs.We discuss practical strategies for delivering accessible birth control care—especially in areas that have lost Planned Parenthood centers—while creating new revenue models outside the constraints of traditional PBM reimbursement.
Dr. Newlon breaks down:
How pharmacies can implement contraception services—even with limited staff or clinical infrastructure
Ways to deliver value to patients and communities through education, access, and continuity of care
Forward-thinking business models that diversify revenue beyond dispensing
Tune in to learn how independent pharmacy teams can lead with care, expand women’s health access, and strengthen their role as trusted healthcare providers.Today's "This Week in Pharmacy" is sponsored by Independent Pharmacy Cooperative (IPC)

Beyond Downloads: Pharmacists, Listener Metrics & AI’s Next Wave | TWIRx

In this episode of This Week in Pharmacy, we explore how the Pharmacy Podcast Network (PPN) is deepening connections across healthcare by elevating pharmacists’ voices in the conversations that matter most. Inspired by the recent partnership between podcasting giant PodcastOne and the AI-driven analytics platform Listener, we highlight how PPN is using the same type of advanced engagement metrics—combining podcast listener data, social media signals, and network insights—to measure true influence, not just downloads. With Listener’s powerful data, PPN can now identify where pharmacists are making the greatest impact and uncover new opportunities to expand pharmacist positioning with other providers, industry leaders, and the public.
Plus, Todd sits down one-on-one with Kris Rhea of Pharmacy Market Place for an insightful conversation on AI in pharmacy—exploring how artificial intelligence is shaping workflow, clinical decision-making, business operations, and what pharmacists need to know to stay ahead in a rapidly changing healthcare landscape.