Pharmacy Innovators Podcast

Episode

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  Ask the Innovators: Stop Looking in the Rearview Mirror of Specialty Pharmacy 31.07.2026 29mnt

  Specialty pharmacy is evolving faster than ever, making it increasingly difficult for health systems to protect margins and drive sustainable growth using historical reports alone. In this episode, host Jim Jorgenson is joined by Joe Cesarz, Chief Client Success Officer at Visante, and Angie Amado, Senior Vice President, Client Services at Visante, to discuss why health systems can no longer manage specialty pharmacy by looking in the rearview mirror. Joe and Angie explore the financial and operational trends reshaping specialty pharmacy, the leading indicators organizations should be monitoring, and how predictive analytics can help leaders identify risks before they impact performance. They also discuss how health systems can assess market opportunity and build a proactive framework to support long-term specialty pharmacy success.
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  Mid-Year Check-In: The Top 10 Forces Shaping Health System Pharmacy 07.07.2026 47mnt

  Halfway through 2026, one trend has become impossible to ignore: health systems are beginning to split into two very different camps. Some are playing defense—focused on reimbursement pressures, Medicaid shifts, workforce challenges, and tightening margins. Others are taking an opportunistic approach, using these same market forces to expand specialty pharmacy, strengthen infusion services, optimize 340B, and position pharmacy as a strategic growth engine. In this mid-year check-in, host Jim Jorgenson is joined by Alex Varkey, Vice President of Client Success, and Dave Hager, Senior Vice President of Client Success at Visante, to revisit Visante's Top 10 Forces Shaping Health System Pharmacy in 2026 and discuss what they're seeing across the country. The message is clear: organizations making bold, strategic decisions today are positioning themselves for long-term success. In today's market, victory favors the brave—and with the right strategy and the right partner, today's challenges can become tomorrow's competitive advantage.
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  Pharmacy Leadership in Action: Perspectives from Rush and Orlando Health 26.05.2026 25mnt

  Health system pharmacy is under more pressure — and expected to deliver more value — than ever before. In this episode, host Jim Jorgenson is joined by Dr. Kate Schaafsma, Vice President and Chief Pharmacy Officer at Rush University Health System, and Dr. Jeff Oliver, Vice President and Chief Pharmacy Officer at Orlando Health, to discuss the challenges and opportunities shaping modern health system pharmacy.   Kate and Jeff share how strong partnerships across their health systems are positioning pharmacy as a strategic enterprise asset while improving patient care and operational performance. From workforce pressures and specialty pharmacy growth to technology and site of care strategy, this conversation explores how health systems can build more resilient, forward-thinking pharmacy operations.
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  Building a Strategic Pharmacy Supply Chain: Lessons from IU Health 16.04.2026 47mnt

  What does it take to turn pharmacy into a true enterprise asset? In this episode, host Jim Jorgenson is joined by Derek Imars, Executive Director of Pharmacy Supply Chain at IU Health, and Steve Rough, Chairman at Visante, to explore how pharmacy supply chain is evolving—from managing drug shortages to enabling growth in infusion and specialty services—through more connected, end-to-end strategies from purchase to patient. They share perspectives on operating models, centralized infrastructure, and the financial and regulatory complexity shaping pharmacy today. From 340B and DSCSA to site of care strategy and value capture, this conversation highlights where organizations are still leaving value on the table—and how to build a more resilient, strategic supply chain.
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  Pharmacy Leadership, Innovation, and 340B at Penn State Health 20.03.2026 19mnt

  In this episode of Innovators Podcast, host Jim Jorgenson speaks with Dr. Sam Wetherill, VP and Chief Pharmacy Officer at Penn State Health, about his journey from Penn State pharmacy student to health system leader and how his 22 years of Army service shaped his leadership approach. They also discuss Penn State Health’s strategic priorities, the evolving role of pharmacy within health systems, and the importance of the 340B program in supporting patient care and ambulatory initiatives.
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  Top 10 Forces Shaping Pharmacy in 2026 26.02.2026 28mnt

  In this episode, Visante CEO Amy Amick and Chairman Steve Rough join host Jim Jorgenson to spotlight three powerful forces from Visante’s Top 10 Forces Shaping Pharmacy in 2026 — and why pharmacy is rapidly emerging as a strategic growth platform for health systems. This conversation is designed for both pharmacy and health system leaders who are responsible for margin, strategy, and overall enterprise performance. From elevating pharmacy from cost center to growth engine, to capturing ambulatory opportunity and reducing prescription leakage, to unlocking the next wave of untapped value, this episode challenges leaders to rethink pharmacy as a business unit with measurable impact. 🔗 Read the full Top 10 Forces Shaping Pharmacy in 2026
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  340B Rebate Readiness: What Covered Entities Need to Know Now 17.12.2025 28mnt

  As the 340B Rebate Model Pilot approaches, hospitals and health systems are preparing for one of the most significant shifts the program has faced in years. In this episode, Jim Jorgensen is joined by Kristin Fox-Smith, Managing Director, and Jerame Hill, Chief Strategy Officer at Visante, to break down what the new rebate model means for covered entities.   This conversation is especially important for hospital executives as the rebate model directly impacts cash flow, staffing needs, operational risk, and financial planning. The group discusses the real-world implications of HRSA’s guidance, including increased data and reconciliation complexity, ongoing uncertainty as January 1 approaches, and the decisions leaders may soon face. Listeners will also hear practical insight on how to prepare now to reduce risk and protect organizational performance.
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  Infusion Innovation: Connecting Care Delivery to Enterprise Strategy 28.11.2025 27mnt

  In this episode of Pharmacy Innovators, host Jim Jorgenson sits down with Jim Jacobsohn, Chief Growth Officer at Visante, and Joelle Hall, Director of Infusion Strategy, to explore how infusion services are becoming a strategic lever for hospitals and health systems. The conversation highlights how shifting care delivery models, increasing consumer expectations, payer pressures, and new market disruptors are reshaping infusion strategy—requiring health systems to rethink how and where care is delivered across hospital outpatient, AIS, and home infusion settings. The guests discuss why pharmacy is uniquely positioned to lead this transformation and how connecting infusion services to enterprise strategy can drive improved access, financial sustainability, and better patient and provider experiences. They outline critical success components—including footprint design, payer contracting, revenue cycle alignment, analytics, and patient experience—and offer insights on partnership models and return-on-investment expectations. Whether you're a CPO, CSO, CFO, or health system strategist, this episode provides a practical and forward-looking view of the infusion landscape and how to compete in a rapidly evolving market.
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  Sustaining Care Through 340B: Insights from Benefis Health System 24.09.2025 32mnt

  In this episode, Jamie Leonard shares her journey from clinical pharmacist to Director of Pharmacy at Benefis Health System in Great Falls, Montana. She oversees pharmacy operations across the continuum of care, including acute care, cancer and infusion centers, long-term care, critical access hospitals, and Benefis’ 340B program. Jamie discusses the unique challenges of serving a largely rural and government-payer-heavy population, while emphasizing Benefis’ strong commitment to community health, education, and work-life balance. She highlights key pharmacy initiatives such as expanding specialty and retail pharmacy, growing a Meds-to-Beds program, and supporting patients with timely medication access—critical in a state where patients often travel long distances.
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  Ask the Innovators: Navigating the Shifting 340B Landscape 21.08.2025 26mnt

  In this episode of Ask the Innovators, Jim Jorgenson sits down with Visante’s Angela De Ianni, Managing Director, and Nivedha Poondi, Consultant, to unpack the rapid changes happening across the 340B program. From the transition to a rebate model to the ongoing challenges around DSH eligibility, our guests break down what these shifts mean for covered entities and share practical advice on how hospitals and health systems can prepare, adapt, and stay resilient. Tune in to hear expert insights on the future of 340B—and the strategies organizations can use to remain grounded and strategic in the face of uncertainty.
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  Leading with Purpose: Pharmacy Innovation at Community Health Network with Dr. Dawn Moore 16.07.2025 32mnt

  In this episode of Pharmacy Innovators, host Jim Jorgenson sits down with longtime friend and colleague Dr. Dawn Moore, Vice President of Pharmacy at Community Health Network in Indiana. With a career grounded in both strategy and service, Dawn shares her journey through health system leadership, her approach to ambulatory pharmacy growth, and the ways she's navigated competitive pressures in specialty and infusion care. The conversation dives into how Community Health Network is addressing system-wide priorities, the importance of partnering strategically in pharmacy services, and how strong leadership can drive sustainable outcomes. Dawn also reflects on her run for the ASHP Board of Directors, her advocacy for women in pharmacy leadership, and how she balances a demanding career with raising a family. Whether you're a pharmacy leader, health system executive, or aspiring professional, this episode is packed with practical insights, inspiration, and strategic takeaways.
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  Maximizing Value in the Pharmacy Revenue Cycle 18.06.2025 43mnt

  In this episode of The Innovators Podcast, host Jim Jorgenson is joined by pharmacy revenue cycle experts Maxie Friemel and Tim Miller to explore the often underestimated, and increasingly critical, world of pharmacy finances. The conversation goes well beyond billing, diving into key issues such as prior authorizations, denials, biosimilar adoption, charge structures, and payer audits. For hospital and health system leaders, the pharmacy revenue cycle presents both significant risk and opportunity. As specialty drug costs rise and payer scrutiny intensifies, understanding pharmacy’s role in financial performance is more important than ever. Maxie and Tim share practical insights to help leaders foster collaboration across pharmacy, finance, compliance, and IT, improve charge capture, and drive clean claims. Packed with actionable strategies and big-picture thinking, this is a must-listen episode for any hospital leader focused on strengthening financial sustainability and operational alignment.
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  A New Chapter: Alex Varkey on Leadership, Change & the Future of Pharmacy 21.05.2025 34mnt

  In this episode, host Jim Jorgenson sits down with returning guest Dr. Alex Varkey to discuss big changes—both personal and professional. Since his last appearance, Alex has completed his term as President of the American Pharmacists Association (APhA) and made a major career move, leaving a successful role in health-system leadership to join Visante. Alex shares what motivated his transition, what it’s been like stepping into the consulting world, and what lessons he’s bringing with him from his time at APhA. He also offers thoughtful advice for professionals considering a change and discusses the trends he believes will shape the next five years in pharmacy. From workforce dynamics to innovation in care delivery, this conversation is packed with leadership insight and forward-thinking perspectives for anyone invested in the future of pharmacy.
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  Advancing 340B: Strategic Perspectives in a Changing Landscape 23.04.2025 33mnt

  In this episode of the Pharmacy Innovators Podcast, host Jim Jorgenson is joined by two powerhouse voices in the 340B space: Kristin Fox Smith, Visante’s own 340B expert, and Ted Slafsky, Publisher & CEO of the 340B Report. Together, they dive into the latest political and regulatory shifts shaking the 340B landscape — from new Congressional leadership and pending legislation to the major reorganization of HHS and HRSA. The episode also explores Medicaid trends, judicial developments, contract pharmacy access, and the broader political forces shaping healthcare access for vulnerable populations. Whether you’re a healthcare leader, policymaker, or 340B stakeholder, this episode offers timely and valuable insights into the evolving landscape of the program. 340B Report website: https://340breport.com/ Subscribe now using coupon code VISANTE25
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  Pharmacist Burnout and Beyond: What the Data Tells Us 19.03.2025 37mnt

  In this episode, host Jim Jorgenson talks with Dr. Brianne Bakken, PharmD, MHA, Associate Professor at The University of Iowa College of Nursing, about the National Pharmacist Workforce Study (NPWS) and its impact on pharmacy. They explore key findings on burnout, job satisfaction, and staffing shortages, as well as how AI, telepharmacy, and policy changes are reshaping the profession. Dr. Bakken discusses her award-winning 2019 paper on discrimination and harassment in pharmacy and offers a preview of the 2024 NPWS. She also highlights strategies like leadership training, inclusion initiatives, and resilience programs that are helping pharmacies adapt and thrive.  Link to NPWS final reports: https://www.aacp.org/article/national-pharmacist-workforce-studies  NPWS is funded by the Pharmacy Workforce Center
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  Top Opportunities for Healthcare Executives in 2025 19.02.2025 39mnt

  In this episode of the Pharmacy Innovators Podcast, Visante CEO Steve Rough and President Phil Brummond dive into Visante’s Top Ten Issues Facing Health System Pharmacy in 2025. This insightful discussion covers key topics such as alternative payment models, revenue cycle optimization, centralized medication access, and more—critical areas shaping the future of pharmacy practice. Join them as they explore how to advocate for essential resources, the expanding role of pharmacy services in health system strategy, and major healthcare marketplace changes that could impact your organization. Don’t miss this episode for expert insights and strategies to enhance financial and operational performance in 2025 and beyond! 
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  Ask the Innovators: Your Questions on the 340B Program 18.01.2025 22mnt

  In this episode, we address audience-submitted questions about the 340B Program with Kristin Fox Smith and Sean Hall, two leading experts from Visante. Topics range from potential legislative changes and manufacturer rebate models to operational challenges and future program expectations. Whether you’re a healthcare professional or simply curious about the 340B Program, this episode offers valuable insights into the evolving landscape of this critical initiative.
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  Key Takeaways from ASHP Midyear: Insights with Dave Hager and Lynn Thoma 18.12.2024 34mnt

  In this episode, we’re joined by Dave Hager, Managing Director at Visante, and Lynn Thoma, Senior Director at Visante, as they share their key takeaways from the ASHP Midyear Conference. Dave and Lynn dive into the major themes shaping pharmacy practice, highlight perspectives that challenged or inspired them, and discuss how the conference content aligns with the current trends and challenges facing the industry. Don’t miss this insightful conversation as they break down the conference highlights and share their expert analysis!
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  Systemness in Action: How McLeod Health Pharmacy Elevates Organizational Excellence 20.11.2024 30mnt

  In this episode, host Jim Jorgenson welcomes Dr. Jenna Swindler, Vice President of Pharmacy Services at McLeod Health System in South Carolina. Dr. Swindler shares her career journey and provides an overview of McLeod Health’s pharmacy operations. The conversation dives into the critical role of "systemness" in multi-hospital organizations, highlighting how McLeod defines and implements this concept, particularly in pharmacy practices. Dr. Swindler discusses McLeod’s comprehensive pharmacy strategy, its alignment with broader organizational goals, and its impact on patient outcomes and operational efficiency. She elaborates on fostering consistency across locations, collaborating with other departments, and ensuring medication access for underserved populations. The episode also explores how pharmacy services at McLeod support patients beyond dispensing medications, enhancing care from hospital admission to post-discharge.   Tune in for insights on advancing pharmacy’s role in achieving health system excellence and improving patient care!
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  Navigating Pediatric Pharmacy: Challenges and Innovations with Dr. Kendrea Jones 16.10.2024 25mnt

  In this episode, we are thrilled to welcome Dr. Kendrea Jones, Director of Pharmacy at Arkansas Children’s Hospital, to explore the unique challenges and opportunities in pediatric pharmacy. Dr. Jones shares her career journey, insights into the specialized pharmacy services at Arkansas Children’s, and how the hospital is tackling workforce shortages, high-cost therapies, and drug shortages. We also dive into the development of a specialty pharmacy to serve rural populations, innovations in prior authorization processes, revenue cycle management, and Arkansas's leadership in pharmacy advocacy, particularly regarding PBMs and 340b protections. Don’t miss this engaging conversation with one of the leading voices in pediatric pharmacy!