Challenges for Pharmacy in 2024

Last fall I joined Inmar Intelligence because of the great opportunity to work with an organization that is a healthcare, technology and media company uniquely positioned to help stakeholders successfully navigate the healthcare ecosystem. With the NACDS Annual Meeting drawing near, I’m compelled to share the key market forces that are informing Inmar’s strategy going forward. Our priorities will continue to evolve and I am excited to gain more insights from our customers and partners during NACDS Annual.

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A call for disruption and innovation in retail Rx

In preparing for the National Association of Chain Drug Stores Annual Meeting this year, I find myself thinking about the myriad opportunities reshaping retail pharmacy, including overcoming declining margins, winning expansion of pharmacist provider status, and leaning into consumer needs and value-based care. As I do so, I keep coming back to the guiding principle that we have been entrusted by our investors to create value by delivering patient safety, access and affordability in health care.

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Understanding DSCSA: Insights for All Dispensers

The article discusses how the DSCSA impacts medication dispensers, emphasizing compliance to protect patient safety and maintain supply chain integrity. It covers pharmaceutical crime, counterfeit drug risks, key DSCSA measures like product serialization, and stresses technology's role in ensuring authenticity. Compliance with regulations is crucial for a secure healthcare environment.

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DIR reform in 2024: One step forward, two steps back

The article delves into the advancements and obstacles facing Direct and Indirect Remuneration (DIR) reform in 2024 within the pharmacy sector. It outlines the move from retroactive to upfront DIR fees, the financial pressures on pharmacies, and initiatives to broaden the scope of pharmacy services. Despite certain improvements like clawback elimination, the transition has introduced cash flow difficulties and decreased transparency. The article underscores the significance of comprehending and managing these reforms to bolster pharmacy viability and promote value-based care endeavors.

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Successful Returns Management Starts With An Effective Returns Policy

Establishing a clear and consistent returns policy is an absolute requirement for any drug- or device-maker committed to successfully mitigating the financial liability attached to product flowing back through the supply chain.

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The Push for Healthcare Price Transparency: Will Pharmacies See a Benefit?

By Jason Murry, Senior Director, Healthcare Sales: Recent passage of the Lower Costs, More Transparency (LCMT) Act in a bipartisan vote by the U.S. House of Representatives is being heralded by the bill’s sponsors as “landmark legislation,” but is it really? The bill -- which is a long way from becoming law -- is focused on the very politically popular issue of lowering prescription drug prices for consumers. But where is the benefit for pharmacies?  

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Tips For Payer Contract Negotiation, Reconciliation and Recoupment

To take the sting out of the difficult process of contracting, pharmacy leaders need to have a solid understanding of best practices when working with payers.

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How To Master Hazardous Rx Returns Rules For Every State

Did you know 23 states have hazardous waste management rules that differ from federal rules? Did you know 35 states have adopted Subpart P?  As if this weren’t complicated enough, on both levels — federal and state — these regulations are constantly changing. Keeping up is like constantly trying to hit a moving target, but unfortunately, it’s not optional.

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Get On Track With DSCSA Requirements

For pharmacies nationwide, this November brings more than just the holidays. It brings full enactment of the Drug Supply Chain Security Act (DSCSA). And though the industry has spent the last 10 years preparing, with the deadline fast approaching, there’s been an uptick in urgency.  Dispensers need to understand their responsibilities.

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