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.