Pharmacy Podcast Network

Welcome to this special three-part press coverage series from the Pharmacy Podcast Network, recorded on location at the Pennsylvania Pharmacists Association Annual Conference, held February 20th through the 22nd at the Hilton Harrisburg. This series is proudly sponsored by Value Drug Company and the Pennsylvania Pharmacists Care Network — PPCN — as they celebrate their 10th anniversary of advancing pharmacist-led patient care across the Commonwealth.   In this episode we hear from: Nicole Mannella Hasson - Value Drug Kyle McCormick PharmD & Brandon Antinopoulos, PharmD Kerry Trueman - AlignRx Nishaminy (Nish) Kasbekar, PharmD, BSPharm, FASHP - Penn Medicine  Mark Pilkington, BS Pharm, MS Justin Leonard - PrimeRx Michael D. Hogue, PharmD, FAPhA Victoria Elliot - CEO PPA

This week we look at a somewhat confusing, possibly problematic FDA statement, as well as the anti-compounding bills popping up across the country. Our Deep Dive this week is a hot topic: AI in pharmacies — how it’s being used successfully, but also how you can use it to streamline your workflow and, yes, even increase your bottom line. Our expert will tell you what to look for, and what easy pitfall you need to avoid. Links from the podcast: The troublesome FDA statement: https://fllw.me/4utzQIw APC’s Snapshot of Pharmacy Compounding: https://a4pc.org/snapshot Read more about the 2002 Supreme Court case "Thompson v. Western States Medical Center": https://www.oyez.org/cases/2001/01-344 TJM Labs: https://tjmlabs.com Join APC: https://a4pc.org/join

Welcome to this special three-part press coverage series from the Pharmacy Podcast Network, recorded on location at the Pennsylvania Pharmacists Association Annual Conference, held February 20th through the 22nd at the Hilton Harrisburg. This series is proudly sponsored by Value Drug Company and the Pennsylvania Pharmacists Care Network — PPCN — as they celebrate their 10th anniversary of advancing pharmacist-led patient care across the Commonwealth.   In this episode we hear from: Darryle Tillman, RPh & John DeJames Jonathan Ference PharmD Jake Reckenbauher Dr Gavin Merin & Angela York - Value Drug Tom DePietro

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.

In this inspiring episode of CPhT Connect, host Mike Johnston, CPhT-Adv, sits down with Ellaine Sisomphou-Ramos, a nationally certified pharmacy technician whose career is a masterclass in professional growth and self-advocacy. Originally trained as a nurse in the Philippines, "Ella" shares her remarkable journey of transitioning to the U.S. pharmacy landscape, moving from high-volume retail to a specialized role in outpatient infusion and specialty pharmacy. Her dedication to clinical excellence recently earned her a nomination as one of the Top 50 Most Influential Leaders in The Pharmacy 50 Awards by Pharmacy Podcast Network, where she ranked in the top 45—a powerful testament to the impact a technician can have on the entire profession.

Dental care during pregnancy is often overlooked in routine prenatal counseling, yet hormonal changes, frequent vomiting, dehydration, and acid exposure can significantly impact oral health in pregnancy. In this episode of the MaternalRx Podcast, host Dr. Danielle Plummer, PharmD speaks with Dr. Michael Duboff, DMD, about the critical importance of dental care during pregnancy and how pharmacists and healthcare providers can help prevent long-term complications. From enamel erosion caused by hyperemesis gravidarum to pregnancy gingivitis and periodontal disease, this conversation explores what happens inside the mouth during pregnancy, when tooth damage becomes irreversible, and what practical steps patients and healthcare providers can take to protect oral health. Dr. Duboff also addresses common misconceptions about the safety of dental treatment during pregnancy, including fluoride use, dental X-rays, anesthetics, and the importance of preventive dental care. The episode also highlights insurance and access issues, including how some insurance plans and Medicaid programs may expand dental coverage during pregnancy, an important opportunity for patients to receive needed care. This episode emphasizes the critical role pharmacists can play in maternal health education, early identification of oral health risks, and patient counseling. You'll Learn: • How repeated gastric acid exposure from vomiting can weaken tooth enamel during pregnancy • Why brushing immediately after vomiting can worsen enamel erosion • Safe oral care strategies for pregnant patients with severe nausea or hyperemesis gravidarum • What pregnancy gingivitis is and why hormonal changes increase gum inflammation and bleeding • How fluoride varnish and high-fluoride toothpaste help protect enamel during pregnancy • Why dental cleanings every 3 months may benefit pregnant patients • The link between periodontal disease and adverse pregnancy outcomes, including preterm birth and low birth weight • Why dental treatment—including X-rays and local anesthetics—is generally safe during pregnancy • Restorative treatment options for enamel erosion and tooth decay, including fillings, crowns, and bonding • How insurance coverage and Medicaid policies may provide expanded dental benefits during pregnancy • The important role pharmacists can play in oral health counseling for pregnant patients Key Clinical Takeaways 1. Gastric Acid Damages Tooth Enamel Frequent vomiting exposes teeth to stomach acid, which erodes enamel and exposes the underlying dentin, increasing the risk of decay and sensitivity. 2. Do NOT Brush Immediately After Vomiting Brushing immediately after vomiting can scrub away weakened enamel. Instead: Rinse with water or a baking soda solution Wait about 30 minutes before brushing 3. Pregnancy Increases Risk of Gingivitis Hormonal changes during pregnancy increase gum inflammation and bleeding, making good oral hygiene and professional cleanings even more important. 4. Dental Care During Pregnancy Is Safe Preventive care and many dental treatments—including dental X-rays with shielding and local anesthetics—are considered safe, particularly during the second trimester. 5. Preventive Care Is Essential Regular dental visits, fluoride treatments, and proper oral hygiene can help prevent irreversible enamel damage and periodontal disease. 6. Insurance Coverage May Improve During Pregnancy Some insurance plans and Medicaid programs expand dental coverage for pregnant patients, providing an important opportunity to receive preventive care and necessary dental treatment. Practical Counseling Tips for Pharmacists Pharmacists can support pregnant patients by recommending: • Rinsing with water or baking soda solution after vomiting • Waiting 30 minutes before brushing teeth • Using fluoride toothpaste or prescription high-fluoride toothpaste if appropriate • Maintaining hydration whenever possible • Scheduling regular dental visits during pregnancy • Seeking evaluation for bleeding gums, tooth sensitivity, or oral pain Because pharmacists are often the most accessible healthcare professionals, they play an important role in identifying oral health risks early and encouraging patients to seek dental care. Connect With Our Guests Dr. Michael Duboff, DMD Practice: AXIS Dental – Las Vegas Email: SmileDesignersLV@yahoo.com Dr. Danielle Plummer, PharmD Website: www.Obstet-Rx.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniellerplummer/

Welcome to PPN – The Precision Medicine Pharmacist, the podcast where science, innovation, and collaboration are redefining patient care. We are kicking off a special two-part series titled Precision Psychiatry in Practice – A Pharmacist–Physician Collaboration. In this series, we explore how precision medicine is reshaping mental health treatment — and what becomes possible when pharmacists and psychiatrists work together with shared clinical goals. Today’s episode, The New Frontier: How Pharmacists and Psychiatrists Are Teaming Up for Precision Mental Health, focuses on how this collaboration began — the challenges that inspired it, the early conversations that shaped it, and the practical steps taken to bring pharmacogenomics into psychiatric care. Joining us is Dr. Saba Arshad, clinical pharmacist, founder of Med DNA Health, and a strong advocate for integrating pharmacogenomic insight into mental health treatment. We will also hear from Dr. Afshan Khan, psychiatrist and clinical partner in this model of care, as we explore how their professional paths aligned to create something new. In this first episode, we will lay the foundation — examining the “why” behind precision psychiatry and the systems that had to evolve to support it. Then, in part two, Dr. Khan will join us more extensively as we move from framework to real-world impact, sharing patient cases, clinical outcomes, and lessons learned from implementing precision medicine in practice.

Welcome back to season 9! We’re kicking it off with my first powerhouse guest, whose mission is to bring clarity, safety, and evidence-based understanding to hyperbaric oxygen therapy and integrative wellness. There is a growing wave of interest in longevity and recovery therapies, but also a lot of confusion and misinformation. She breaks down the science (and safety) of one of the most powerful, foundational tools we have for reducing inflammation, accelerating healing, and supporting long-term health.  Nicole Garrett is the CEO of Under Pressure Hyperbarics, a premier hyperbaric oxygen therapy center in Beverly Hills recognized for its clinical-grade safety standards and results-driven approach to wellness. With nearly two decades of experience in hyperbaric medicine, her career began as a commercial diver and dive medic, where she first learned the life-saving applications of pressure and oxygen in extreme environments. Since then, Nicole has helped open and operate HBOT centers across the country and has become a trusted leader in the field. Her work bridges the gap between medical-grade hyperbaric therapy and modern holistic wellness, offering patients a safe and effective path to healing, recovery, and long-term vitality. Nicole is especially passionate about educating clinicians, patients, and the wellness community on the science, indications, and proper protocols behind hyperbaric therapy. Today, she leads a multidisciplinary team at Under Pressure Hyperbarics that supports surgical recovery, sports performance, chronic inflammation, and overall health optimization using hospital-grade chambers and evidence-aligned treatment plans. Connect with Nicole via: Email: nicole@underpressure.com  Website: Under Pressure Hyperbarics FB: Under Pressure Hyperbarics IG: @underpressurehyperbarics Linked In: Under Pressure Hyperbarics

Welcome to this special three-part press coverage series from the Pharmacy Podcast Network, recorded on location at the Pennsylvania Pharmacists Association Annual Conference, held February 20th through the 22nd at the Hilton Harrisburg. This series is proudly sponsored by Value Drug Company and the Pennsylvania Pharmacists Care Network — PPCN — as they celebrate their 10th anniversary of advancing pharmacist-led patient care across the Commonwealth.   In this episode we hear from: Margie Lydon - Value Drug Company Darren Mensch, PharmD, BCPS, BCACP Hayleigh Monroe - P4 Pharmacy Student Mayank (Dr. Mak) Amin, PharmD, RPh, MBA  Todd Laser - Value Drug Company Jonathan Adly - TJM Labs  Jennifer (Pekich) Urso

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.