Killian Meara

1 week ago | drugtopics.com | Killian Meara

The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) has brought significant changes to the healthcare landscape, with important implications for independent pharmacies across the United States. While the legislation aims to lower prescription drug costs for patients, it also introduces reimbursement shifts, administrative requirements and new pricing regulations. As the provisions of the IRA continue to roll out, understanding them will be critical for independent pharmacies.

1 week ago | drugtopics.com | Killian Meara |Mark P. Garofoli

Pharmacists today need more than technical skills—they must develop emotional intelligence, preparedness, and professional awareness, especially when managing controlled substances. Planning ahead is essential for handling unexpected challenges.

1 week ago | drugtopics.com | Killian Meara |B. Douglas Hoey

Despite repeated promises, Congress has continued to delay pharmacy benefit manager (PBM) reform, leaving independent pharmacies in crisis. With a new administration in the White House that has signaled support for PBM reform, there is renewed hope for change. However, Douglas Hoey, RPh, MBA, CEO of the National Community Pharmacists Association (NCPA), warns that while there is optimism, patience is wearing thin—the time for meaningful reform is now.

1 week ago | drugtopics.com | Killian Meara

Ron Friedman grew up working in his father’s independent pharmacy in Virginia with his two older brothers, which he says was a formidable part of his education. Friedman’s father ran the pharmacy for over 30 years, dispensing medication to patients from behind the counter largely unbothered by the state’s board of pharmacy or any federal agencies. Friedman said he likes to refer to this period—from roughly the 1960s to the 1980s—as the golden age of pharmacy.

1 week ago | drugtopics.com | Killian Meara |B. Douglas Hoey

The Medicare Drug Price Negotiation Program under the Inflation Reduction Act allows the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to negotiate medication prices directly with drug companies. The program aims to improve access to some of the most expensive brand-name drugs in Medicare Part B and Part D. Although the intention of the program is undoubtedly good, unintended consequences have been discovered and could negatively impact pharmacies across the country.