VerifiedRx

John Schoen, Senior Clinical Manager of Evidence-Based Medicine and Drug Information in Vizient's Center for Pharmacy Practice Excellence and Vizient's vaccine subject matter expert, joins host Stacy Lauderdale to discuss key updates to the CDC's childhood Immunization schedule and what they mean for practice.   Guest speaker:     John Schoen, PharmD, BCPS   Senior Clinical Manager of Evidence-Based Medicine and Drug Information    Vizient Center for Pharmacy Practice Excellence     Host:   Stacy Lauderdale, PharmD, BCPS   Associate Vice President  Vizient Center for Pharmacy Practice Excellence   Verified Rx Host    00:00 — Introduction Announcer welcomes listeners to Verified Rx, produced by the Vizient Center for Pharmacy Practice Excellence. 00:14 — Episode Overview Host Stacy Lauderdale introduces the topic: updates to the CDC’s U.S. Childhood Immunization Schedule, revised January 20, 2026. Goal of the episode: explain what changed, what didn’t, and what it means in practice for providers, pharmacists, and families. Guest: John Schoen, Senior Clinical Manager of Evidence-Based Medicine and Drug Information at Vizient and vaccine subject matter expert. 01:16 — What Changed in the CDC Immunization Schedule CDC reorganized the schedule into three recommendation categories. Vaccines were reclassified, not removed. Number of diseases covered under “routine” recommendations decreased from 17 to 11 due to recategorization. 01:50 — Stated Rationale Behind the Changes Rationale provided in executive summary of scientific assessment. The supporting scientific assessment is available online and referenced for transparency (link in resources below). 03:19 — Were Any Vaccines Removed? No vaccines were removed from the CDC schedule. Some vaccines were shifted into different recommendation categories. 03:40 — Category 1: Routine Childhood Vaccinations Vaccines still routinely recommended for all children include: MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) Polio Tdap / DTaP Hib (Haemophilus influenzae type B) Pneumococcal HPV Varicella (chickenpox) 04:27 — Category 2: Vaccines for High-Risk Populations Vaccines recommended for children who meet specific high-risk criteria: RSV monoclonal antibodies (mAb) Hepatitis A Hepatitis B Quadrivalent meningococcal Meningococcal group B Dengue 05:19 — What Changed vs. Stayed the Same Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, and quadrivalent meningococcal moved from routine to high-risk RSV mAb recommendations are effectively unchanged, as high-risk infants are defined as those born to mothers who did not receive the maternal RSV vaccine. Dengue remains risk-based. Meningococcal group B remains a mix of risk-based and shared clinical decision-making. 06:31 — Category 3: Shared Clinical Decision Making (SCDM) Defined by ACIP as an individualized decision made jointly by provider and parent/guardian. Allows vaccination when risk-based criteria are not met but benefit is still considered. 06:52 — Vaccines Under SCDM Vaccines now include: Influenza COVID-19 Rotavirus Hepatitis A Hepatitis B Quadrivalent meningococcal Meningococcal group B 08:05 — What’s New in SCDM Influenza and rotavirus moved from routine to SCDM. Hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and quadrivalent meningococcal also shifted. COVID-19 moved to SCDM in September 2025 for individuals ≥6 months. 08:28 — Insurance Coverage Implications No expected changes in coverage. Vaccines recommended by CDC as of December 31, 2025 remain: Covered without cost-sharing under Affordable Care Act (ACA) plans. Covered by Medicaid, Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), and Vaccines for Children (VFC) program. 09:14 — Impact on Pharmacy Vaccine Access Pharmacists are considered healthcare providers under CDC SCDM definitions. Authority to administer vaccines primarily determined by state laws. Standing orders, protocols, and collaborative practice agreements may need to be updated, as applicable, to address language related to ‘routine’ immunizations for children. 10:27 — Recommendations for Providers & Organizations For providers: Become familiar with schedule changes. Be prepared for patient and parent education. Recognize differences between CDC and other professional guidelines. For organizations: Review EHR documentation and order sets. Consult local state regulations to ensure compliance with vaccine administration practices. Review standing orders/protocols and collaborative practice agreements to determine if revisions are needed. Monitor vaccine utilization and adjust inventory accordingly. 11:24 — Resources & Closing Additional CDC and Vizient resources will be linked in the show notes. Announcer closes with subscription and feedback reminder. Links | Resources:    Additional resources HHS press release on changes to childhood immunizations schedule Assessment of US childhood and adolescent immunization schedule HHS fact sheet: CDC childhood immunization schedule Revised CDC child and adolescent immunization schedule ACIP shared clinical decision-making recommendations   Vizient resource Minute Market Insight   VerifiedRx Listener Feedback Survey: We would love to hear from you - Please click here   Subscribe Today! Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube RSS Feed  

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services has finalized the 2026 Outpatient Perspective Payment System (OPPS) rule, with most policies taking effect on January 1, 2026. Jenna Stern, Vice President of Regulatory Affairs and Public Policy at Vizient, joins host Carolyn Liptak, Pharmacy Executive Director in Vizient's Center for Pharmacy Practice Excellence, to discuss key updates to payment policies, payment rates, and quality provisions affecting Medicare beneficiaries receiving care in hospital outpatient departments and ambulatory surgical centers.   Guest speaker:    Jenna Stern Vice President of Regulatory Affairs and Public Policy Vizient Host:   Carolyn Liptak, MBA, RPh  Pharmacy Executive Director Vizient  Verified Rx Host   Show Notes: 00:05 — Introduction Announcer welcomes listeners to VerifiedRx. Host Carolyn Liptak, Pharmacy Executive Director at Vizient, introduces the episode focus: the 2026 CMS Outpatient Prospective Payment System (OPPS) Final Rule. Guest: Jenna Stern, VP of Regulatory Affairs and Public Policy at Vizient.   01:12 — Overview of the OPPS Final Rule OPPS sets Medicare payment for most hospital outpatient services. Published annually (typically November), effective January 1. Covers payment rates, policies, quality programs, and compliance requirements. Note: CMS delayed enforcement of hospital price transparency requirements until April 1, 2026.   01:34 — Key Takeaways From the 2026 Final Rule Jenna’s high-level insights: Hospitals will continue facing financial pressure in 2026. Modest payment rate increase combined with reimbursement-reducing policies. Expansion of site-neutral payment policies will be particularly impactful. Rule reflects emerging administration priorities shaping future policy.   02:21 — OPPS Payment Rate Update for 2026 CMS finalized a 2.6% OPPS schedule increase factor for hospitals meeting quality reporting requirements.   02:40 — What the 2.6% Increase means Based on: 3% market basket update –0.7% productivity adjustment Results in a modest net increase. Slightly better than the proposed 2.4% increase, though still viewed as inadequate. CMS estimates $8 billion increase in total OPPS payments compared to 2025.   03:37 — 340B Remedy Offset: Background From 2018–2022, CMS paid for 340B drugs at ASP –22.5%. Prior Supreme Court decision from 2022 found that CMS lacked authority to vary rates as finalized in prior rulemaking (e.g., without using drug acquisition cost surveys to inform policy).   04:13 — 340B Remedy Offset in the 2026 Final Rule CMS considered increasing the remedy offset from 0.5% to 2%. Stakeholders strongly opposed the increase due to hospital financial strain.   05:10 — Final Outcome CMS retained the 0.5% offset for 2026. CMS signaled that larger offsets may be proposed for 2027. This marks the first year the remedy offset takes effect,   06:00 — Site-Neutral Payment Policy: What It Is Concept: same service = same payment, regardless of site of care. Hospital concern: policy reduces hospital reimbursement without accounting for site of care differences, patient acuity, overhead, or service complexity.   06:15 — Site-Neutral Expansion in the 2026 Rule CMS expanded site-neutral payment to include drug administration services at excepted off-campus provider-based departments.   07:08 — Financial Impact Reimbursement aligns with Physician Fee Schedule rates. CMS estimates $290 million reduction in outpatient spending for 2026. $220 million of savings accrue directly to Medicare. Not implemented in a budget-neutral manner.   08:14 — Non-Opioid Pain Management Payments Temporary additional payments began January 1, 2025. Authorized under the NO PAIN Act (Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2023).   08:28 — What’s New for 2026 CMS finalized the renewal of: 5 drugs 13 medical devices eligible for separate payment in HOPD and ASC settings. Per statue, payments available through December 31, 2027.   09:32 — Process Improvements CMS will allow more frequent consideration of new qualifying products (not limited to annual updates). Quality criteria unchanged; timing flexibility added. CMS released guidance on how stakeholders can engage for inclusion.   10:58 — OPPS Drug Acquisition Cost Survey CMS finalized plans to survey hospitals on acquisition costs for separately payable OPPS drugs.   11:21 — Why CMS Is Advancing the Survey Addresses Supreme Court requirements from prior 340B litigation. Aligns with White House Executive Order on lowering drug prices. Positions CMS to use survey data for 2027 rulemaking.   12:47 — OPPS Packaging Thresholds for 2026 Drugs and biologics: Threshold remains at $140. Diagnostic radiopharmaceuticals: Increased to $655 (from $630). Products below thresholds retain Status Indicator “N” (packaged payment).   13:26 — Why Billing Packaged Drugs Still Matters Even though not separately payable, hospitals must bill for packaged drugs. Billing data feeds cost reports used to calculate future bundled payments. Failure to bill can result in inaccurately low reimbursement.   14:14 — Elimination of the Inpatient-Only (IPO) List CMS finalized a three-year transition to eliminate the IPO list by January 1, 2029.   14:32 — Why This Change Is Significant IPO list historically ensured certain services were provided inpatient only. CMS emphasizes provider judgment in determining site of care. Raises concerns about: Patient safety Payer coverage changes Pressure to move services outpatient   16:28 — ASC Covered Procedure List Expansion CMS expanded the ASC Covered Procedure List. Enables more Medicare covered services to be performed in the ASC settings.   16:48 — Price Transparency: Still a Priority No major overhaul, but continued refinement. CMS exploring new uses of price transparency data beyond patient comparison.   17:46 — Most Critical Policies to Watch Jenna highlights: Modest OPPS payment increase Site-neutral payment expansion 340B remedy offset Drug acquisition cost survey Broader regulatory activity beyond OPPS   18:43 — Available Vizient Resources OPPS Final Rule Summary Government Relations & Public Policy Summaries  Advocacy   19:20 — Closing Carolyn thanks Jenna for her insights. Reminder to subscribe, like, and share feedback. VerifiedRx is produced by the Vizient Center for Pharmacy Practice Excellence.   Links | Resources:  Medicare Program: Hospital Outpatient Prospective Payment and Ambulatory Surgical Center Payment Systems; Quality Reporting Programs; Overall Hospital Quality Star Rating; Hospital Price Transparency; and Notice of Closure of a Teaching Hospital and Opportunity To Apply for Available Slots: Click Here CMS fact sheet on the Final Rule: Click Here Outpatient Prospective Payment System (OPPS) Drug Acquisition Cost Survey: Click Here Vizient Office of Public Policy and Government Relations final rule summary:  Click Here Final List of Qualifying Products for Separate Payment for non-opioid pain medications: (Table 136, pgs. 1138-1140)   VerifiedRx Listener Feedback Survey: We would love to hear from you - Please click here   Subscribe Today! Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube RSS Feed    

Pharmacy buyers play a critical role in keeping hospitals running—and their partnership with a GPO can make all the difference. In this episode of Verified Rx, Jackie Stokes sits down with Theresa Brown and Michelle Crump, two powerhouse pharmacy buyers and members of Vizient’s Pharmacy Technician Committee, to talk about the tools, programs, and peer networks that help them thrive in their roles. From leveraging pharmacy analytics to navigating shortages, maximizing NovaPlus value, and strengthening buyer-to-buyer collaboration, this episode is packed with insights to help pharmacy teams work smarter, save money, and support better patient care.   Guest speakers:  Theresa Brown National Pharmacy Purchasing Specialist Prospect Medical Holdings   Michelle Crump, ASBA, CPhT National Certified Pharmacy Technician Buyer Pharmacy Host: Jackie Stokes Program Services Manager Center for Pharmacy Practice Excellence (CPPE) Vizient   Show Notes: [00:48] — Guest Introductions Theresa National pharmacy purchasing specialist Background: inventory control, home infusion startup, pharmacy technician educator [01:14] — Michelle Nationally certified pharmacy technician since 2016 Pharmacy buyer at a small independent county critical access hospital Transitioned from accounting into pharmacy purchasing   [01:26] — The Role of Vizient in Supporting Pharmacy Buyers Theresa: Biggest benefit: relationship with pharmacy executive & sourcing team Uses Pharmacy Analytics (formerly VSAP) to evaluate spend and inventory control across 63 facilities   [02:16] — How Pharmacy Analytics Supports Buyers Theresa: Data mining on spend increases/decreases Tracks product returns Identifies sharing opportunities to prevent waste [02:59] — Michelle’s Experience Analytics helps mitigate waste Collaboration with other buyers has been essential — especially for someone new to the buyer role Learns navigation of Vizient systems and how to work with the local GPO Peer support helps demystify a “diverse and complex” buyer role   [04:02] — Value of the Vizient Pharmacy Technician Committee Provides national peer networking Helps buyers learn from subject matter experts Even highly experienced buyers (35+ years) learn from every call   [04:41] — Vizient Programs: NovaPlus, NES, Forum Calls, Hot Info Bimonthly Forum Calls Provide regulatory updates Help expand buyer knowledge in real time Hot Info Weekly Updates Keeps users informed on inventory, shortages, spend impacts [05:31] — Michelle on Program Impact Calls and shared expertise were critical when she was new NovaPlus program especially valuable in critical access settings   [06:32] — Deep Dive: How the NovaPlus Program Works Michelle explains: NovaPlus (Y-label) aligns with manufacturer-labeled products (M-label) Quarterly rebates provide significant savings Critical access hospitals benefit via 340B optimizer software that extracts outpatient utilization to qualify for discounted M-label purchasing Can result in “significant savings” depending on contract structure   [08:38] — What If NovaPlus Pricing Isn’t the Best Price? Michelle: Buyer’s responsibility to identify price discrepancies Communicates with Vizient representative to reassess contracting needs Often resolved through rebates or future price adjustments [09:30] — Theresa: Price challenges taken seriously Many result in price reductions visible in Hot Info the next week Demonstrates importance of strong GPO relationships   [10:07] — Understanding NES: NovaPlus Enhanced Supply Theresa: Her hospitals are exploring NES participation Requires 90% compliance (higher than standard 80%) Benefits include prioritized product access during shortages Critical when national backorders exceed 200+ items Ensures better patient care continuity   [11:34] — Supply Assurance & Mitigation Strategies Michelle: During the North Carolina hurricane, Vizient’s mitigation strategy was “imperative” Vizient engaged Baxter directly to resolve critical fluid shortages Small hospitals especially reliant on support in crisis situations [12:36] — Theresa: Shortage team provides substitution guidance and clinical appropriateness information Vizient recommendations support discussions with local clinical teams Crucial during COVID start date — her first day in national role   [13:23] — Continuing Education (CE) Programs Theresa: Vizient CE programs help maintain technician licensure Webinars are interactive, engaging, and more informative than generic CE resources   [14:07] — Networking and Pharmacy Aggregation Groups (PAGs) Theresa: PAGs offer cost savings and peer collaboration Ability to share information and bring value back to her own network [14:44] — Michelle’s Example of System-to-System Collaboration Shared compounded syringes (from a 503B facility) with another hospital to prevent waste Highlights real-world benefits of PAG networking   [15:52] — Addressing National Challenges Together Theresa: PAG roundtables help uncover shared struggles (e.g., DSCSA serialization issues) Members provide actionable advice on what’s working in their systems Reinforces “we’re all in the same boat”   [16:50] — Supporting and Elevating Pharmacy Technicians Jackie’s goal: Support technicians and recognize the value they bring Committee exists to uplift and empower pharmacy buyers/techs [17:05] — Michelle: Worked with leadership to create a tiered technician level system Helps techs gain skills, feel valued, and earn raises Improves career satisfaction and retention   [17:46] — Closing Reflections Theresa: Being part of Vizient is “an honor and a privilege” Values shared knowledge and strong relationships [18:00] — Michelle: Gratitude for collaboration and guidance over the years Vizient connections were vital for adapting to the buyer role   VerifiedRx Listener Feedback Survey: We would love to hear from you - Please click here   Subscribe Today! Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube RSS Feed

In Part 2 of the 2026 pipeline series, host Carolyn Liptak welcomes Dr. Amanda Frick, Senior Clinical Manager, Strategic Clinical Intelligence at Vizient, to explore the advanced therapies pipeline: cell therapies, gene therapies, tissue-engineered products, and combination advanced therapy products. The discussion explores major pipeline trends, six leading products to watch, and the growing innovation expected to shape clinical practice in 2026.   Guest speakers:  Amanda Frick, PharmD, BCPS Senior Clinical Manager, Strategic Clinical Intelligence Spend Management Vizient Host: Carolyn Liptak, MBA, BS Pharm Pharmacy Executive Director Center for Pharmacy Practice Excellence (CPPE) Vizient    Show Notes: [00:05] — Introduction Announcer opens the episode. Host Carolyn Liptak introduces the focus on advanced therapies: cell & gene therapies, tissue-engineered products, and combination products. Guest: Dr. Amanda Frick, Senior Clinical Manager, Strategic Clinical Intelligence at Vizient. [01:07] — Defining Advanced Therapies FDA groups cell and gene therapies within advanced therapies. Total FDA-approved advanced therapies: 46. Amanda monitors 29 drug-like therapies within that group. [02:01] — Pipeline Size and Approval Activity S. pipeline: 264 agents in development. About 10 agents approach FDA decision annually. Actual approvals: 5–7 per year on average. [02:56] — Big-Picture Trends in Cell & Gene Therapy Oncology dominates 40–50% of all CGTs in development. Expanding into autoimmune, neurology, and earlier-phase therapies for diabetes, angina, osteoarthritis. Movement toward allogeneic ("off-the-shelf") therapies Designed to overcome limits of autologous cell manufacturing. Reduces wait time and manufacturing failures. Resurgence of therapeutic vaccines Currently 3 approved (Sipuleucel-T, Talimogene, Papzimeos ). 20+ vaccines in the pipeline, largely targeted to cancer. CE program coming Jan 29. [06:13] — Therapy #1:  Tabelecleucel or Tab-cel (Allogeneic EBV-Specific T-Cell Therapy) First allogeneic T-cell therapy expected in the U.S. For EBV-positive post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder (PTLD). “Off-the-shelf” and donor-derived. [07:07] — Clinical Need & Outcomes Currentstandard of care: rituximab. After relapse, survival <1 month (HSCT) or <4 months (solid organ). Phase 3 data: 90% one-year survival. Regulatory Status Prior FDA CRL due to manufacturing (third-party issues). Expected approval: January 10, 2026. [09:00] — Therapy #2:  Kresladi  (Autologous Gene Therapy for LAD-I) Treats severe leukocyte adhesion deficiency (LAD-I), typically diagnosed in infancy. Could eliminate need for stem cell transplant (often limited by lack of matched donors). [11:39] — Clinical Outcomes Phase 1/2 data (n=9): 100% survival at one year Major reduction in hospitalizations Discontinuation of prophylactic antibiotics Regulatory Status Multiple delays due to CMC (chemistry, manufacturing, controls) questions. Resubmitted Oct 2025; anticipated approval March 28, 2026. [13:27] — Therapy #3: ORCA-T (Enhanced Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplant) Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cells + regulatory and conventional T cells (Tregs + Tcons). Designed to improve: Graft-versus-tumor effect Graft-versus-infection protection Reduction in graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) [14:31] — Clinical Significance Could markedly improve quality of life after transplant. Regulatory Status Anticipated approval: April 6, 2026. [15:01] — Therapy #4: Vusolimogene oderparepvec (RP1) (RP1 — Oncolytic HSV-1 Virus) Off-the-shelf genetically modified HSV-1 oncolytic virus. For advanced melanoma after prior PD-1 inhibitor therapy. [16:17] — Why It Matters Currently, poised to compete with Amtagvi (TIL therapy). TIL therapy is autologous and slow to manufacture; RP1 is ready-to-use and combines with nivolumab (Opdivo). Regulatory Status PDUFA: April 10, 2026. [16:34] — Therapy #5: INO-3107 (Therapeutic Vaccine for RRP) Targets HPV 6 and 11, which cause recurrent respiratory papillomatosis (RRP). Patients can require several surgeries per year to remove papillomas. [17:34] — Vaccine Mechanism DNA plasmid (vs viral vector in PAP). Lower insertional oncogenesis risk. Potentially improved durability of response. Regulatory Status Manufacturer aims to finish BLA by end of 2025. Expected approval (with priority review): mid–late 2026. [19:17] — Therapy #6: Clemidsogene lanparvovec (Intracerebral Gene Therapy for Hunter Syndrome) One-time treatment for MPS II (Hunter syndrome). Designed to deliver therapy directly into the brain to address neurological progression. [21:21] — Competing Agent Emerging New enzyme therapy tivedenofusp alfa crosses the blood-brain barrier — unlike current ERT (idursulfase). Expected approval: April 5, 2026. Raises payer & clinical sequencing questions: One-time gene therapy vs repeat annual enzyme therapy Durability vs cost (ERT ~$500K/year) Regulatory Status Clemidsogene lanparvovec anticipated approval: February 8, 2026. [22:45] — Cost, Value, and Durability Considerations Gene therapies may reach multi-million-dollar cost brackets. Durability becomes critical for payer adoption. Hospitals face long onboarding timelines for advanced therapies and must choose which to implement. [22:56] — Where to Learn More Spend Management Outlook (formerly Pharmacy Market Outlook) Oncology and pediatric Vizient therapeutic web pages FDA cell/gene therapy webpage CE session on therapeutic vaccines (Jan 29) [23:46] — Closing Carolyn thanks Amanda. Reminder to subscribe, send comments, and explore further resources from Vizient.   Links | Resources:  Spend Management Outlook: Click here Therapeutic class insights: Click here FDA webpage: Click here   Subscribe Today! Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube RSS Feed

If you're wondering which therapies may influence care delivery, budgets, and decision making in 2026, the pipeline offers an early preview and it points to a year defined by innovation. We're seeing new first in class treatments, thoughtful next generation agents, and a biosimilar market where fewer launches are offset by important competitive shifts driven by recent approvals. John Schoen and Heather Pace from the Center for Pharmacy Practice Excellence join Stacy Lauderdale, Associate Vice President of Evidence-Based Medicine and Drug Information and your Verified RX program host to highlight pipeline agents worth watching and discuss what they may mean for care delivery and spend management in the year ahead.   Guest speakers:  John Schoen, PharmD, BCPS   Senior Clinical Manager of Drug Information    Vizient Center for Pharmacy Practice Excellence    Heather Pace, PharmD Senior Clinical Manager of Drug Information    Vizient Center for Pharmacy Practice Excellence      Host:   Stacy Lauderdale, PharmD, BCPS   Associate Vice President  Vizient Center for Pharmacy Practice Excellence   Show Notes: [01:01] — Episode Scope The focus is non-CGT therapies; CGT pipeline will be covered in Part 2. [01:50] — Therapeutic Areas With the Most Approvals Oncology leads the pipeline. Others include infectious disease, neurology, rare disease, endocrine, hepatology, dermatology, and rheumatology. [02:37] — Biosimilars in 2026: Momentum or Headwinds? Discussion of potential “biosimilar void”—only 10% of expiring biologic patents have biosimilars in development. Emerging role of PBM private-label biosimilars. [03:51] — FDA Draft Guidance on Interchangeability FDA exploring interchangeable designation for all biosimilars. Potential shift away from clinical efficacy studies in favor of analytical comparisons. Guidance still in draft and open for public comment. [05:34] — John’s Top Picks for First-in-Class Agents 06:11 — Orviglance First manganese-based, oral MRI contrast agent. Advantages for patients with kidney impairment. Used for liver imaging. [06:20] — Why Non-Gadolinium Matters Lower risk of nephrogenic systemic fibrosis. [06:46] — Tabelecleucel First allogeneic EBV-specific T-cell therapy. For EBV-positive PTLD post-transplant. Could become new standard of care. [07:42] — Tanruprubart First therapy specifically for severe Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS). Shows improved outcomes over IVIG and plasma exchange. [08:20] — Comparing to Standard of Care Review of improved real-world data outcomes. [09:03] — Therapies That May Shift Care Delivery [09:32] — Icotrokinra: First oral IL-23 antagonist for plaque psoriasis. [10:00] — Insulin Icodec First once-weekly basal insulin for type 2 diabetes. Resubmitted after safety concerns in type 1 diabetes. [10:59] — Honorable Mentions Camizestrant SERD for ER+/HER2– metastatic breast cancer. Ensitrelvir (COVID-19) Oral option for pre-exposure prophylaxis. Also being evaluated for treatment. Doravirine + Islatravir (HIV) Introduces new NRTTI class. Cefepime + Zidebactam Active against metallo-β-lactamase–producing organisms. 14:05 — Key Biosimilar Launches Omalizumab (Xolair) First biosimilars in asthma/allergy space. Aflibercept (Eylea) High competition expected pending litigation. Pertuzumab (Perjeta) First biosimilar anticipated in oncology. [15:31] — Biosimilars Approved in 2025, Impacting 2026 Ustekinumab (Stelara): first full year of competition Denosumab (Prolia/Xgeva): 10–15 biosimilars expected Eculizumab (Soliris): notable for rare disease market entry [17:17] — John’s Closing Thoughts Strong mix of first-in-class advances and next-gen convenience therapies. [17:36] — Heather’s Closing Thoughts 2026 will focus on speed and scale after the 2025 biosimilar wave. Pharmacists pivotal in ensuring smooth patient transitions.   VerifiedRx Listener Feedback Survey: We would love to hear from you - Please click here   Subscribe Today! Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube RSS Feed

Pharmacy and Therapeutics (P&T) committees historically operated at the individual hospital level but have evolved into enterprise-wide governance programs due to health system expansion, unprecedented clinical and financial complexity of care, and the emergence of high impact and novel therapeutics. To address this, the Vizient Center for Pharmacy Practice Excellence convened an expert panel that concluded health system enterprise P&T committees are uniquely positioned to balance clinical value with financial stewardship and minimize practice variation. They issued best practice considerations representing a dynamic framework designed to evolve alongside emerging therapies, evolving technologies, and the ongoing transformation of health systems. Joining us today are two members of the expert panel. We have Conor Hanrahan, AVP, enterprise pharmacy services, medication outcomes and stewardship with Intermountain Health and Prabashni Reddy, who at the time of the panel was the executive director of medication use and policy at Mass General Brigham.   Guest speakers:  Prabashni Reddy, RPh, PharmD, MMedSc (former) Executive Director of Medication Use and Policy Mass General Brigham Conor Hanrahan, PharmD, MHA, MS, BCPS, CPHQ AVP, Medication Policy, Outcomes, and Stewardship Intermountain Health, Enterprise Pharmacy Services Host: Kerry Schwarz, PharmD, MPH   Senior Clinical Manager, Evidence-Based Medicine and Outcomes  Center for Pharmacy Practice Excellence (CPPE)   Show Notes:  [01:02-03:38] The value Prabashni and Conor saw in joining the expert panel [03:39-05:33] What Prabashni and Conor learned from interactions during the expert panel  [05:34-10:55] Intriguing actionable enterprise P&T program insights panelists brought to the table that listeners can use [10:56-14:01] Use of criteria and principles to create successful and broadly applicable best practices [14:56-16:00] How our listeners can put this panel's best practices into action   VerifiedRx Listener Feedback Survey: We would love to hear from you - Please click here   Subscribe Today! Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube RSS Feed

Artificial intelligence, or, AI is on everyone's minds, and we're all still figuring out how to trust it, teach it, and use it responsibly. Today we take a deep dive into how AI is affecting the education of current and future pharmacy students. With us is Jennifer Trujillo, associate Dean for education and professor in the Department of Clinical Pharmacy at the Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences on the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus in Aurora, Colorado, and Logan Tinsen, the clinical pharmacy manager and residency program director at Benefis Hospital in Great Falls, Montana.   Guest speakers:  Jennifer Trujillo, PharmD, BCPS, CDCES, BC-ADM Associate Dean for Education Professor, Department of Clinical Pharmacy Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus Logan Tinsen, PharmD, FMPA Clinical Pharmacy Manager and Residency Program Director Benefits Hospitals   Host:   Kerry Schwarz, PharmD, MPH   Senior Clinical Manager, Evidence-Based Medicine and Outcomes  Center for Pharmacy Practice Excellence (CPPE)   Show Notes:  [01:02-03:45] Challenges with AI in pharmacy education [03:46-05:59] The AI adoption spectrum: Pitfalls of extremes between full and limited adoption [06:00-11:18] Approaches to pharmacy education in the early stages of AI [11:19-14:55] Guardrails and safeguards [14:56-16:29] Key takeaways about AI right now for pharmacy educators   VerifiedRx Listener Feedback Survey: We would love to hear from you - Please click here   Subscribe Today! Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube RSS Feed

From CAR-T therapies to viral vectors, cell and gene treatments are redefining the boundaries of pharmacy practice—but with innovation comes complexity. Host Carolyn Liptak welcomes Dr. Mark Wiencek, Principal Microbiologist with the Technical Services Group at Contec, and Dr. Amanda Frick, Senior Clinical Manager of Market Intelligence at Vizient, to break down the challenges of compounding these advanced therapies.   Listen in as they discuss real-world risk assessments, biosafety considerations, and how hospital pharmacies can safely manage these groundbreaking yet high-risk treatments.   Guest speakers:  Mark Wiencek, PhD Principal Microbiologist, Technical Services Group Contec Amanda Frick, PharmD, BCPS Senior Clinical Manager, Market Intelligence Vizient   Host:  Carolyn Liptak, MBA, RPh  Pharmacy Executive Director  Vizient   Show Notes:  [01:02-01:51] Mark shares his background and experience in microbiology [01:52-04:04] Overview of the types of cell and gene therapies (CGT) currently used in clinical practice [04:05-05:14] Which CGT therapies are most applicable to pharmacy compounding and why [05:15-10:29] Things not on the NIOSH list and the risks [10:30-12:03] Evaluating whether viral vectors can penetrate intact skin and the true occupational exposure risks [12:04-13:18] If hazards are not defined by the NIOSH list, how should these CGT hazards be classified [13:19-15:03] Determining the safest environment for compounding CGT therapies [15:04-20:14] Best practices for decontamination, disinfection, and viral vector handling [20:15-20:59] Do you need a dedicated biosafety cabinet for CGT therapies [21:00-22:55] Recommended resources for further learning   Links | Resources:   Blind and colleagues (Nationwide): Click here Wang and colleagues (Stanford): Click here CONTEC HEALTHCARE WEBINAR Using Bugs as Drugs: Compounding Viral Vectors in Cell & Gene Therapy for Hospital Pharmacies, Mark Wiencek, May 13, 2025: Click here Blind, J.E., Ghosh, S., Niese, T.D., Gardner, J.C., Stack-Simone, S., Dean, A. and Washam, M., 2024. A comprehensive literature scoping review of infection prevention and control methods for viral-mediated gene therapies. Antimicrobial Stewardship & Healthcare Epidemiology, 4(1), p.e15. Click here Deramoudt, L., Pinturaud, M., Bouquet, P., Goffard, A., Simon, N. and Odou, P., 2024. Method for the detection and quantification of viral contamination during the preparation of gene therapy drugs in a hospital pharmacy. Occupational and Environmental Medicine, 81(12), pp.615-621. Click here Korte, J., Mienert, J., Hennigs, J.K. and Körbelin, J., 2021. Inactivation of adeno-associated viral vectors by oxidant-based disinfectants. Human Gene Therapy, 32(13-14), pp.771-781. Click here (abstract only; full article available for purchase) Martino, J.G., McConnell, K., Greathouse, L., Rosario, B.D. and Jaskowiak, J.M., 2024. Cellular therapy site-preparedness: Inpatient pharmacy implementation at a large academic medical center. Journal of Oncology Pharmacy Practice, 30(8), pp.1442-1449. Click here Penzien, C., 2023. Safe handling of BioSafety drugs and live virus vaccines. Pharm Purch Prod, 20(4), p.12. Click here Petrich, J., Marchese, D., Jenkins, C., Storey, M. and Blind, J., 2020. Gene replacement therapy: a primer for the health-system pharmacist. Journal of Pharmacy Practice, 33(6), pp.846-855. Click here Wang, A., Ngo, Z., Yu, S.J. and MacDonald, E.A., 2025. Implementing standard practices in the safe handling of gene therapy and biohazardous drugs in a health-system setting. American Journal of Health-System Pharmacy, p.zxaf026. Click here   VerifiedRx Listener Feedback Survey: We would love to hear from you - Please click here   Subscribe Today! Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube RSS Feed

New data from the summer Vizient Spend Management Outlook show that in the inpatient space, high-cost drugs, especially CAR-T treatments like Yescarta and Breyanzi are major drivers of drug spend. To help offset these costs, certain therapies may qualify for additional reimbursement through the New Technology Add-On payment (NTAP), a program that supports innovations that substantially improve care for Medicare beneficiaries. Carolyn Liptak, Pharmacy Executive Director at the Vizient Center for Pharmacy Practice Excellence joins host Stacy Lauderdale, Associate Vice President of Evidence-Based Medicine and Drug Information at Vizient to cover the purpose of this add-on payment, the criteria necessary for drugs to qualify and strategies to capture its full value.   Guest Speaker: Carolyn Liptak, MBA, RPh  Pharmacy Executive Director  Vizient Center for Pharmacy Practice Excellence   Host: Stacy Lauderdale, PharmD, BCP   Associate Vice President  Vizient Center for Pharmacy Practice Excellence     Show Notes:  [01:02-03:38] Overview of NTAP and why CMS created the program [03:39-05:02] How DRG recalibration depends on broad adoption [05:03-07:17] Criteria for medications to quality for NTAP status [07:18-08:24] Who determines whether a therapy represents substantial clinical improvement [08:25-10:05] The value NTAP provides to hospitals [10:06-11:51] How to locate products that are eligible for NTAP [11:52-16:22] Best practices to ensure that NTAP payment is captured when the drug is used [16:23-17:22] Resources for additional information   Links | Resources:  Payment Updates: Preparing for 2026 - On Demand New Medical Services and New Technologies  FY 2026 IPPS Final Rule Home Page  MAC Implementation File 8 (ZIP) – FY 2026 New Technology Add-on Payment  CMS Web Pricer    VerifiedRx Listener Feedback Survey: We would love to hear from you - Please click here   Subscribe Today! Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube RSS Feed

As the Drug Supply Chain Security Act dispenser exemption period winds down, the Vizient Standards implementation team announced an important change to the Vizient Global Location Number (GLN) Management program. The data standards team will inactivate unmanaged GLNs, which will impact pharmacies and other providers who are not currently managing their Vizient assigned GLNs. Two experts leading that conversation, Carl Henshaw, Senior Director, Data Operations, Enterprise Information and Data Management, and Dawn Burtram, Lead Analyst, Standards Implementation at Vizient join host Carolyn Liptak, Pharmacy Executive Director in the Center for Pharmacy Practice Excellence at Vizient to discuss implications.   Guest speakers:  Dawn Bertram, MBA Lead Analyst Standards Implementation Vizient    Carl Henshaw Senior Director, Data Operations, Enterprise Information and Data Management Vizient   Host:  Carolyn Liptak, MBA, BS Pharm    Show Notes:  [01:08-01:59]  Dawn and Carl’s background [02:00-02:41] What exactly is a GLN and what does it mean to be self-managed [02:42-07:26]  Who creates and maintains GLNs in this data hub and the three different GLN products [07:27-08:51] How to determine who actually enumerated the GLNs [08:52-10:20] Educating and preparing providers for the DSCSA  compliance deadline [10:21-12:37] The recent decision to inactivate unmanaged GNS and why it's essential to maintaining the accuracy and reliability of GLN data [12:38-15:05] What it means to participate in our program and who's eligible to participate [15:06-17:51] Why the deadline of November 15th matters   Links | Resources: Vizient GLN Learning Center GLN Management Process Education Session (E-Learning) VGMP Application GS1 What is a GLN and How Do I Get One?  Drug Supply Chain Security Act   VerifiedRx Listener Feedback Survey: We would love to hear from you - Please click here   Subscribe Today! Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube RSS Feed

The Joint Commission’s updated accreditation manual is designed to simplify requirements, enhance clarity, and better support healthcare organizations in survey preparation. In this episode of VerifiedRx, host Carolyn Liptak is joined by Dr. Robert Campbell of the Joint Commission and Diana Scott of Vizient to unpack the most significant changes. From the shift to National Performance Goals and medication safety priorities to the latest challenges in compounding, labeling, and hazardous drug handling, the conversation highlights practical insights to help pharmacy leaders stay compliant and survey-ready.   Guest speakers: Robert Campbell, PharmD, BCSCP Sr. Director, Standards Interpretation, Accreditation Decision Management,Medication Safety Division of Accreditation and Certification Operations Joint Commission   Diana Scott, MHA, RN, CPHQ Principal, Regulatory and Accreditation Services Vizient   Host:  Carolyn Liptak, , BS Pharm, MBA   Vizient   Show Notes:  [01:16-01:51] Diana and Robert Backgrounds [01:52-02:43] Changes made to the hospital and critical access hospital manuals [02:44-03:09] Changes to the chapters themselves [03:10-04:08] National Performance Goals and elaborate on those that are relevant to medication safety and pharmacy services [04:09-05:15] The top medication management challenges [05:16-06:29] Pain management not being aligned and titration orders [06:30-06:56] Insufficient communication between pharmacists, prescribers and nurses when it comes to medication orders [06:57-08:02] Themes around labeling requirements for stored medications [08:03-08:46] Anything different in removing expired meds from patient care areas and in the pharmacy this area than previous years [08:47-10:58] Issues related to storing meds specifically per the package insert [10:59-11:55] Common issues seen inside the pharmacy regarding sterile compounding, noncompliance include hand hygiene, garbing, PPE, and cleaning and disinfecting [11:56-13:12] More specifics in those area the physical environment and facility cleanliness along with cleaning and disinfection practices [13:13-14:55] Explaination of how joint Commission defines and evaluates immediate use compounding [14:56-16:09] The minimum required elements for immediate use compounding competency [16:10-17:12] Compounding competencies besides immediate use [17:13-17:54] Expectations for environmental services training [17:55- 20:14] Concerns around hazardous drugs [20:15- 21:14] Additional information   Links | Resources: Joint Commission: THE NEW STANDARD: Accreditation 360 For Members: On-Demand webinar and CE information   VerifiedRx Listener Feedback Survey: We would love to hear from you - Please click here   Subscribe Today! Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube RSS Feed

Drug diversion threatens patient and staff safety—and preventing it requires a coordinated, multidisciplinary approach. In this episode, Dr. Ruth Igwegbe and Shealee Mitchell of JPS Health Network join host Carolyn Liptak to share how their organization transformed a fragmented diversion process into a high-functioning, collaborative program. From building trust with frontline teams to using AI software and proactive data monitoring, Ruth and Shealee highlight how culture, consistency, and communication are essential to effective diversion prevention. Tune in for actionable strategies that elevate both patient safety and professional accountability.   Guest speakers:  Dr. Ruth Igwegbe PharmD, MBA, Pharmacy medication safety officer JPS Health Network   Shealee Mitchell, BS, RN, MJur Pharmacy medication safety officer JPS Health Network   Host:  Carolyn Liptak, BS Pharm, MBA   Vizient   Show Notes:  [01:02-02:32] Ruth and Shealee Backgrounds [02:33-04:46] Background on diversion detection and prevention program at JPS [04:47-06:55] Shealee's clinical background and how it shaped how she works with teams across the organization [06:56-09:20] How the JPS diversion response team evolved [09:21-13:55] Advice to our listeners to strengthen their own diversion prevention programs [13:56-16:03] Where our listeners should go to get more information about drug diversion prevention and detection programs   VerifiedRx Listener Feedback Survey: We would love to hear from you - Please click here   Subscribe Today! Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube RSS Feed

The Vizient Summer 2025 Spend Management Outlook (SMO) provides an integrated perspective on trends, factors and future expenses providers will face across the various dimensions of healthcare. In this episode, Dr. Carina Dolan and Dr. Jeni Hayes join host Carolyn Liptak to discuss pharmacy insights from the SMO including declining drug price inflation and how autoimmune conditions have surpassed oncology in total pharmacy costs. They also touch on pediatric spend drivers, biosimilar competition, and the impact of novel therapies. Tune in to VerifiedRx for practical insights to help pharmacy leaders plan for what’s ahead.   Guest speakers:  Carina Dolan, Pharm. D., MS Pharm, BCOP   Associate Vice President, Clinical Oncology, Pharmacoeconomics and Market Insights   Vizient    Jeni Hayes, PharmD, MS Pharm, BCPS  Senior Clinical Manager, Market Intelligence  Vizient     Host:   Carolyn Liptak, BS Pharm, MBA  VerifiedRx Host    Show Notes:  [01:13-02:41]  Key pharmacy trends emerging from the Summer SMO [02:42-04:00] Current pharmacy trends [04:01-05:55]  Pharmacy spend for autoimmune conditions has exceeded that of oncology [05:56-07:36] Key takeaways [07:37-08:47] Significant trends in this latest therapeutic insights update [08:48-10:04] Challenges in gene and cell therapy space [10:05-11:33] The Therapeutic Insights webpage for pediatrics [11:34-13:41] Other reflections from the SMO [13:42-14:49]  How to locate the SMO   Links | Resources:  Vizient Spend Management Outlook Vizient Therapeutic class insights   VerifiedRx Listener Feedback Survey: We would love to hear from you - Please click here   Subscribe Today! Apple Podcasts Amazon Podcasts Spotify Android RSS Feed

Drug shortages continue to be a significant issue in the healthcare system, affecting various aspects of patient care and imposing substantial costs on hospitals and health systems. According to Vizient's 2024 drug shortages survey, U.S. hospitals are spending approximately 20 million hours annually managing these shortages, resulting in nearly $900 million in associated labor costs. The survey highlights that 74% of facilities reported exceeding their pharmacy budgets due to drug shortages, with pediatric facilities facing particularly significant financial and labor strain.   Kyle Hoelting, director of pharmacy supply assurance and stewardship and Nikola Markoski, director of pharmacy sourcing strategic solutions and analytics join host Katie Korte, vice president Vizient Reserve to delve into the results of Vizient’s 2024 drug shortage survey.   Guest speakers:  Kyle Hoelting, Pharm.D, BCPS Director, Pharmacy Supply Assurance & Stewardship Vizient Center for Pharmacy Practice Excellence   Nikola Markoski, Pharm.D, MBA Director, Pharmacy Sourcing Strategic Solutions & Analytics Vizient   Host:  Katie Kortie, Pharm.D, MHA, BCPS, BCCCP Vice President, Strategy & Program Lead, Vizient Reserve Vizient   Show Notes: [00:47-01:14] Kyle and Niko Backgrounds [01:15-05:04] What's different about this year's survey and what made 2023 a critical year in the drug shortage landscape [05:05-08:27] How data was collected, what did the mix of information tells us and the biggest insights or patterns that surfaced in the survey [08:28-12:25] What Vizient’s built or enabled that’s made a difference in this space [12:26-15:55] How best to prepare for and respond to shortages from an inventory perspective   Links | Resources:  Beyond the Shortage: The Hidden Cost of Drug Supply Chain Disruptions Drug shortage stewardship: A novel solution for an old problem Vizient Key performance indicators for the management of drug shortages Vizient Essential Medications List   VerifiedRx Listener Feedback Survey: We would love to hear from you - Please click here   Subscribe Today! Apple Podcasts Amazon Podcasts Spotify Android RSS Feed

We all know that clinician burnout negatively impacts the quality of patient care. That's why pharmacy residency accrediting bodies now emphasize resident well-being and professional sustainability as core components of residency training earlier in clinician careers. The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) Accreditation Standards for PGY1 and PGY2 Pharmacy Residencies include a formal requirement for programs to address resilience, well-being, and burnout prevention, reflecting the increasing recognition of burnout in healthcare. Joining us to talk that out are Tony Huke, Senior Pharmacy Executive Director with Vizient Pharmacy Advisory Solutions and Kendra Gage, Inpatient Clinical Pharmacist and the PGY 1 Residency Program Director at UCHealth, University of Colorado Hospital in Aurora, Colorado.   Guest speakers:  Tony Huke, PharmD, BCPS, FASHP Senior Pharmacy Executive Director Vizient Pharmacy Advisory Solutions   Kendra Gage, PharmD, BCPS Inpatient Clinical Pharmacist PGY1 Pharmacy Residency Program Director UCHealth   Host:  Kerry Schwarz, PharmD, MPH  Senior Clinical Manager, Evidence-Based Medicine and Outcomes Center for Pharmacy Practice Excellence (CPPE)   Show Notes:  [01:11-03:25] What’s new at the national level in terms of pharmacy resident resiliency and well-being [03:26-03:56] The intentionality of well-being in pharmacy residency programs [03:57-05:12] Examples from Kendra’s program [05:13-06:40]  Program expectations to address resilience [06:41-08:33]  Assessment and potential metrics of resiliency programs [08:34-11:06]  The role of pharmacy leadership and residency program directors in resiliency [11:07-12:34] Impact of resiliency programs so far   Links | Resources: Accreditation Standards for PGY1 and PGY2 Pharmacy Residencies   Subscribe Today! Apple Podcasts Amazon Podcasts Spotify Android RSS Feed

Information on COVID vaccines is moving fast. On May 27th, HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced that COVID vaccines will no longer be universally recommended for healthy children or healthy pregnant women. That's a big shift, and understandably, it's raised a lot of questions. We're going to cut through the noise and take a look at where things really stand, who's getting vaccinated, how current guidance is evolving, and what this means for both children and adults as we look ahead to the next respiratory season.  Joining us to help sort it all out is Dr. John Schoen, Senior Clinical Manager of Drug Information at Vizient.   Guest speakers:  John Schoen, PharmD, BCPS  Senior Clinical Manager of Drug Information   Vizient Center for Pharmacy Practice Excellence    Host:  Stacy Lauderdale, PharmD, BCPS  Associate Vice President Vizient Center for Pharmacy Practice Excellence    Show Notes:  [01:38-05:32] What changed in the recent CDC update for healthy children [05:33-09:32] Discussion of COVID-19 outcomes and vaccination in children [09:33-11:47] Specific risk factors for pediatric patients [11:48-12:47] Is the US an outlier for not universally recommending the COVID-19 vaccine for healthy children and making no recommendation in healthy pregnant women? [12:48-14:03] The FDA’s proposed regulatory framework for COVID-19 vaccine approval [14:04-15:18] FDA’s approach to implementing revised requirements for randomized controlled trials [15:19-16:57] Key discussion points from the May meeting of the Vaccines and Related Biological Products Advisory Committee [17:00-18:27] Topics requiring further clarification about COVID-19 vaccine   Links | Resources: Vizient resources: Minute Market Insight: Potential ACIP COVID-19 recommendation changes April 2025: https://www.vizientinc.com/download?342668 Minute Market Insight: May 2025 COVID-19 vaccine recommendation and policy updates: https://www.vizientinc.com/download?352336 Additional resources: FDA perspective piece published in NEJM: https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMsb2506929 ACIP meeting information: https://www.cdc.gov/acip/meetings/index.html CDC childhood immunization schedule: https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/hcp/imz-schedules/child-adolescent-age.html CDC adult immunization schedule by medical condition: https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/hcp/imz-schedules/adult-medical-condition.html CDC RESP-NET: https://www.cdc.gov/resp-net/dashboard/ WHO COVID-19 dashboard: https://data.who.int/dashboards/covid19/deaths MMWR - COVID-19–Associated Hospitalizations and Maternal Vaccination Among Infants Aged <6 Months: https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/73/wr/mm7338a1.htm?utm_source=chatgpt.com MMWR – MIS-C, US 2023: https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/73/wr/mm7310a2.htm   Subscribe Today! Apple Podcasts Amazon Podcasts Spotify Android RSS Feed

Pharmacy reverse distributors play a key role in making pharmaceutical returns more efficient, helping with processing, financial settlements and delivering helpful data. They're in a unique spot to support efforts to prevent diversion, speed up inventory returns, and even contribute to sustainability goals. Kyle Hoelting, director of pharmacy supply assurance and stewardship at Vizient, along with Paige Ivey, senior national accounts director, and Houston Blankinship, senior director of customer experience for healthcare product operations at Inmar Intelligence join host Carolyn Liptak, pharmacy executive director in Vizient Center for Pharmacy Practice Excellence and host for today's conversation.   Guest speakers:  Kyle Hoelting, Pharm.D, BCPS  Director, Pharmacy Supply Assurance & Stewardship Vizient Center for Pharmacy Practice Excellence   Paige Ivey Senior National Accounts Director Inmar Intelligence   Houston Blankenship Senior Director of Customer Experience for Healthcare Product Operations Inmar Intelligence   Host:  Carolyn Liptak, MBA, RPh  Pharmacy Executive Director  Vizient   Show Notes:  [01:05-03:33] Background for Kyle, Paige, Houston [03:34-05:10] How the pharmaceutical supply chain works and how everything is interconnected [05:10-09:32] How reverse distribution specifically supports pharmacy operations [09:33-11:16] How data that comes from reverse distribution can offer some great insights for pharmacy leaders [11:58-13:57] How data that comes from reverse distribution can give insight to drug shortages [13:58-16:42] Inmar's role with insight into drug shortages [16:43-21:05] Go-to resources for those wanting to explore more on stewardship and protective purchases   Links | Resources: Drug shortage stewardship: A novel solution for an old problem Vizient Essential Medications List Vizient Key performance indicators for the management of drug shortages   Subscribe Today! Apple Podcasts Amazon Podcasts Spotify Android RSS Feed

Recently, there has been a lot of interest generated by a new FDA approval. Suzetrigine (Journavx) was recently approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for the management of pain. Although there is a lot of excitement about having a new tool in the toolbox, there are certain limitations that are important to consider. In this episode of Verified Rx, Dave Peterson, pharmacist and drug information specialist for the University of Utah Health joins us to discuss this exciting new non opioid medication.   Guest speaker:  Dave Peterson, PharmD, BCPS Drug Information Specialist University of Utah Drug Information Service   Host:  Kerry Schwarz, PharmD, MPH Senior Clinical Manager, Evidence-Based Medicine and Outcomes Center for Pharmacy Practice Excellence (CPPE)   Show Notes:  [00:54-02:24] Information about Suzetrigine [02:25-04:06] What distinguishes suzetrigine from other non-opioid analgesics [04:07-05:09] What suzetrigine is indicated for [05:10-06:14] How suzetrigine is being studied [06:15-08:40] Surgical models and the endpoints that we commonly see in these studies [08:41-10:25] Making sense of discordant study results [10:26-12:02] Moving beyond the evidence to real world utilization of suzetrigine [12:03-14:03] How cost factors into real-world utilization [14:04-16:21] What Dave is keeping his eye on in terms of clinical concerns [16:22-17:28] What Dave is excited about with the advent of suzetrigine   Links | Resources: No pain, much gain?   Subscribe Today! Apple Podcasts Amazon Podcasts Spotify Android RSS Feed

Traditional drug spending in the U.S. has surpassed specialty drug spending, and the primary force behind this trend is GLP-1 receptor agonists. These incretin-based therapies are transforming both the clinical and economic landscapes, from diabetes to obesity. In this episode of the Center for Pharmacy Practice Excellence’s VerifiedRx podcast, host Tori Richie, Senior Consulting Director of Intelligence at Sg2 is joined by Vizient colleagues Stacy Lauderdale, AVP of Evidence-Based Medicine, Heather Pace, Senior Clinical Manager of Ambulatory Care, and Emily Fitt, Intelligence Consultant at Sg2. They delve into a comprehensive discussion on GLP-1s, covering topics from telehealth services and patient management strategies to the unique attributes that set these therapies apart. Grab your coffee and get comfortable. This isn’t just a conversation; it’s a front-row seat to how GLP-1s are reshaping the future of obesity management.   Guest speakers:  Stacy Lauderdale, Pharm.D, BCPS Associate Vice President Vizient Center for Pharmacy Practice Excellence VerifiedRx Host   Heather Pace, Pharm.D Sr. Clinical Manager of Ambulatory Care, Vizient Center for Pharmacy Practice Excellence   Emily Fitt, MHA, MPH Consultant Sg2   Host:  Tori Richie Senior Consulting Director, Intelligence Sg2 Sg2 Perspectives Host   Show Notes:  [02:24-04:50] How GLP-1 medications differ from traditional treatments and shift from use in diabetes to obesity management [04:51-05:54] The most common side effects of GLP-1 therapies and how clinicians can effectively manage patients [05:55-08:49] Treatment teams for obesity management and the role of the pharmacist in the management of GLP-1 medications [08:50-10:51] Challenges providers face integrating GLP-1 medications into practice [10:16-13:20] Quality or outcome concerns with individuals who receive GLP-1 medications from telehealth providers [13:21-15:01] Trends shaping this landscape [15:02-21:14] Best practices that providers should deploy   Subscribe Today! Apple Podcasts Amazon Podcasts Spotify Android RSS Feed

Widespread vaccination efforts declared measles eliminated in the United States in 2000. However, recent outbreaks have reignited public health concerns. The country is experiencing a growing number of measles cases with clusters reported in several states. A highly contagious virus, measles, poses serious risks, especially to unvaccinated individuals and vulnerable patient populations. Dr. John Schoen, Senior Clinical Manager of Drug Information at the Vizient Center for Pharmacy Practice Excellence, discusses the current outbreak, measles vaccine strategies, and answers questions about prevention and public health impact with Stacy Lauderdale, Associate Vice President at the Vizient Center for Pharmacy Practice Excellence and your VerifiedRx program host.   Guest speakers:  John Schoen, Pharm.D, BCPS Senior Clinical Manager of Drug Information Vizient Center for Pharmacy Practice Excellence   Host:  Stacy Lauderdale, Pharm.D, BCPS Associate Vice President Vizient Center for Pharmacy Practice Excellence   Show Notes:  [01:12-03:30] Are we in an unprecedented situation in the United States? [03:31-05:49] A brief overview about measles [05:50-08:03] Overview of the MMR vaccine [08:04-10:15] MMR vaccination rate in the United States [10:16-12:27] Is there a link between autism and MMR vaccine [12:28-14:47] Does the MMR vaccine cause measles? [14:48-18:04] 1 vs. 2 doses of the MMR vaccine in adults [18:05-21:25] Measles postexposure prophylaxis [21:26-23:40] Vitamin A and measles   Links | Resources:  Vizient Resources Evidence Bites: 2025 Measles Outbreak Resources Measles cases and outbreaks: https://www.cdc.gov/measles/data-research/index.html 2013 MMWR measles recommendations: https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/rr6204a1.htm#Tab3 CDC measles vaccine recommendations: https://www.cdc.gov/measles/hcp/vaccine-considerations/index.html#cdc_generic_section_5-post-exposure-prophylaxis-for-measles HAN alert 2025 outbreak: https://www.cdc.gov/han/2025/han00522.html American Academy of Pediatrics recommendations: https://publications.aap.org/redbook/book/755/chapter/14079321/Measles?autologincheck=redirected Information about the MMR vaccines: https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/vpd/mmr/hcp/about.htm   Subscribe Today! Apple Podcasts Amazon Podcasts Spotify Android RSS Feed