VerifiedRx

Hosted by Vizient Center for Pharmacy Practice Excellence

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131

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Aug 2026

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About the show

Delivering short doses of insight for hospitals’ frontline pharmacy professionals, the Vizient pharmacy team brings together experts to verify best practices for navigating today’s pharmacy practice challenges and accelerating career growth. It’s a prescription for success, delivered by the Vizient Center for Pharmacy Practice Excellence.

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August 11, 2026Episode 13420 min

More than a building: the business case for consolidated pharmacy services centers

One of the most difficult—and least discussed—aspects of building a Consolidated Service Center (CSC) is securing executive support and capital investment. Success depends on connecting strategy, financial value and patient outcomes to an organization's broader goals. Ganesh Chandran is joined by Dr. Akeem Bale, Vice President, Pharmacy Services at the University of Texas Medical Branch, and Dr. Laura Mark, Vice President of Pharmacy at Allegheny Health Network, to discuss the strategic, financial, and organizational steps that transformed a promising idea into an approved capital investment. Guest Speakers: Akeem O. Bale, PharmD, MS, MBA, BCPS, BCSCP Vice President, Pharmacy Services Program Director, PGY1/2 HSPAL Residency Program UTMB Health, Department of Pharmacy Services Laura Mark, MS, MHM, PharmD Vice President of Pharmacy Allegheny Health Network Host: Ganesh Chandran, PharmD, MBA Pharmacy Executive Vizient Pharmacy Enterprise Support Show notes: [01:12] How each organization recognized that traditional pharmacy operations could no longer support future growth, expanding ambulatory care, and increasing operational complexity. Why long-term strategic planning, workforce challenges, and enterprise wide support became the driving forces behind pursuing a consolidated service center. [04:39] How successful business cases focus on organizational priorities such as patient access, financial performance, quality outcomes, and total cost of care instead of technology alone. Why demonstrating measurable value through pilots, standardization, and return on investment helps gain executive support for large scale transformation. [08:30] The importance of tailoring proposals to different executive stakeholders while building champions who can advocate for the vision. How early operational improvements and phased implementation can demonstrate value before construction or major capital investments begin. [10:24] Why breaking a consolidated service center strategy into manageable phases creates confidence among executive leaders and improves long term success. How responding to executive questions with refined financial models and scenario planning strengthens both the proposal and organizational trust. [13:12] How creating an enterprise wide pharmacy culture through standardization, trust, and shared leadership prepares teams for organizational change. Why establishing a one team philosophy before opening a new facility creates stronger collaboration and more sustainable operational success. [16:56] Practical advice for pharmacy leaders beginning their own consolidated service center journey, including learning from peer organizations and celebrating incremental progress. Why a consolidated service center should be viewed as an enabler of a broader pharmacy strategy that supports long term growth, scalability, and patient care rather than simply a new building. Links and Resources: Pharmacy Enterprise Support Subscribe Today! Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube RSS Feed

July 28, 2026Episode 13314 min

Insights from the Summer 2026 Spend Management Outlook

Updated inflation projections are only part of the story when it comes to pharmacy planning. Host Carolyn Liptak is joined by Dr. Jeni Hayes and Dr. Amanda Frick, to discuss Vizient’s Summer 2026 Spend Management Outlook and why utilization trends, reimbursement, ambulatory care, and the expanding pipeline of advanced therapies are becoming just as important as inflation when preparing health systems for 2027 and beyond. Guest speakers: Jeni Hayes, PharmD, MS Pharm, BCPS Senior Clinical Manager, Market Insights & Forecasting Vizient Clinical Spend Management Amanda Frick, PharmD, BCPS Senior Clinical Manager, Market Insights and Forecasting Vizient Clinical Spend Management Host: Carolyn Liptak, MBA, BS Pharm Pharmacy Executive Director, Regulatory Compliance Vizient Center for Pharmacy Practice Excellence Show notes: 01:03 Why this year's Spend Management Outlook expands beyond inflation to include utilization, reimbursement, product mix, and operational readiness. How pharmacy leaders can use these broader market signals to make stronger strategic and financial decisions. 01:54 The updated 2027 pharmaceutical inflation projection and why it increased from the previous forecast. Why organizations should pair national benchmarks with their own purchasing data to improve budgeting accuracy. 03:28 Three major trends transforming pharmacy planning, including ambulatory growth, utilization, and enterprise collaboration. Why these consistent themes are changing how health systems approach long term pharmacy strategy. 04:25 How new utilization analyses provide earlier insight into future pharmacy demand than inflation data alone. Examples of shifting trends in oncology therapies and GLP 1 medications that are influencing operational planning. 05:34 Why GLP 1 growth is creating opportunities that extend well beyond pharmacy budgeting. How retail pharmacy, specialty pharmacy, pharmacist led clinics, and medication management can strengthen patient care and organizational performance. 07:10 Why pharmacy has evolved into an enterprise wide capability that impacts access, reimbursement, and financial performance. How stronger collaboration across pharmacy, finance, revenue cycle, and clinical teams supports future readiness. 08:03 Emerging pipeline trends, including continued oncology growth and the rise of advanced therapies. Why cell therapies, gene therapies, and RNA based medicines require organizations to prepare differently than traditional medications. 08:53 How health systems are preparing months before therapy approval by building operational and clinical infrastructure. Why advanced therapies demand coordination across pharmacy, laboratory, nursing, finance, and physician teams. 10:33 The expansion of advanced therapies into autoimmune, neurologic, cardiac, and rare disease treatment. Why organizations must balance planning for both high cost therapies and therapies with growing patient demand. 11:44 How pipeline monitoring has evolved into a strategic planning tool rather than simply tracking approvals. Why early preparation helps organizations identify operational gaps before new therapies reach the market. 12:36 Key takeaways on preparing for the future of pharmacy through utilization data, operational planning, and enterprise collaboration. Resources available through the Spend Management Outlook Insights Hub to support local budgeting and long term strategy. Links and Resources: Vizient Spend Management Outlook Insight Hub Subscribe Today! Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube RSS Feed

July 14, 2026Episode 13212 min

More than a brand: Strategic botulinum toxin decisions

Botulinum toxin products are used across a wide range of therapeutic indications, yet many health systems have not evaluated whether product selection aligns with both clinical evidence and financial stewardship. Matt Groth, Director of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Supply Chain Management at the University of Rochester Medical Center, joins Kerry Schwarz to discuss how his team implemented a botulinum toxin stewardship strategy by evaluating evidence, engaging clinicians, and standardizing product selection. Guest Speaker: Matthew D. Groth, PharmD, MS Director of Pharmacy Pharmaceutical Supply Chain Management University of Rochester Medical Center Host: Dr. Kerry Schwarz, Pharm.D., MPH Senior Clinical Manager, Evidence-Based Medicine and Outcomes Vizient Center for Pharmacy Practice Excellence Show Notes: 00:05 Introduction Learn why botulinum toxin stewardship is an emerging opportunity for health systems. Hear how clinical evidence and financial strategy can work together to optimize product selection. 01:25 Reviewing the evidence Explore the evidence supporting available botulinum toxin products, including indications, safety, and dosing considerations. Understand why limited clinical differences between products create opportunities for formulary evaluation. 02:31 Identifying stewardship opportunities Learn how organizations evaluate acquisition costs, reimbursement, payer policies, and contracting opportunities. Discover how financial analysis helps identify opportunities to reduce costs while maintaining quality patient care. 04:29 Implementing a preferred product strategy Hear how provider engagement, financial transparency, and P&T committee support helped drive adoption. Learn how a phased implementation approach increased market share while improving financial performance. 08:11 Lessons learned from implementation Explore the operational considerations that support successful implementation, from inventory management to prior authorizations. Learning why collaboration with physicians, nurses, office staff, and billing teams is essential to long term success. 10:57 Key takeaways Review the core elements of a successful botulinum toxin stewardship strategy. Learn how multidisciplinary collaboration can improve value while maintaining high quality patient care. Subscribe Today! Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube RSS Feed

June 30, 2026Episode 13115 min

From clinician to executive: Developing pharmacy’s next leaders

As health systems grow more complex and executive expectations continue to expand, organizations must develop the next generation of pharmacy leaders. Host Carolyn Liptak is joined by Dr. Bonnie Levin and Dr. Cedric Terrell to discuss the growing pharmacy leadership pipeline challenge, the skills today's leaders need to succeed, and practical ways to identify and develop the next generation of pharmacy executives. Guests: Bonnie Levin, PharmD, MBA, FASHP VP, Pharmacy Services Medstar Health Cedric Terrell, PharmD, MHA SVP & Chief Pharmacy Officer Pharmacy Enterprise Services CommonSpirit Health Host: Carolyn Liptak, MBA, BS Pharm Pharmacy Executive Director, Regulatory Compliance Vizient Center for Pharmacy Practice Excellence Show Notes: 00:54 - The Pharmacy Leadership Pipeline Why healthsystems are facing a shortage of pharmacy leaders. The impact of retirements, workforce changes, and succession planning challenges. How evolving expectations are reshaping leadership roles as pharmacy creates "a table that others want to sit at." 02:21 - The Modern Pharmacy Executive How pharmacy leadership has changed over the last several years. Why leaders now oversee larger, more complex healthcare enterprises. Why today's leaders must think like pharmacy business executives, not just department directors. 03:31 - Skills Every Future Leader Needs The growing importance of financial stewardship and business acumen. Why strategic thinking is just as valuable as clinical expertise. How pharmacy leaders create value through operations, finance, and innovation. 04:46 - Identifying Emerging Leaders What makes an informal leader stand out, from raising their hand to offering solutions instead of problems. Why leadership is a behavior, not a position. The importance of mentoring future leaders and exposing them to experiences beyond their own department. 06:06 - Preparing the Next Generation Where pharmacy education and leadership development are falling short. Why financial literacy, budgeting, and operational knowledge are essential leadership skills. How early exposure to business decisions helps future leaders build confidence. 07:31 - Residency and Real World Experience The value residency programs provide in developing clinical expertise. Why practical business experience is equally important for future executives. How mentorship and cross functional learning prepare pharmacists for broader leadership roles. 09:16 - Moving Into Executive Leadership How clinically trained pharmacists can expand into enterprise leadership. Bonnie shares why saying yes to leading behavioral health became one of the most valuable experiences of her career. Why leaders should seek opportunities that stretch their skills beyond pharmacy. 11:03 - Career Growth Through Opportunity Why saying yes to unfamiliar challenges accelerates leadership development. Expanding experience into areas like ambulatory care, payer strategy, imaging, and laboratory services. Cedric explains why creating opportunities is more valuable than waiting for them to appear. 12:07 - Leadership Advice Bonnie shares the quote that shaped her leadership philosophy. Cedric reflects on advice from his mentor to prepare today for the role you want three to five years from now. Why successful leaders stay curious and become comfortable making decisions with uncertainty. 13:58 - Looking Ahead Why today's pharmacy leaders are optimistic about the future. The value of innovation, persistence, collaboration, and strong professional relationships. Final reflections on building the next generation of pharmacy executives through mentorship, curiosity, and continuous learning. Subscribe Today! Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube RSS Feed

June 16, 2026Episode 13017 min

Peeling back the layers of learning in residency programs

What happens when learners teach learners? Layered learning is a teaching model that brings pharmacy students, residents, and preceptors together in a collaborative learning environment. Our host Carolyn Liptak is joined by Dr. Sarah Eggers Russell, PharmD, BCACP, CPP of UNC Health REX and Dr. Kimberly James, PharmD of UF Health to discuss how layered learning works in pharmacy residency programs and why it continues to gain traction across healthcare settings. They share perspectives from their own programs and discuss what it takes to create meaningful learning experiences for learners at every stage of training. Guest Speakers: Dr. Sarah Eggers Russell, PharmD, BCACP, CPP UNC Health REX Dr. Kimberly James, PharmD UF Health Host: Carolyn Liptak, MBA, BS Pharm Pharmacy Executive Director, Regulatory Compliance Vizient Center for Pharmacy Practice Excellence Show Notes: 00:05 - What Is Layered Learning? Definition of layered learning and its role in pharmacy education How teaching, mentorship, and patient care occur simultaneously Benefits for learners, preceptors, and patients 01:08 - Residency Program Overviews UNC Health Rex ambulatory care residency program UF Health pediatric pharmacy residency program Opportunities for students, residents, and advanced learners across diverse practice settings 02:22 - How Layered Learning Works in Practice Senior learners mentoring junior learners under pharmacist supervision Developing teaching skills and professional behaviors Expanding direct patient care opportunities while supporting preceptor workloads 03:33 - Defining Roles and Responsibilities Setting expectations before the rotation begins Assessing learner readiness for teaching responsibilities Creating structured orientation processes for all learners Providing feedback and evaluation opportunities for resident preceptors 05:55 - Adapting to Different Learning Styles Tailoring rotations to individual learner needs Gradually increasing clinical responsibilities Using regular feedback sessions and midpoint evaluations Building confidence through progressive independence 08:20 - Building Successful Layered Learning Experiences Differences between primary and co precepting models Leveraging learners to expand patient access and clinical services Using shared precepting across diverse practice environments Creating opportunities for leadership and teaching development 10:42 - Keeping Learners Engaged in Ambulatory Care Managing clinic schedules and patient encounters Evidence based patient case presentations Topic discussions, drug information requests, and interdisciplinary shadowing opportunities Exposure to diagnostic testing and specialty practice areas 12:13 - Structuring Layered Learning in the Inpatient Setting Working across multiple specialty consult services Presenting to interdisciplinary healthcare teams Shadowing opportunities with nursing and other disciplines Using projects to improve patient care and learner engagement 13:39 - Advice for First Time Preceptors Maintaining flexibility and adaptability Meeting learners where they are in their development Keeping communication open through regular check ins Encouraging learners to embrace new challenges and teaching opportunities 14:51 - The Lasting Impact of Layered Learning Benefits for junior learners, advanced learners, and preceptors Strengthening interdisciplinary collaboration Increasing awareness of pharmacy residency programs Bringing fresh perspectives and new ideas into clinical practice 16:34 - Resources and What's Next ASHP Guide for Best Practices of Layered Learning Upcoming Vizient Layered Learning Toolkit currently in development Links and Resources: Residency Guide Best Practices for Resident Engagement in LLM Subscribe Today! Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube RSS Feed

May 26, 2026Episode 12915 min

Healthcare without walls: The growth of consumer - driven care

Direct-to-consumer healthcare is changing how patients engage with care, driven by growing demand for convenience, accessibility, and personalized experiences. VerifiedRx host Stacy Lauderdale is joined by Emily Fitt, Hailey Mulliner, and Heather Pace to discuss the continued rise of telehealth and direct-to-consumer healthcare platforms, the areas experiencing the most growth, and what these evolving models may mean for patients, providers, and health systems in the future. Guest Speakers: Emily Fitt, MHA, MPH Senior Associate, Sg2 Intelligence Vizient, Inc. Hailey Mulliner, MS-HSM Senior Director, Sg2 Intelligence Vizient, Inc. Heather Pace, Pharm.D. Senior Clinical Manager, Ambulatory Vizient, Inc. Host: Stacy Lauderdale, Pharm.D., BCPS AVP, Evidence-Based Medicine Vizient Show Notes: (00:52) The panel discusses where direct-to-consumer healthcare has gained the most traction, including: Men’s reproductive health Women’s contraceptives Dermatology and acne care Behavioral health GLP-1 and obesity management (01:59) Heather explains how GLP-1 medication shortages fueled growth in compounded obesity medications and expanded telehealth services. (02:47) Hailey shares insights from SG2 consumer surveys, emphasizing how patients increasingly want customizable, convenient healthcare experiences like other consumer industries. (03:26) The group explores future expansion areas for direct-to-consumer healthcare, including: Cardiovascular disease management Type 2 diabetes Orthopedic care Cardiometabolic disease monitoring (04:31) Discussion shifts to the benefits and drawbacks for patients, including: Increased convenience and access More comfortable treatment environments Greater patient empowerment Risks of fragmented care and disconnected treatment plans (06:07) Emily outlines concerns for health systems, including: Increased emergency department utilization Lack of coordinated care Medication management gaps Challenges identifying medications prescribed outside the health system (07:03) Heather discusses medication stewardship concerns, particularly as weight loss impacts management of other chronic conditions like hypertension. (07:29) The panel highlights operational challenges for hospitals and procedural teams when patients fail to disclose GLP-1 medications prior to surgeries or colonoscopies. (07:58) The conversation turns to how direct-to-consumer healthcare is permanently changing consumer expectations around convenience and accessibility. (08:36) The panel debates whether health systems should compete with direct-to-consumer companies or pursue partnership strategies. (09:51) Emily discusses how health systems can differentiate themselves by offering the full continuum of care that virtual only providers cannot. (10:20) Heather Pace emphasizes the importance of partnerships between health systems and direct-to-consumer platforms to improve access while maintaining coordinated care. (10:55) The group discusses emerging partnerships in the marketplace, including collaborations between pharmaceutical manufacturers and direct-to-consumer platforms. (12:14)Workforce challenges are explored, including: Competition for clinicians Provider burnout Flexibility offered by virtual care employers (13:17) The panel examines future trends involving AI, including patients using AI to interpret labs and emerging AI-assisted prescribing models in behavioral health. (14:24) Closing thoughts on how direct-to-consumer healthcare is reshaping patient expectations and forcing health systems to rethink care delivery models. Subscribe Today! Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube RSS Feed

May 12, 2026Episode 12812 min

Beyond revenue: Measuring specialty pharmacy team value

Defining and documenting pharmacist interventions beyond prescription revenue is essential to demonstrating the full value of pharmacy teams. Host Carolyn Liptak is joined by Dr. Karen Thomas from the University of Illinois Chicago and Dr. Thom Platt from UK Healthcare to share insights from a multi-system survey exploring how interventions are captured and used. They discuss the variability in current practices, the important role of both pharmacists and technicians, and the opportunity to better quantify clinical and operational impact to C-suite. Guests: Karen C. Thomas, PharmD, PhD, MBA Associate Director, Specialty and Infusion Pharmacies University of Illinois Hospital and Health System Thom Platt, PharmD, PhD, MBA ,BCPS Director of Specialty Pharmacy Services UK HealthCare Host: Carolyn Liptak, MBA, BS Pharm Pharmacy Executive Director, Regulatory Compliance Vizient Center for Pharmacy Practice Excellence Show Notes: 00:05 – Introduction Overview of VerifiedRx and the focus on pharmacy practice excellence. 00:14 – Episode Overview & Guest Introductions Host Carolyn Liptak introduces the topic: capturing the value of pharmacist interventions beyond prescription revenue. Guests: Dr. Karen Thomas, University of Illinois Chicago Dr. Thom Platt, UK Healthcare 00:57 – Health System Backgrounds UIC serves a diverse urban population with a strong Medicaid and Medicare presence UK Healthcare supports patients across Kentucky and surrounding states, including rural populations traveling long distances for specialty care 01:48 – What Sparked the Research Originated from a Vizient work group focused on outcomes and value Need for clearer frameworks to document and report pharmacist interventions Lack of standardized guidance from accrediting bodies and payers 02:56 – Survey Goals and Key Findings Explored how health systems define and document interventions Identified major variability in data collection and reporting Found alignment in defining clinical interventions, less consistency in non clinical ones Included responses from 24 health systems 04:21 – Broader Impact on Pharmacy Practice Reinforces the value of pharmacist contributions beyond revenue Highlights prevention of hospital visits and improved patient outcomes Emphasizes the need to better capture and communicate this value 05:38 – Applying the Research in Practice UIC developed a structured framework and documentation tool Supports initiatives like waste avoidance studies Aims to quantify cost savings from pharmacist interventions 06:49 – Relevance Beyond Specialty Pharmacy Concepts apply across all pharmacy settings Data can support staffing, funding, and program expansion decisions Helps communicate value to internal and external stakeholders 07:52 – Role of Pharmacy Technicians 96 percent of sites report technician involvement in non clinical interventions Examples include resolving medication access issues and addressing social barriers Technicians play a critical role in patient support and care coordination 09:58 – Future Opportunities Push toward standardizing intervention data collection Opportunity to reduce duplication of effort across health systems Goal to create scalable, shared frameworks 10:41 – Strategic Value of Intervention Data Supports conversations with leadership and external partners Demonstrates impact on outcomes like reduced ED visits and length of stay Strengthens partnerships with payers and manufacturers 11:34 – Additional Resources Study published in the Online Journal of Pharmacy Link available for listeners to explore further 12:03 – Closing Remarks Final thoughts and appreciation for guests Call to action: subscribe, share feedback, and stay engaged with VerifiedRx Links and Resources: MDPI - Capturing Value: How Health-System Specialty Pharmacies Define and Document Pharmacist Interventions Subscribe Today! Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube RSS Feed

April 28, 2026Episode 12713 min

Alpha-gal syndrome and impact on patient safety

Alpha-gal syndrome is an emerging and often underrecognized allergy triggered by a tick bite that can cause delayed reactions to red meat and mammalian-derived products. In this episode, host Stacy Lauderdale is joined by clinical experts Zack Stacy and Kyna Henrici to unpack the science behind alpha-gal, its implications in healthcare settings, and the operational challenges providers face in managing this complex condition. Guest Speakers: Zachary Stacy, Pharm.D., MS, FCCP, BCPS Clinical Pharmacy Specialist, Surgery BJC Health Kyna Henrici, RN Medical Evidence Director - Cardiovascular Vizient, Inc. Host: Stacy Lauderdale, Pharm.D., BCPS AVP, Evidence-Based Medicine Vizient, Inc. 00:05 – Introduction Podcast introduction and welcome to VerifiedRx 00:14 – What is alpha-gal syndrome Overview of alpha-gal syndrome Delayed allergic reactions after eating red meat Often linked to tick bites 00:48 – Meet the Guests Zack Stacy, clinical pharmacy specialist Kyna Henrici, medical evidence director 01:10 – Understanding the Allergy Alpha-gal is a carbohydrate in nonprimate mammals that can trigger an allergy in humans Key difference is delayed reaction timing Symptoms are not always easy to trace 01:32 – How It Develops Triggered by tick bites Immune system produces IgE antibodies Oral exposure to alpha-gal leads to delayed reactions IV exposure to alpha-gal can cause immediate reactions 02:17 – Prevalence and Diagnosis Challenges More common in Midwest and southern United States Likely underdiagnosed Often mistaken for general food allergies Allergy may fade over time 03:07 – Risks in Healthcare Settings Patient safety concerns beyond food Mammalian components in medications and devices Examples include heparin and surgical materials 03:44 – Hidden Medication Risks Inactive ingredients can be animal derived Examples include glycerin, lactose, amino acids, stearates Difficult to identify and track 04:42 – Lack of Transparency No centralized ingredient database Sourcing can change frequently Variability across manufacturers and batches 05:33 – Screening in Surgical Settings Medication review at NDC level Identification of active and inactive ingredients May require contacting manufacturers 06:45 – Timing Challenges Urgent procedures limit investigation time Manufacturer responses may take days Alternative medications often needed 07:14 – Identifying At Risk Patients Many patients are unaware they have alpha-gal syndrome Screening includes questions about dairy tolerance Three patient categories used for evaluation 08:32 – Using Dairy as a Screening Tool Dairy tolerance helps guide risk level Food exposure typically higher than medication exposure Determines need for deeper review 09:12 – Managing Emergencies Focus shifts from avoidance to risk mitigation Use of team communication and clear documentation Preparation for unavoidable exposure 10:03 – Prevention and Preparedness Stock alpha-gal safe medications when possible Prepare for allergic reactions with standard treatments 10:47 – Team Based Care Approach Collaboration across care teams is essential Premedication strategies may be used Close monitoring for reactions 11:11 – Gaps in Care Limited visibility into product ingredients Need for better labeling and transparency 11:33 – Need for Standardization Call for clearer guidance and clinician education Desire for centralized resource for medication ingredients 12:24 – Monitoring Challenges CDC tracking decreased after privatization of testing Cases likely still increasing 12:53 – Closing Remarks Links and Resources: Alpha-gal Syndrome | Alpha-gal Syndrome | CDC Subscribe Today! Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube RSS Feed

April 14, 2026Episode 12617 min

Efficiency to excellence: AI’s role in modern pharmacy practice

AI is rapidly reshaping pharmacy practice, raising both concern and opportunity for healthcare teams. Vizient host Kerry Schwarz is joined by Dr. Jason Chou, Vice President of the System Pharmacy Service Line, and Dr. Catherine Oliver, System AVP of Clinical Pharmacy Services at Ochsner Health, to explore how AI is improving efficiency while redefining how pharmacy teams spend their time. They discuss where technology is already making an impact and where its limits still require human expertise. Guest Speakers: Dr. Jason Chou, Pharm.D., MS Vice President, System Pharmacy Service Line Ochsner Health Dr. Catherine Oliver, Pharm.D., BCPS, DPLA, CPGx System AVP, Clinical Pharmacy Services Ochsner Health Host Dr. Kerry Schwarz, Pharm.D., MPH Senior Clinical Manager, Evidence-Based Medicine and Outcomes Vizient Center for Pharmacy Practice Excellence Shownotes: 00:05 — Introduction Announcer welcomes listeners to VerifiedRx, produced by the Vizient Center for Pharmacy Practice Excellence. 00:14 — Episode Overview Host Kerry introduces the topic: the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare and pharmacy. Key themes: Addressing fears of job replacement Identifying real-world use cases Understanding limitations of AI Practical strategies for adoption Guests: Dr. Jason Chou, VP, System Pharmacy Service Line, Ochsner Health Dr. Catherine Oliver, System AVP, Clinical Pharmacy Services, Ochsner Health 01:04 — Will AI Replace Healthcare Jobs? Concern exists, but largely driven by misunderstanding AI is expected to: Augment, not replace, pharmacy roles Improve efficiency in daily workflows AI is not capable of: Independent clinical judgment Meaningful patient interactions Human elements—trust, empathy, and nuance—remain essential. 02:20 — Where AI Can Add Value Today Focus should shift from fear to practical use cases Ideal applications: Reducing non-value-added tasks Improving efficiency Supporting clinical decision-making preparation (not replacing it) 02:39 — Early Use Cases: Operational Efficiency AI can reduce administrative burden such as: Prior authorizations Insurance-related communications Data gathering and documentation Opportunity to eliminate “busy work” and improve staff satisfaction 03:31 — Clinical Workflow Support AI can: Summarize patient charts, labs, and notes Organize large volumes of clinical data Enables pharmacists to: Spend less time preparing Spend more time in patient care and provider interaction 04:08 — Additional Opportunities: Supply Chain & Operations AI can support: Inventory management Purchasing optimization Multi-site coordination Benefits include: Cost savings Improved efficiency Better resource utilization 05:00 — Where to Draw the Line AI should not replace clinical decision-making Limitations include: Lack of experience and judgment Inability to incorporate patient values and preferences Final decisions must remain with clinicians. 05:42 — Preserving the Human Element Patient care involves: Trust Empathy Relationship-building Over-reliance on AI risks eroding patient confidence. 06:11 — Patient Interaction & Transparency Patients want to know: When AI is used How it impacts their care Transparency and communication are critical 06:48 — AI in Direct Patient Care: Ambient Listening AI tools can: Capture conversations during patient visits Reduce documentation burden Important considerations: Patient consent Ability to opt out Privacy concerns 07:31 — Risks of Poor Implementation Poorly designed AI interactions can: Frustrate patients Reduce trust Healthcare AI must avoid: Impersonal experiences Inefficient automation 08:21 — AI as a Tool, Not a Replacement Comparable to tools like: Search engines (e.g., Google) Enhances efficiency without replacing professional roles. 09:12 — Early Success Stories Prior Authorization Optimization AI improves: Data extraction Documentation speed Approval timelines Benefits: Faster patient access to therapy Improved staff satisfaction 10:07 — Clinical Decision Support Enhancements AI-driven rule systems: Identify high-risk patients Reduce unnecessary chart reviews Example outcome: Reduction in time spent reviewing charts without intervention Frees pharmacists for: Medication reconciliation Patient counseling 11:11 — Impact on Workforce Engagement Staff report: Increased satisfaction More time for meaningful work AI seen as an enabler rather than a threat 12:03 — Vendor Landscape & Challenges Rapid growth of AI vendors addressing niche problems Key risks: Data security concerns Vendor quality variability Overlapping or redundant solutions 12:51 — Integration & Workflow Considerations Successful AI tools must: Integrate with EHRs Align with pharmacy workflows Avoid siloed systems Poor integration leads to inefficiency and adoption barriers 14:04 — Vendor Evaluation Considerations Assess: Clinical and operational expertise Product maturity Implementation effort Risk vs benefit Balance between: Ready-made solutions Custom-built tools requiring internal resources 14:56 — Practical Advice for Health System Leaders Develop a system-wide AI strategy Collaborate across departments (not siloed decisions) Engage: IT Legal Ethics teams Avoid duplicative solutions across service lines 15:31 — Building Organizational Readiness Be open to learning and experimentation Ask questions and maintain healthy skepticism Focus on: Improving workflows Enhancing patient outcomes Supporting workforce engagement 16:02 — Infrastructure & Speed of Innovation AI vendors move quickly Organizations must: Be prepared to adapt rapidly Avoid delays that hinder innovation Balance speed with governance and safety 16:27 — Closing Kerry thanks the guests for their insights Encourages continued exploration of AI’s evolving role in healthcare Reminder to subscribe and engage with VerifiedRx. 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March 31, 2026Episode 12510 min

Inside the Medicare Transaction Facilitator: Early wins and growing pains

In this episode of VerifiedRx, Carolyn Liptak is joined by Dr. Jennifer Tussey, Senior Specialty Pharmacy Manager at BJC Health, to discuss early experiences with the Medicare Transaction Facilitator (MTF) and the Medicare Drug Price Negotiation Program. From managing complex data flows and delayed payments to coordinating cross-functional teams and evolving workflows, they share practical insights from the first cycle of implementation. Tune in to learn what’s working, what’s challenging, and how health systems are adapting in real time. Guest speaker: Jennifer Tussey, PharmD, CSP, AAHIVP Senior Specialty Pharmacy Manager Specialty, Oncology, Mail Order BJC Health East Region Host: Carolyn Liptak, MBA, BS Pharm Pharmacy Executive Director, Regulatory Compliance Vizient Center for Pharmacy Practice Excellence Show Notes: 00:05 — Introduction Announcer welcomes listeners to VerifiedRx, produced by the Vizient Center for Pharmacy Practice Excellence. 00:14 — Episode Overview Host Carolyn Liptak introduces the topic: early experiences with the Medicare Drug Price Negotiation Program (MDPNP) and the Medicare Transaction Facilitator (MTF). Discussion focuses on: Implementation planning Early operational challenges Payment and data flow issues Lessons learned from initial rollout Guest: Dr. Jennifer Tussey, Senior Specialty Pharmacy Manager at BJC Health. 00:14 — Key Program Definitions Medicare Drug Price Negotiation Program (MDPNP): Created under the Inflation Reduction Act (2022) Allows CMS to negotiate prices for select high-cost drugs without generic/biosimilar competition Establishes a Maximum Fair Price (MFP) Medicare Transaction Facilitator (MTF): Operational system supporting: Data exchange Payment processing Coordination between CMS, manufacturers, and dispensers Ensures Part D beneficiaries receive negotiated pricing 02:00 — Health System Context Jennifer oversees specialty, oncology, and mail-order pharmacy operations within BJC Health’s east region. Approximately 12 pharmacies impacted by MTF processes. 02:27 — Implementation Strategy Initial steps: Participation in CMS webinars Formation of a multidisciplinary team Key roles involved: Pharmacy leadership Data analyst Business manager Reconciliation technician Revenue cycle team Responsibilities include: Tracking claims and payment status Managing 340B eligibility Reconciling payments across multiple systems (MTF, Beacon, internal systems) 03:54 — Enrollment Experience Enrollment process was relatively straightforward: Entity signatures System setup for remittance processing Complexity increased post-enrollment due to: Data fragmentation across systems Limited access for revenue cycle teams Required strong coordination across departments. 05:09 — Data & Payment Flow Challenges Data flow remains slow but improving. Current timeline: ~19 days for payment finalization Up to 45 days for resolution if inquiries are required Early collection rates: Initially ~10% Improved to ~60% 05:09 — Operational Workflow Adjustments Monitoring cadence evolved: From daily tracking → now biweekly review cycles Teams review claims approximately 45 days in arrears. 06:02 — Inquiry & Tracking Challenges System limitations: Inquiry submissions may not be saved reliably Lack of built-in tracking tools Requires manual documentation and tracking to monitor claim status and follow-ups. 06:18 — Managing Payment Inconsistencies Payment discrepancies handled through inquiry process. Key challenges: Delayed initiation (must wait for processing window) Extended resolution timelines (up to 45 days) Requires proactive and continuous follow-up. 06:53 — Financial & Resource Challenges Low reimbursement margins under standard refund amounts. Even large systems with wholesale discounts experience tight margins. Significant FTE investment required to manage the process. Smaller systems may face: Greater operational burden Limited staffing capacity 07:33 — Operational Evolution Processes are continuously evolving. Key success factors: Ongoing process refinement Strong internal documentation Rapid incorporation of lessons learned Example: Identifying system issues with inquiry tracking and adjusting workflows accordingly 08:14 — Key Advice: Patience & Persistence Success requires: Patience with slow-moving processes Meticulous follow-up Strong tracking systems (e.g., Excel-based workflows) High claim volume (500+ scripts at a time) necessitates structured tracking tools. 09:07 — Additional Financial Considerations Low net margins combined with high operational workload. Challenges amplified for: Smaller pharmacies Systems with fewer resources Emphasizes importance of operational efficiency and resource planning. 09:36 — Final Takeaways MTF implementation is: Complex Resource-intensive Still evolving Key themes: Strong cross-functional collaboration is essential Processes will require ongoing refinement Financial sustainability remains a concern 09:46 — Closing Carolyn thanks Jennifer for sharing insights and real-world experience. Reminder to subscribe, provide feedback, and stay engaged with VerifiedRx content. Links | Resources: Medicare Drug Price Negotiation Program: Click Here Medicare Transaction Facilitator General Resources: Click Here Pharmacy and Dispensing Entity Resources: Click Here Subscribe Today! Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube RSS Feed