Inside the AMC Growth Surge

In this episode of Edge Perspectives, host Trevor DaRin is joined by Justin Cassidy, PhD, Strategy Intelligence expert at Vizient, to explore how academic medical centers are positioning themselves for strategic growth. Drawing on Vizient's latest forecasting, Justin breaks down the acuity-based volume shifts reshaping AMC strategy — and why capacity management, smart backfill decisions, and access enablement are the critical levers for high-performing systems.
 
Note to our listeners: Sg2 Perspectives was recently renamed Edge Perspectives. Same great hosts, same great content, expanding to cover data-driven market intelligence, quality and operations insights from health care provider leaders. There is no action needed for you to keep this podcast in your subscriptions and feeds. But you will see a new logo and a new name. We are always excited to get ideas and feedback from our listeners. Contact the hosts with your comments or episode ideas or visit The Leading Edge by Vizient on LinkedIn.

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, MSDirector of PharmacyPharmaceutical Supply Chain ManagementUniversity of Rochester Medical Center
 
Host: 
Dr. Kerry Schwarz, Pharm.D., MPHSenior Clinical Manager, Evidence-Based Medicine and OutcomesVizient 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&amp;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.

 
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Transforming Supply Chain with AI

Artificial intelligence is transforming healthcare operations by helping organizations improve efficiency and reduce administrative burden. Dr. Dustin McLemore, Senior Program Manager at Providence, joins host Shannon Hale to discuss how Providence has partnered with frontline caregivers to develop an AI powered supply chain solution that gives valuable time back to patient care while keeping clinicians at the center of the process.
 
Guest Speaker: Dustin D. McLemore, EdD, PMP®Senior Program Manager, Logistics OperationsProvidence Supply Chain Organization (SCO)
 
Host: Shannon Hale, MHA, RN, CPHQ Senior Program Director, Performance Improvement Programs Vizient 
 
Show Notes: 
[00:07] Artificial intelligence in healthcare supply chain operations
[00:38] Opportunities to reduce administrative burden for caregivers
[02:43] Why Providence built its own AI solution
[04:52] Built by caregivers, for caregivers
[07:53] Keeping frontline caregivers involved after implementation of AI
[08:46] Financial impact and returning time to patient care
[11:26] Finding the right balance between AI and human oversight
[13:27] Earning caregiver trust through data and feedback
[15:59] Lessons for healthcare leaders adopting AI
 
Links | Resources: Contacting Knowledge on the Go: picollaboratives@vizientinc.com 
 
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Payment Updates Driving Healthcare Change

In this episode of Edge Perspectives, host Jayme Zage, PhD, is joined by Strategy Intelligence experts Janelle Kwan, Associate Principal; Mahaya Walker, Senior Director; and Jen Goff, Intelligence Director, to discuss the latest payment updates shaping healthcare. They explore what's accelerating the shift to alternative payment models, how trends differ across payer segments, and what health systems can do now to prepare for the future of value-based care.
 
Note to our listeners: Sg2 Perspectives was recently renamed Edge Perspectives. Same great hosts, same great content, expanding to cover data-driven market intelligence, quality and operations insights from health care provider leaders. There is no action needed for you to keep this podcast in your subscriptions and feeds. But you will see a new logo and a new name. We are always excited to get ideas and feedback from our listeners. Contact the hosts with your comments or episode ideas or visit The Leading Edge by Vizient on LinkedIn.
 

Inside the 2026 Impact of Change® Forecast

In this episode of Edge Perspectives (that’s right new name, new logo, new brand!), host Trevor DaRin is joined by Strategy Intelligence experts Tori Richie, Associate Principal, and Karyl Kopaskie, PhD, Principal, to unpack the latest Impact of Change® Forecast and the forces shaping healthcare demand over the next decade. Together, they explore the shift from inpatient to ambulatory care, the growing challenges of payer mix deterioration, and how AI, pharmaceutical innovation, and changing patient behaviors are reshaping the future of healthcare delivery.
 
Note to our listeners: Sg2 Perspectives was recently renamed Edge Perspectives. Same great hosts, same great content, expanding to cover data-driven market intelligence, quality and operations insights from health care provider leaders. There is no action needed for you to keep this podcast in your subscriptions and feeds. But you will see a new logo and a new name. We are always excited to get ideas and feedback from our listeners. Contact the hosts with your comments or episode ideas or visit The Leading Edge by Vizient on LinkedIn.
 

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, FASHPVP, Pharmacy ServicesMedstar Health
Cedric Terrell, PharmD, MHASVP &amp; Chief Pharmacy Officer Pharmacy Enterprise ServicesCommonSpirit Health
 
Host:  Carolyn Liptak, MBA, BS PharmPharmacy Executive Director, Regulatory ComplianceVizient 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.

 
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Roadmap to Top Performance

What separates top performing health systems from their peers? For the past two decades, Vizient has explored that question through research focused on leadership, culture, and practices that drive organizational performance. Julie Cerese, Group Senior Vice President of Performance Management and National Networks at Vizient, joins host Shannon Hale to discuss how this work has evolved and why it continues to shape healthcare organizations today. 
 Guest Speaker:  Julie Cerese RN, MSN, PhD Senior Vice President Member Networks and Performance Management Programs Vizient  
 Host: Shannon Hale, MHA, RN, CPHQ Senior Program Director, Performance Improvement Programs Vizient 
 
Show Notes:  
 [00:07] Introduction and the origins of the Roadmap to Top Performance research 
[01:03] Healthcare leaders asked what separates top performing organizations from their peers 
[03:01] Building the Quality and Accountability ranking using STEAP principles 
[04:41] The blinded research process that uncovered clear differences between top and middle performers 
[05:27] One specific healthcare system applied the research findings to achieve sustained excellence 
[07:25] Researchers observations during site visits to top performing organizations 
[09:01] Leadership, culture, and why visible executives create accountability throughout an organization 
[11:49] Vizient's Roadmap to Top Performance benchmarking survey 
[15:16] Participating organizations are learning from the survey 
[17:01] Reflecting on twenty years of research and its continued impact on healthcare performance 
 
Links | Resources: Contacting Knowledge on the Go: picollaboratives@vizientinc.com 
 
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Signals and Noise in Healthcare Industry News

In this episode of Sg2 Perspectives, host Trevor DaRin is joined by Sg2 experts Brian Esser and Jayme Zage, PhD, for a discussion of recent health care headlines and what they may signal for health systems. The conversation explores affordability and AI, hospital rankings, Medicare Advantage tensions, workforce pressures, and GoodRx’s subscription strategy. Together, they separate signal from noise and highlight how leaders can think about technology, payer dynamics, labor supply and consumer engagement in the years ahead.
 
We are always excited to get ideas and feedback from our listeners. You can reach us at sg2perspectives@sg2.com, or visit the Sg2 company page on LinkedIn.

Leading Quality Improvement

Process improvement plays a critical role in healthcare by helping organizations deliver safer, efficient and more reliable care. Our host Shannon Hale welcomes Dr. Josee Gill, Director of Quality for the Bellin Region at Emplify Health, to discuss what it takes to build a culture of continuous improvement. Drawing on years of leadership experience, Gill shares insights on engaging frontline staff, sustaining progress, and maintaining a commitment to delivering the highest quality care possible.
Guest:Josee Gill, DNP, RN, CPHQ, LSSGBDirector of Quality Bellin RegionEmplify Health
 
Host: Shannon Hale, MHA, RN, CPHQSenior Program Director, Performance Improvement ProgramsVizient 
 
Show Notes: 
[00:45]  Josie's healthcare journey from emergency nursing to quality leadership[02:42]  Overview of Emplify Health and the Bellin Region[03:21]  How Vizient collaboratives support performance improvement efforts[05:10]  Why continuous improvement never stops, even with strong performance[06:43]  Advice for professionals beginning a career in quality and performance improvement[08:27]  Building relationships with frontline teams and using data effectively[09:04]  Gaining leadership support through organizational benchmarking[10:09]  Practical approaches to sustaining performance improvement initiatives[12:13]  Advice for organizations participating in Vizient performance improvement programs[14:07]  The future of performance improvement at Emplify Health[15:02]  Incorporating patient advisors into improvement work[15:58]  Maintaining and improving quality through healthcare mergers
 
Links | Resources: Contacting Knowledge on the Go: picollaboratives@vizientinc.com 
 
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ASCs are a Little Tricky for Academics

In this episode of Sg2 Perspectives, host Trevor DaRin is joined by Sg2 expert Tony Guth to explore academic ambulatory surgery center (ASC) strategy. They discuss why academic medical centers face unique hurdles as surgical cases shift away from the hospital, including faculty practice dynamics, partnership apprehension and the need to create capacity for higher-acuity care. The conversation also highlights practical keys to success, from purposeful case migration and backfill planning to a more holistic view of margin across the patient journey.
We are always excited to get ideas and feedback from our listeners. You can reach us at sg2perspectives@sg2.com, or visit the Sg2 company page on LinkedIn.

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 PharmPharmacy Executive Director, Regulatory ComplianceVizient 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_Final.ashx 
 
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Leading Through AI Transformation

In this episode of Sg2 Perspectives, host Jayme Zage, PhD, is joined by Sg2 Senior Intelligence Director Andrew Rebhan to discuss how artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming the health care workforce. Together, they explore the evolving relationship between human and AI capabilities, from creativity and empathy to judgment, accountability and leadership. The conversation also examines emerging risks, governance considerations and the critical role health care leaders must play in preparing their organizations and teams for an AI-enabled future.
 
We are always excited to get ideas and feedback from our listeners. You can reach us at sg2perspectives@sg2.com, or visit the Sg2 company page on LinkedIn.

Service Line Success

In this episode of Sg2 Perspectives, host Jayme Zage, PhD, is joined by Donnelle Jageman and Rachael Zirkelbach to explore what it takes to achieve service line success in today’s rapidly evolving health care environment. The discussion examines how leading health systems are rethinking service line structures, leadership models, strategy, communication and performance measurement to drive growth and improve coordination across the full System of CARE. Tune in for practical insights on balancing enterprise priorities with local market needs.
 
We are always excited to get ideas and feedback from our listeners. You can reach us at sg2perspectives@sg2.com, or visit the Sg2 company page on LinkedIn.

Network Insights on Access and Capacity

In this episode of Sg2 Perspectives, host Trevor DaRin is joined by Sg2 experts Rebecca Limestall, Jayme Zage, PhD, and Anthony Guth to debrief insights from a recent Vizient® member network meeting focused on access and capacity. They discuss what health care leaders are prioritizing now, from internal alignment and value-based care to ambulatory strategy, philanthropy and care at home. 
 
We are always excited to get ideas and feedback from our listeners. You can reach us at sg2perspectives@sg2.com, or visit the Sg2 company page on LinkedIn.

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, MPHSenior Associate, Sg2 IntelligenceVizient, Inc.
 
Hailey Mulliner, MS-HSMSenior Director, Sg2 IntelligenceVizient, Inc.
 
Heather Pace, Pharm.D.Senior Clinical Manager, AmbulatoryVizient, 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.
 
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Supply Chain Variation

Supply variation reduction plays a critical role in helping healthcare organizations improve efficiency, lower costs, and support high quality patient care. Our host Shannon Hale speaks with Marcy Maddox, Executive Director of Supply Chain at University of Missouri Healthcare, about building clinician buy in, sustaining long term improvement, and creating a culture that embraces collaboration and continuous learning.
 
Guest Speaker: Marcy Maddox, MHAExecutive Director of Supply ChainUniversity of Missouri Healthcare
 
Host: Shannon Hale, MHA, RN, CPHQSenior Program Director, Performance Improvement ProgramsVizient 
 
Show Notes:
[1:55] Key lessons learned about clinician engagement and organizational alignment[3:22] How leadership support and physician champions helped drive progress[4:31] Why early wins encouraged more clinician participation[5:27] Strategies for organizing work and using data to support decisions[6:26] The importance of monitoring progress and maintaining accountability[8:07] How teams evaluate variation while prioritizing patient care[8:44] Marcy shares how past challenges helped shape future success[10:05] Ways leaders can create safe environments for collaboration and growth[11:21] The role leadership plays in shaping organizational culture[12:11] How supply chain work ultimately supports patient outcomes[13:00] Practical guidance for teams starting their variation reduction journey[14:53] What sustainable success looks like for variation reduction efforts
 
Links | Resources: Contacting Knowledge on the Go: picollaboratives@vizientinc.com 
 
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Field Stories on Health System Change

In this episode of Sg2 Perspectives, host Trevor DaRin is joined by Sg2 experts Rebecca Limestall and Brian Esser to unpack the growing urgency health systems are facing as financial pressure, payer mix shifts and margin challenges accelerate. Drawing on stories from the field and conversations with health system leaders across the country, they explore why long-term strategy and short-term priorities are often misaligned. The discussion highlights where organizations are making bold moves—and where hesitation remains—across ambulatory growth, service distribution, capital planning, and value-based care.
 
We are always excited to get ideas and feedback from our listeners. You can reach us at sg2perspectives@sg2.com, or visit the Sg2 company page on LinkedIn.

Free-standing Emergency Departments and Microhospitals as Part of the System of Care

Host Trevor DaRin is joined by Sg2 experts Ivy Zhu and Tori Richie to explore the evolving role of freestanding EDs, hybrid ED–urgent care models and micro hospitals in health system strategy. Together, they discuss how these sites can improve access, relieve pressure on traditional EDs and support more efficient care delivery—when deployed with clear intent. The conversation also looks ahead to how virtual care, digital transparency, payer pressure and specialty urgent care models may shape the future of emergency and ambulatory access.
 
We are always excited to get ideas and feedback from our listeners. You can reach us at sg2perspectives@sg2.com, or visit the Sg2 company page on LinkedIn.

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, MBAAssociate Director, Specialty and Infusion Pharmacies University of Illinois Hospital and Health System
 
Thom Platt, PharmD, PhD, MBA ,BCPSDirector of Specialty Pharmacy Services UK HealthCare 
 
Host:  
Carolyn Liptak, MBA, BS PharmPharmacy Executive Director, Regulatory ComplianceVizient Center for Pharmacy Practice Excellence  
 
Show Notes: 
00:05 – IntroductionOverview of VerifiedRx and the focus on pharmacy practice excellence.
00:14 – Episode Overview &amp; Guest IntroductionsHost 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 RemarksFinal thoughts and appreciation for guestsCall to action: subscribe, share feedback, and stay engaged with VerifiedRx
 
Links and Resources: https://www.mdpi.com/2226-4787/13/6/172
 
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Medication Reconciliation

Medication reconciliation plays a critical role in patient safety by ensuring medications are accurate, appropriate, and understood during transitions of care. Vizient host Shannon Hale speaks with Ekaterina Kossykh-Burrows, Clinical Pharmacist at Highland Hospital, about practical strategies to prioritize high risk patients, build trust with providers, and drive measurable impact through pharmacy led interventions.
 
Guest Speaker: Ekaterina Kossykh-Burrows Pharm.D., BCPSClinical PharmacistHighland Hospital
Host:Shannon Hale, MHA, RN, CPHQSenior Program Director, Performance Improvement ProgramsVizient 
Show Notes: 
[00:46] Overview of Highland Hospital and its patient population[01:20] The value of collaborative learning and participating in the performance improvement collaborative[03:09] Medication reconciliation workflows and how patients are prioritized[04:57] How a patient scoring system is developed, including risk factors and data validation[07:02] How medication related risk factors contribute to readmissions[07:32] Gaps in electronic records and the need for human involvement[08:46] The role of clinical judgment alongside technology[09:10] The impact of dedicated pharmacy roles on improving medication accuracy[10:29] Best practices for building programs, including starting small and maintaining consistency
 
Links | Resources: Contacting Knowledge on the Go: picollaboratives@vizientinc.com 
 
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Addressing Health Care Access Challenges

In this episode of Sg2 Perspectives, Jayme Zage, PhD is joined by Erika Johnson, Victoria Beal and Vernon Herbener of the Vizient Research Institute to explore the growing access challenges facing health care systems. Drawing on new research, they examine how aging populations and patients with multiple chronic conditions are driving disproportionately high utilization and care fragmentation. Together, they outline why health systems must rethink care models and adopt more coordinated, multidisciplinary approaches to better serve complex patient populations.
 
We are always excited to get ideas and feedback from our listeners. You can reach us at sg2perspectives@sg2.com, or visit the Sg2 company page on LinkedIn.
 

Holding the line: Capital Strategy for Rural and Independent Community Hospitals

Today we're going to explore the current state of rural hospitals and independent community hospitals, many of which are navigating razor thin margins and rising capital costs. We'll talk about emerging policy support and how this may impact capital investment decisions.
 
Guests:
Russell Hall
VP, Independent Community Market
Vizient
 
Rebecca Gayden
Sr Principal, Capital Equipment Solutions
Vizient
 
Host:
Susan Edwards
Product Marketing Manager
Vizient
 
Show Notes: 
[01:40 – 3:27] State of the union when it comes to rural hospitals
[03:27 – 04:09] The pressures being faced by rural and community hospitals and how that affects capital spend
[04:09 – 04:46] The tradeoffs being made
[04:46 – 6:27] How an independent hospital needs to prioritize
[6:27 – 8:22] Rural health transformation funds
[8:22 – 9:08] Following the money
[9:08 – 13:41] Determining eligibility and other options
[13:42 – 15:55] How we bridge the gap between strategy and action
[15:55 – 17:57] The most effective use of dollars
[17:57 – 19:10] Maximizing capital dollars
[19:10 – 20:47] Additional levers and Group buys
[20:47 – 24:11] What's ahead
[24:11 – 25:42] Wrap up and suggestions
 
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Strategy to Sustain Rural Hospitals

In this episode of Sg2 Perspectives, host Jayme Zage, PhD, is joined by Sg2 Associate Principal Trevor DaRin to explore the growing urgency of rural hospital strategy. They discuss mounting financial, workforce and access pressures, along with emerging opportunities tied to funding, partnerships and telehealth-enabled care models. The conversation highlights how health systems can support rural sustainability while optimizing capacity, transfers, and patient outcomes.
 
We are always excited to get ideas and feedback from our listeners. You can reach us at sg2perspectives@sg2.com, or visit the Sg2 company page on LinkedIn.

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 
 
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PSI Indicators

Patient safety indicators are more than numbers on a report. They expose where harm may be happening and where systems are breaking down. Katelyn Dietz, Director of Patient Safety and Quality at Lake Charles Memorial, shares how her team tackles rising PSI rates by strengthening documentation, aligning cross functional teams, and creating a more proactive review process. Joined by Vizient host Michelle Lewis, they unpack the real challenges behind PSI performance and what it takes to turn insight into action. 
 
Guest Speaker: Katelyn Dietz, MBA, RN, CPHQDirector of Patient Safety and QualityLake Charles Memorial
Host: Michelle Lewis Senior Director Programs, Performance Improvement ProgramsVizient 
 
Show Notes: 
[00:53] Focus on PSI at Lake Charles Memorial and why it was necessary [01:31] Establishing standardized criteria for selecting cases for review[02:40] Bringing  multiple departments together to change PSI approach [04:10] Engaging physicians in documentation improvement[05:45] PSI thirteen insights that would help other organizations [07:17] Substantial improvement in the patient safety composite score PSI ninety[08:37] How to sustain improvements to PSI scores 
 
Links | Resources: Contacting Knowledge on the Go: picollaboratives@vizientinc.com 
 
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Pharmacy Strategy

In this episode of Sg2 Perspectives, Jayme Zage, PhD, is joined by Sg2 experts Justin Cassidy, PhD, and Brian Esser to explore the evolving role of pharmacy across the health care system. As care shifts toward ambulatory settings, pharmacy is both a critical revenue driver and a strategic lever for growth, innovation and value-based care. The discussion highlights how clinical advancements, consumer demand and employer pressures are reshaping pharmacy strategy across inpatient and outpatient settings.
 
We are always excited to get ideas and feedback from our listeners. You can reach us at sg2perspectives@sg2.com, or visit the Sg2 company page on LinkedIn.

Integrative Medicine Strategy

In this episode of Sg2 Perspectives, Jayme Zage, PhD, is joined by Sg2 expert Hailey Mulliner to explore the growing momentum behind integrative medicine. They break down what integrative medicine includes, why consumer demand is accelerating, and how health systems can translate interest into viable strategy. The discussion also highlights evolving care models, competitive pressures from disruptors and the broader definition of ROI—including patient loyalty, new revenue streams and long-term value.
 
We are always excited to get ideas and feedback from our listeners. You can reach us at sg2perspectives@sg2.com, or visit the Sg2 company page on LinkedIn.

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 Chow, Vice President of the System Pharmacy Service Line, and 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., MSVice President, System Pharmacy Service LineOchsner Health
Dr. Catherine Oliver, BCPS, DPLA, CPGxSystem AVP, Clinical Pharmacy ServicesOchsner Health
Host Dr. Kerry Schwarz, Pharm.D., MPHSenior Clinical Manager, Evidence-Based Medicine and OutcomesVizient 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 &amp; 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 &amp; 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 &amp; Challenges

Rapid growth of AI vendors addressing niche problems
Key risks:
Data security concerns
Vendor quality variability
Overlapping or redundant solutions



 
12:51 — Integration &amp; 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 &amp; 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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Ambulatory Patient Access

Access to care in an ambulatory setting continues to challenge health systems as patient expectations grow, pushing organizations to rethink how patients connect with care. Our host Michelle Lewis joins Tyler Bauer, Senior Vice President of System Ambulatory Operations at University of Chicago Medicine to explore how their team is transforming access through more connected and intuitive processes. 
Guest:Tyler Bauer, MA, MBA, LCPCSenior Vice President, System Ambulatory OperationsUChicago Medicine
 
Host:Michelle LewisSenior Director Programs, Performance Improvement ProgramsVizient 
 
Show Notes: 
[00:45] Areas of improvement in ambulatory access [02:16] Biggest pain points for patients: connectedness, personalization, and navigation [03:51] Creating an omnichannel experience [04:43] AI tools being brought in to help with access strategy [06:18] Using ambient listening and other AI tools to make a difference for patients and staff [08:26] Organizational buy-in and compliance with AI application strategy [10:31] Advice to other healthcare organizations 
 
Links | Resources: Contacting Knowledge on the Go: picollaboratives@vizientinc.com 
 
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Volume Trends and What’s Next

In this episode of Sg2 Perspectives, Jayme Zage, PhD, is joined by Sg2 experts Tori Richie and Karyl Kopaskie, PhD, to unpack a notable shift in health care volumes as post–COVID-19 growth stabilizes. Together, they explore the drivers behind softening inpatient growth, recent operational efficiency gains, innovation and evolving payer pressures. The conversation highlights how outpatient migration and changing patient complexity are reshaping strategy, even as overall growth persists.
 
We are always excited to get ideas and feedback from our listeners. You can reach us at sg2perspectives@sg2.com, or visit the Sg2 company page on LinkedIn.

Structured Communication for Better Execution

In this episode of Sg2 Perspectives, Jayme Zage, PhD, is joined by Sg2 experts Rebecca Limestall and Janelle Kwan to explore why strategic plans often fail—and how effective communication can change that. They unpack how clear, consistent, and audience-specific messaging drives alignment across stakeholders and sustains momentum through execution. The conversation introduces a practical framework for communication and highlights the critical role of messengers, timing and organizational culture.
 
We are always excited to get ideas and feedback from our listeners. You can reach us at sg2perspectives@sg2.com, or visit the Sg2 company page on LinkedIn.
 
 

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  
Verified Rx Host 
 
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 theMedicare 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 &amp; 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 &amp; 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 &amp; 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 &amp; 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
 
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Rethinking Health Care Consumerism

In this episode of Sg2 Perspectives, host Tori Richie is joined by Sg2 experts Yelena Bouaziz and Nikita Arora to unpack the evolving reality of health care consumerism. Drawing on new national survey data, they challenge common assumptions and reveal what consumers truly value—long-term relationships, coordinated care and loyalty-driven experiences over transactional convenience. The conversation explores how health systems can rethink strategy, align around a consumer-focused “north star” and design care models that reflect real patient needs.
 
We are always excited to get ideas and feedback from our listeners. You can reach us at sg2perspectives@sg2.com, or visit the Sg2 company page on LinkedIn.

Patient Transfers

Patient transfers are a common part of hospital care, but they carry real risk, making strong communication and coordination essential for safe outcomes. Sharon Johnson, Executive Director of Throughput and Capacity at Community Health Network, shares a how her health system is rethinking its approach to transfers and patient flow. Joined by Vizient host Shannon Hale, they explore challenges and creative strategies involved in moving patients safely and efficiently.
 
Guest Speaker:  Sharon Johnson, MBAExecutive Director, Throughput and CapacityCHNw EMS education/ Ambulance Transportation
 
Host:Shannon Hale, MHA, RN, CPHQSenior Program Director, Performance Improvement ProgramsVizient 
 
Show Notes: 
[01:20] – Management of ambulance transportation [02:22] – Throughput initiatives implemented in each hospital [03:29] – Establishing communication through EMR [05:39] – Training staff and bringing awareness [06:40} – Communication and creating own triage process  [09:20] – Creating buy-in with your hospital leadership[12:26] – Developing policies and protocols that work with each facility [13:58] – What is the “easy button” for staff and patients 
 
Links | Resources: Contacting Knowledge on the Go: picollaboratives@vizientinc.com 
 
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Medicare Advantage: A Closer Look

In this episode of Sg2 Perspectives, host Trevor DaRin is joined by Sg2 Intelligence Director Ryota Terada to examine the evolving realities of Medicare Advantage. Moving beyond headlines, they explore new data on utilization, cost and patient mix—highlighting meaningful differences from fee-for-service. The conversation unpacks what these trends mean for health system strategy, operations and financial sustainability
 
We are always excited to get ideas and feedback from our listeners. You can reach us at sg2perspectives@sg2.com, or visit the Sg2 company page on LinkedIn.

Checkpoint Change: Rethinking How PD-1/PD-L1 Inhibitors Are Delivered

Immune checkpoint inhibitors targeting PD-1 and PD-L1 have transformed the treatment landscape across a wide variety of cancers, becoming foundational therapies in oncology. Dr. Stacey Sobocinski and Dr. Michele Rice join host Dr. Kerry Schwarz to discuss what the new subcutaneous PD-1/PD-L1 immune checkpoint inhibitors could mean for oncology practice. They cover the three agents that have become available in subcutaneous formulations, their advantages and disadvantages, other important operational, financial, clinical, and safety issues for health systems to consider.
 
Guest speaker:  
 
Stacey Sobocinski, Pharm.D., BCPS
Associate Director, Pharmacy Medication Management &amp; Informatics
MD Anderson Cancer Center 
 
Michele Rice, Pharm.D., BCOP
Senior Consulting Solutions Director
Vizient Pharmacy Enterprise Solutions
Host:  
Kerry Schwarz, Pharm.D., MPH
Senior Clinical Manager, Evidence-Based Medicine and Outcomes
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 Kerry introduces the topic: new subcutaneous formulations of PD-1 and PD-L1 immune checkpoint inhibitors.
These therapies have traditionally been administered intravenously (IV) in infusion centers.
Recently approved subcutaneous versions include:

Pembrolizumab (Keytruda Qlex)
Nivolumab (Opdivo Qvantig)
Atezolizumab (Tecentriq Hybreza)


Potential benefits include shorter administration times and relief for infusion centers operating at capacity.
Guests:

 Stacy Sobacinski, Associate Director of Pharmacy Medication Management and Informatics, MD Anderson Cancer Center
 Michelle Rice, Senior Pharmacy Enterprise Solutions Director, Vizient



01:39 — Clinical Data: Efficacy, Safety &amp; Pharmacokinetics

Subcutaneous formulations were approved in combination with hyaluronidase, allowing full-dose subcutaneous administration.
Clinical studies demonstrated:

Comparable pharmacokinetics
Similar efficacy
Similar safety profiles compared to IV formulations


The main difference observed was local injection site reactions, expected with subcutaneous administration.

02:32 — Confidence in Clinical Comparisons

Although direct head-to-head trials are limited, extensive experience with IV formulations supports confidence in safety and efficacy.
Differences largely relate to administration method, not drug activity.

03:11 — Operational Impact: Changes to Workflow

Subcutaneous administration introduces new operational considerations.
Shorter injection times may appear advantageous, but real-world workflow impact is still being evaluated
Much of a patient’s visit still involves:

Waiting room time
Laboratory testing
Provider visits
Care coordination



 
04:06 — Chair Time vs Total Visit Time

For therapies previously requiring longer infusions, switching to subcutaneous injections can significantly reduce chair time.
For therapies previously infused over 30 minutes, the difference between IV and subcutaneous administration time may be less impactful.

 
04:24 — Administration Challenges

Subcutaneous doses are not small-volume injections.
Injection volumes may reach 10–15 mL
Nursing considerations include:

Patient tolerance for larger-volume injections.
IV infusions allow nurses to start the infusion and attend to other tasks.
Subcutaneous injections require continuous nursing presence during administration.
This may increase direct nursing time.



 
 
 
05:05 — Equipment Considerations

Some centers may use syringe pumps to administer subcutaneous injections.
Many adult infusion centers do not currently have pumps since chemotherapy is typically delivered via IV using infusion pumps.
Implementing syringe pumps could require additional equipment and associated procedures.

 
05:32 — Operational Complexity

Transitioning to subcutaneous therapy involves more than simply switching order sets.
Organizations must evaluate:

Staffing models
Nursing workflows
Equipment availability
Infusion center capacity management.



 
06:25 — Financial Considerations

Subcutaneous formulations are currently priced roughly at parity with IV versions.
Manufacturers may be incentivized to transition providers to subcutaneous formulations before biosimilars enter the market.

 
07:07 — Anticipating Market Dynamics

Over time, pricing strategies may shift to encourage broader adoption.
Biosimilar competition for these agents is expected within the next few years.

 
07:11 — Site of Care Considerations

Adoption may vary by care setting:

Hospital outpatient departments
Physician offices
Freestanding infusion centers



 
08:06 — Strategic Timing Decisions

Health systems may weigh:

Operational advantages of subcutaneous administration
Potential cost reductions from future biosimilars


Some organizations may delay adoption until biosimilar competition arrives.

 
08:24 — Infusion Center Optimization

Subcutaneous therapies could increase turnover.
Some centers may develop “express lanes” for subcutaneous administration.

 
09:01 — Payer Influence

If subcutaneous formulations are perceived as cheaper or operationally simpler, payers may:

Restrict site of care
Prefer administrations in physician offices or non-hospital settings.



 
09:45 — Key Questions for Health Systems
Organizations should consider:

What value does the new dosage form provide?
Which patients benefit most from subcutaneous administration?
How will payer policies evolve?

 
10:05 — Evaluating Clinical Value

Institutions often approach new dosage forms with caution.
Subcutaneous PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors may not offer the administration time reductions seen with other biologics because there is not as large of a difference in administration times (30 minutes versus 5 minutes).

 
10:53 — Patient Selection Considerations
Subcutaneous formulations may be most beneficial for patients:

Receiving monotherapy
With difficult IV access

Patients receiving combination therapies may see less benefit since IV access is already required.
 
11:12 — Additional Patient Factors

Some patients have low body mass or cachexia, making high-volume subcutaneous injections more difficult.
Physicians may prefer individualized treatment decisions rather than blanket formulary changes.

11:33 — Final Thoughts

Transitioning to subcutaneous PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors involves clinical, operational, and financial considerations.
Observation times, administration practices, and workflow models continue to evolve.
Ongoing monitoring of emerging best practices is encouraged.

12:15 — Closing

ongoing monitoring of emerging best practices.
Listeners are invited to subscribe and follow VerifiedRx for future episodes.

 
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AI and Patient Navigation

Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly reshaping how patients search for, access and navigate care. Host Trevor DaRin is joined by Sg2 Senior Director Andrew Rebhan to explore the rise of the “AI care broker” and what it could mean for health care’s digital front door. From OpenAI and Anthropic to payers and disrupters, they unpack how AI intermediaries may increasingly steer patient decisions—often before a health system is even in the picture.
 
We are always excited to get ideas and feedback from our listeners. You can reach us at sg2perspectives@sg2.com, or visit the Sg2 company page on LinkedIn.

Health Care’s Three-Year Forward View

Sg2’s Three Years Forward webinar highlights the forces set to shape health care strategy through 2026. Host Trevor DaRin is joined by Sg2 experts William Woodson, Chad Giese and Brian Esser to examine mounting financial pressures, shifting site-of-care dynamics and widening economic divergence across markets. Together, they explore what system optimization, ambulatory and post-acute growth and emerging clinical innovations—from AI to advanced therapeutics—mean for performance in the years ahead.
 
We are always excited to get ideas and feedback from our listeners. You can reach us at sg2perspectives@sg2.com, or visit the Sg2 company page on LinkedIn.
 

Refining Pediatric Strategy with Data

In this episode, we unpack new pediatric research from the Vizient® Clinical Data Base (CDB) with Sg2 Associate Principal Rhae Ana Gamber and Vizient’s Research, Analytics and Insights team—Lead Hannah Murphy, PhD, and Associate Principal Alyssa Harris. From rising ICU utilization and RSV surges to firearm injury, diabetes and mental health, the team explores how clinical complexity and community vulnerability are reshaping pediatric care. By layering in the patent pending Vizient Vulnerability Index™, they reveal how social risk factors influence where and how children access care—and with what outcomes. Tune in for data-driven insights that help health system leaders translate pediatric trends into strategic action.
 
Vizient Vulnerability Index™ Patent Pending. Copyright Vizient Inc. 2022. All rights reserved.
 
We are always excited to get ideas and feedback from our listeners. You can reach us at sg2perspectives@sg2.com, or visit the Sg2 company page on LinkedIn.

Optimizing the Cath Lab

In this episode of Sg2 Perspectives, host Jayme Zage, PhD, is joined by Sg2 Senior Director Joshua Aaker, PhD, to explore how health systems can tackle rising cardiovascular (CV) demand amid growing capacity constraints—especially in the cath lab. As transcatheter valve procedures expand and outpatient volumes surge, cath labs are becoming a critical bottleneck for growth and performance. Jayme and Joshua discuss how organizations can use scenario planning tools, data-driven insights and operational alignment to optimize cath lab utilization without defaulting to costly new construction. Tune in to learn how strategy, finance, operations and quality leaders can come together to future-proof CV services.
 
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Mortality Outcomes

Mortality affects hospitals all over the country and having structured systems in place helps improve outcomes. Tiffany Harvey, Quality Assurance Reviewer at INTEGRIS Health, joins host Shannon Hale, Senior PI Program Director at Vizient, to discuss why a meaningful mortality review process is so critical to quality improvement work. They reflect on lessons learned from Vizient’s mortality review collaborative and the value of learning alongside peer organizations.
 
Guest Speaker:
Tiffany Harvey, RN
Quality Assurance Reviewer
INTEGRIS Health
 
Host:
Shannon Hale, MHA, RN, CPHQ Senior Program Director, Performance Improvement Programs Vizient  
 
Show Notes:  
[00:52] – Participation in Establishing a Structured Mortality Review Team Collaborative  
[01:35] – Goals from joining the collaborative  
[02:29] – Insights that helped inform change to mortality process  
[03:33] – How Integris and Tiffany’s team are improving the outcomes  
[04:59} – After the collaborative where is team and the improvement work going  
[06:04] – Sustainability in mortality review  
[07:18] – Looking to the future what is the dream for mortality review  
 
Links | Resources: Contacting Knowledge on the Go: picollaboratives@vizientinc.com 
 
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Building Resilient Health Systems

In this episode of Sg2 Perspectives, host Jayme Zage, PhD is joined by Sg2 experts Catherine Maji and Jodi Eisenberg to unpack new research on the relationship between quality and health system resilience. The conversation explores why quality is no longer just table stakes—but a strategic lever tied to financial performance, workforce stability, and long-term sustainability. From executive leadership and culture to data, accountability, and system-wide alignment, this episode reframes quality as a core driver of organizational strength in today’s pressured healthcare environment.
 
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Winter 2026 Spend Management Outlook

Dr. Jeni Hayes, Senior Clinical Manager, Strategic Clinical Intelligence, and Dr. Heather Pace, Senior Clinical Manager, Ambulatory Care, join host Carolyn Liptak to discuss the Vizient Winter 2026 Spend Management Outlook, with a focus on pharmacy projections and key changes from prior outlooks. The episode also covers ambulatory care and self-administered drugs, biosimilar therapeutic insights, and dynamic pharmacy market forces.
 
Guest speaker:  
 
Jeni Hayes, PharmD, BCPS  
Senior Clinical Manager, Strategic Clinical Intelligence
Vizient Spend Management Solutions
 
Heather Pace, PharmD  
Senior Clinical Manager, Ambulatory Care
Vizient Center for Pharmacy Practice Excellence  
 
Host:  
Carolyn Liptak, MBA, BS PharmPharmacy Executive Director, Regulatory Compliance &amp; Revenue IntegrityCenter for Pharmacy Practice Excellence (CPPE)Vizient
 
00:05 — Introduction

Announcer welcomes listeners to Verified Rx, produced by the Vizient Center for Pharmacy Practice Excellence.

 
00:14 — Episode Overview

Host Carolyn Liptak, Pharmacy Executive Director at Vizient, introduces the Winter 2026 Spend Management Outlook (SMO).
Focus areas:

Pharmacy inflation projections
Acute vs ambulatory care trends
Provider-administered vs self-administered drugs
Biosimilar therapeutic insights
Dynamic pharmacy market forces shaping 2026–2030


Guests:

 Jeni Hayes, Senior Clinical Manager, Strategic Clinical Intelligence
 Heather Pace, Senior Clinical Manager, Ambulatory Care



 
01:09 — What Is the Spend Management Outlook (SMO)?

Biannual Vizient publication projecting price trends across healthcare spend categories.
Pharmacy headline:

Inflation slightly lower than last edition
Total spend still rising, driven by utilization growth and new technologies



 
01:49 — Top-Line Pharmacy Inflation Projection

2.84% projected drug inflation for purchases between July 2026 – June 2027.
Down from 3.35% in the prior edition.
Based on October 2024 – September 2025 wholesaler data.
Heavily weighted toward highest-spend drugs.
Contracted products show lower inflation; non-contract drugs still ~70% of spend.

 
02:45 — Inflation by Site of Care
Acute Care

3.03% projected inflation
Driven by:

Sugammadex
Kcentra
Clotting factors



Ambulatory Care

2.85% overall, but with key divergence:

Provider-administered drugs: 3.35%
Self-administered drugs: 2.43%



 
04:02 — Provider-Administered Drugs: What’s Driving Growth

Oncology infusions are the main drivers.
Key agents:

Keytruda
Darzalex Faspro


Continued growth due to:

Expanded indications
Increased outpatient infusion utilization


Oncology split by site of care:

Inpatient: High-cost CAR T (e.g., Yescarta)
Outpatient: Infusions, bispecifics, emerging cellular therapies


Emphasizes importance of site of care strategy.

 
05:14 — Self-Administered Drugs: Utilization Over Inflation

Five key drivers:

Autoimmune / inflammatory: Skyrizi, Dupixent, Rinvoq
Diabetes / metabolic / weight loss: Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, Zepbound


Spend growth fueled by:

Media exposure
Expanded indications
Increased patient demand


Opportunity for:

Retail &amp; specialty pharmacy optimization
Margin capture
Patient support (adherence, counseling, benefits investigation)



 
06:45 — New Section: Dynamic Pharmacy Market Forces (2026–2030)
Seven strategic forces influencing pharmacy practice:

Growth in specialty and cell &amp; gene therapies
Expansion of value- and outcomes-based contracting
Siteofcare shifts toward ambulatory and home
Digital transformation &amp; automation
Supply assurance and resilience
Expanded pharmacist clinical scope &amp; workforce models
Regulatory and policy efforts to lower drug prices

340B changes
IRA Medicare Part D negotiations



 
09:37 — Practical Takeaways for Pharmacy Leaders

Use 2.84% inflation as a baseline — then customize using Vizient Pharmacy Analytics.
Leverage segmented views to prioritize:

Acute vs ambulatory strategies
Provider-administered vs self-administered drugs


Identify top spend movers and align them with long-term market forces.
Consider:

Specialty pharmacy expansion
Site of care optimization



 
10:48 — Biosimilar Therapeutic Insights: 2025 Recap
Heather Pace highlights:

Shift from biosimilar approval to active adoption management.
Ustekinumab (Stelara) as defining example:

Multiple biosimilars
Uptake driven by payer and PBM strategy


Utilization varies widely based on:

Formulary design
Benefit alignment


Biosimilars now actively steered, not passively adopted.

 
11:50 — Why Stelara Was a Turning Point

PBM-developed, private-label biosimilars drove adoption.
Net cost and copay design outweighed:

Interchangeability status
Manufacturer differentiation


Sets expectations for future biologic launches.

 
12:25 — Operational Impact for Health Systems

Expect payer-specific product preferences.
Frequent switching will become routine.
Key considerations:

Siteofcare mandates
Product presentation
Supply chain logistics
Billing &amp; reimbursement complexity


Clinical barriers are decreasing; workflow flexibility is critical.

 
13:09 — What to Expect From Biosimilars in 2026

Faster adoption timelines
Earlier payer-driven switching
Fewer preferred products
Less reliance on reference product trial periods

 
13:45 — Biosimilars With Major 2026 Impact

Eylea — multiple launches expected post-litigation
Xolair — expansion into asthma/allergy and retail specialty
Perjeta — oncology pathway disruption expected late 2026 / early 2027

 
15:01 — 2025 Biosimilars Impacting 2026

Ustekinumab (Stelara): broader formulary shifts
Denosumab (Prolia, Xgeva): full year of impact; all interchangeable
Eculizumab (Soliris): first rare-disease biosimilar entry

 
15:58 — FDA Biosimilar Guidance to Watch

Late-2025 FDA guidance:

Reduced reliance on clinical efficacy trials
Greater emphasis on analytical similarity


Aims to:

Reduce development cost
Accelerate market entry



 
16:26 — Interchangeability: Where Things Are Headed

Moving toward expectation that all biosimilars are interchangeable.
Shifts responsibility to:

Payers
Health systems
Pharmacists managing transitions and education



 
17:17 — Biggest Shift in the Biosimilar Landscape

Faster launches
Larger scale adoption
Payer strategy more influential than timing of approval
Success depends on:

Formulary fit
Channel alignment
Operational simplicity



 
17:41 — Final Biosimilar Insight

Biosimilar strategies must be molecule-specific.
One-size-fits-all approaches are no longer effective.

 
18:13 — Final Thoughts on the SMO

Inflation projections are a starting point.
Leaders should:

Focus on top spend drugs
Understand siteofcare and specialty drivers
Translate projections into actionable budgets



 
18:40 — Resources

Winter 2026 Spend Management Outlook available on Vizient’s SMO Hub.
Includes current and prior editions and related insights.

 
18:58 — Closing

Carolyn thanks Jeni and Heather.
Reminder to subscribe, like, and share feedback.
Verified Rx is produced by the Vizient Center for Pharmacy Practice Excellence.

 
Links | Resources: 

Vizient Spend Management Outlook webpage
Vizient Winter 2026 Spend Management Outlook
Vizient Biosimilars Therapeutic Insights

 
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Rethinking Pain Management

Pain management touches nearly every patient and every site of care, yet most health systems still struggle to define it as a cohesive strategy. In this episode of Sg2 Perspectives, host Trevor DaRin is joined by Sg2 experts Justin Cassidy, PhD, Donnelle Jageman and Kate Zentner to explore why pain is a critical front door to health care services. The conversation examines new non-opioid innovations, shifting reimbursement policy and the expanding role of ambulatory and virtual care. Listeners will learn how a more comprehensive, system-wide approach to pain management can improve access, capacity and financial performance.
 
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Tailwinds for 2026

In this episode of Sg2 Perspectives, host Trevor DaRin is joined by Sg2 Senior Principal Bill Woodson to explore the “tailwinds” shaping health care in 2026. From financial stability and operational discipline to bold transformation strategies, Bill shares reasons for measured optimism across the industry. The conversation covers workforce innovation, ambient scribing, artificial intelligence (AI) adoption and health system “systemness” in action. Tune in to hear how health care leaders are tackling cost pressures while investing in scalable, tech-enabled solutions.
 
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CDC Childhood Immunization Schedule Updates (January 2026)

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 &amp; 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 &amp; 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
 
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Forecasting Coverage Shifts Ahead

In this episode of Sg2 Perspectives, host Trevor DaRin is joined by Sg2 experts Tori Richie and Karyl Kopaskie, PhD, to unpack the 2026 Insurance Coverage Forecast and major shifts expected across Medicaid, the ACA exchanges, commercial coverage and Medicare Advantage. They also discuss how this data informs Sg2’s Impact of Change® forecast and supports scenario planning for demand and utilization. This conversation delivers timely insights for health system leaders preparing for shifting payer dynamics.
 
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Sepsis Awareness

Sepsis affects millions of people each year and remains one of the most complex and deadly medical emergencies facing healthcare today. Michelle Lewis, Senior Director of PI Programs at Vizient, is joined by Shannon Hale, Senior PI Programs Director and sepsis subject matter expert, to explore why sepsis is so difficult to identify. Together, they discuss awareness gaps that still exist across providers, staff and communities. 
Guest Speaker: Shannon Hale, MHA, RN, CPHQSenior Program DirectorPerformance Improvement Programs
 
Host: Michelle LewisSenior Director ProgramsPerformance Improvement Programs
 
Show Notes: [00:47] Why sepsis remains a critical and complex challenge in healthcare[01:58] Vizient sepsis projects and what members are struggling with most[2:45] Lessons learned from sepsis performance improvement teams and the role of champions[03:43] Executive sponsorships and celebrating wins [06:10] Sustaining education, addressing staff and resident turnover[07:10] New approaches to education including social media and community engagement[08:28] How organizations and individuals can increase sepsis awareness [10:09] Public policy advocacy and educating lawmakers about sepsis [11:01] Potential role of AI in earlier identification 
 
Links | Resources:Contacting Knowledge on the Go: picollaboratives@vizientinc.com
 
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Operational Considerations for ASC Strategy

This episode continues The Wider View, an Sg2 Perspectives podcast series focused on topics that are important to all types of organizations across health care. Host Jayme Zage, PhD, is joined by Vizient Spend Management leaders Brooke Beltran and Allen Passarello, as well as Sg2 Senior Director Anthony Guth, to explore the operational, financial and supply chain considerations that are essential for leaders in developing a successful and sustainable ASC strategy.
 
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2026 OPPS Final Rule: What Hospitals Need to Know

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 deviceseligible 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 &amp; 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)

 
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The Capital Commit Program

Haphazard plans aren't really plans at all and when you are dealing with capital commitments that can range from thousands to hundreds of thousands of dollars In expense, the work you do BEFORE you spend Is as Important as the spend Itself. That's where Capital Commit comes In. 
 
Guests: 
Mahogany Laur Program Services Manager Vizient 
 
Tammi Pegues Program Services Director Vizient 
 
Moderator: 
Susan Edwards Product Marketing Manager Vizient 
 
Show Notes:  
[00:45 – 05:08] What Is the capital commit program? What Is the history of It? 
[05:08 – 08:04] The power of aggregation and the Ideal client. 
[08:04 – 09:20] Utilizing leverage and commitment. 
[09:20 – 12:10] Group buys and how commit Is different. 
[12:10 – 14:52] How does the program support the suppliers? The power of Data. 
[14:52 – 15:46] Price paid transparency. 
[15:46 – 20:32] What Is the future of Capital Commit? 
[20:32 – 22:37] Wrap up and suggestions  
 
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Planning beyond 2025

As health systems step into 2026, many are reassessing priorities and building on the lessons learned in 2025. In this episode of Sg2 Perspectives, host Trevor DaRin is joined by Sg2 expert Rebecca Limestall to reflect on last year’s strategic surprises and preview what’s ahead. They discuss policy pressure points, shifting definitions of systemness, and the renewed focus on long-term financial and strategic resilience. Drawing on conversations with members and boards, they share insights to help guide health care leaders into the year ahead.
 
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The GOAT of GPO’s

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, CPhTNational 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 &amp; 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 &amp; 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

 
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Care Between Visits

Healthcare providers are receiving patient portal messages at large volumes, reshaping how care teams deliver and manage care between visits. As patient messaging grows from simple prescription questions to complex clinical concerns, this “invisible” work is placing a significant strain on provider workload. In this episode, Vizient Fellow Mathilde Hanchard talks to Dr. Ko, Director and Chief of Dermatology Service Line and Associate Chief Quality Officer at Stanford Health Care, about how his team uncovers the true scope of patient medical interactions. 
 
Guest Speaker: Dr. Justin M. Ko, MD, MBADirector and Chief of Medical DermatologyStanford Health Care (SHC)
Host: Mathilde Hanchard, MS-HSMFellow, Performance Improvement ProgramsVizient 
 
Show Notes:
[00:52] Dr. Ko explains provider workload tied to patient portal messaging [02:12] Rapid growth of patient portal messages since 2020 [03:50] Making portal messaging more visible and measurable[05:27] The complexity of accurately quantifying the communication workload [07:47] Plans to publish and share data[11:19] Evaluating patient portal messages and trends[12:57] The future of patient portal messaging within care delivery
 
Links | Resources:Contacting Knowledge on the Go: picollaboratives@vizientinc.com
 
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Strategy Starts With Forecasting

In this episode of Sg2 Perspectives, host Trevor DaRin is joined by Sg2 experts Karyl Kopaskie, PhD, and Danni Park to unpack the art and science behind Sg2’s 10-year demand forecast, the Impact of Change®. They explore the expert-driven process, how the forecast has evolved over 25 years, and the “why” behind the numbers that help members make strategic decisions. Using real-world examples—from post-acute care to women’s health—they highlight how clinical insights, technology trends and policy signals shape Sg2’s trusted projections. Whether you're new to forecasting or a long-time user, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at what makes the forecast such a powerful strategic tool.
 
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Reimagining Service Line Strategy

In this episode of Sg2 Perspectives, guest host Kara Marlatt, PhD, joins host Jayme Zage, PhD, for a timely discussion on how demographic shifts, rising demand, and capacity constraints are reshaping clinical service lines. Sg2 experts Setu Shah, Chad Giese, Dionne Dela Cruz, and Rachael Zirkelbach also join the conversation to share how organizations are rethinking care delivery across cardiovascular, cancer, women’s health, and surgery. From lifespan-based segmentation to cross-specialty collaboration and strategic partnerships, this conversation highlights innovative strategies to meet demand and drive growth.
 
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Return of Pipeline 2026 – Cell and Gene Therapies

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, BCPSSenior 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 &amp; 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 &amp; 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 &amp; Outcomes

Currentstandard of care: rituximab.
After relapse, survival &lt;1 month (HSCT) or &lt;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 &amp; 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: https://info.vizientinc.com/spend-management-outlook-client-details
Therapeutic class insights: https://info.vizientinc.com/spend-management-outlook-client-details
FDA webpage: https://www.fda.gov/vaccines-blood-biologics/cellular-gene-therapy-products/approved-cellular-and-gene-therapy-products

 
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Unlocking Hidden Value

Where is the true hidden value in capital equipment procurements?  Capital purchases are often high-stakes decisions that require coordination between clinical, financial and operational teams. Listen In as we unlock the secrets to finding hidden value within your capital expenditures.
 
Guest:
Adam Fairbourn
Sr. Director, Contract Services
Vizient
 
Joni Swartz
Sr. Director, Contract Services
Vizient
 
Host:
Susan Edwards
Product Marketing Manager
Vizient
 
Show Notes: 
[01:24 – 03:05] What makes capital equipment procurement unique?
[03:05 – 05:30] Vizient's bid process explained.
[05:30 – 07:13] How important is the total cost of ownership?
[07:13 – 9:58] What value can be unlocked In the GPO national agreements.
[9:58 – 12:17] Examples of how the framework Is put together.
[12:17 – 13:39] What Is the value of unlocking a GPO?
[13:39 – 14:58] How can smaller clients unlock the same value?
[14:58 – 16:18] Are group buys available?
[16:18 – 19:10] Unlocking value on a large scale.
[19:10 – 21:45] Are there quick wins to be found?
[21:45 – 23:05] Wrap up and suggestions
 
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Exploring Diabetes Care Trends

In this episode of Sg2 Perspectives, host Jayme Zage, PhD is joined by Sg2 experts Emily Fitt and Rhae Ana Gamber to discuss evolving diabetes care trends through both clinical and strategic lens. They explore key differences in managing pediatric vs adult populations and type 1 vs type 2 diabetes, along with emerging innovations such as GLP-1 medications, continuous glucose monitors and automated insulin delivery systems. The conversation also highlights the importance of personalized care, social determinants of health, and systemwide planning to meet rising demand and improve outcomes.
 
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Pipeline 2026: The Movers, the Shapers, & What Matters

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.

 
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Strategic Service Line Innovation

In this episode of Sg2 Perspectives, host Jayme Zage, PhD, is joined by Sg2 experts Jen Goff, Emily Fitt, Kara Marlatt, PhD, Donnelle Jageman and Kate Zentner to explore the most impactful clinical innovations reshaping care delivery and how health care organizations are adapting in real time. From GLP-1s and AI-driven behavioral health tools to site of care shifts and interdisciplinary care models, they discuss strategies to meet rising demand, scale innovation and safeguard margins across different service lines.
 
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Automated patient messaging

Patient messaging has become more common across health systems, but few use it in a way that truly supports better health outcomes. Northwestern Medicine’s Smart Outreach for Better Health is taking patient communication a step further by using automation to identify specific populations and send personalized clinically relevant messages. Our host Myesha Williams and Northwestern’s Program Manager Dharmesh Patel share how this initiative bridges care gaps, boosts follow up rates and helps patients stay engaged in their own care.
 
Guest speaker:
Dharamesh PatelProgram Manager, Quality and Patient SafetyNorthwestern Medicine 
 
Host:Myesha Williams SN, RNFellow, Performance Improvement ProgramsVizient
 
Show notes: 
[00:56] – Overview of the Better Health initiative and how patient messaging was deployed
[01:53] – Collaboration between data and quality leaders that launched automated patient outreach
[03:17] – Implementing a systemwide strategy to enhance outreach and care coordination
[04:19] – Timing messages to reach patients when they’re most likely to respond
[06:32] – Role of patient and family advisors in driving success and credibility
[07:40] – How the team increased follow-through rates, engaging 13% of patients
[09:12] – Tackling challenges and leveraging EMR analyst expertise
[09:54] – Addressing time constraints as a key project barrier
 
Links | Resources:Contacting Knowledge on the Go: picollaboratives@vizientinc.com
 
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Precision Equipment Planning Boosted by Vizient’s GPO

What makes medical equipment planning such a crucial part of the construction, expansion and renovation equation? When you think of construction costs, you can't limit yourself to thinking of bricks and drywall. There's way more to It. In this episode, we explore the costs associated with medical equipment and medical equipment planning so that you're better Informed when It comes time to renovate or build that new medical space.
 
Guest:
Patrick Melone
Associate Principal, Capital Equipment Solutions
Vizient
 
Host:
Susan Edwards
Product Marketing Manager
Vizient
 
Show Notes: 
[00:52 – 02:21] What's the big picture? Why Is medical equipment planning Important?
[02:30 – 03:30] The hidden pitfalls of construction and expansion projects.
[03:31 – 04:50] How do you now need to approach equipment planning with new developments in technology?
[04:51 – 7:27] How does cyber security play into planning?
[7:28 – 9:10] Where can cost overruns happen?
[9:20 –10:45] The lifecycle of equipment. The total cost of ownership.
[10:47 – 11:29] The Importance of terms and conditions.
[11:27 – 12:24] Is sustainability a key decision-making element?
[12:24 – 14:17] The Vizient difference. The value of the GPO.
[14:17 – 16:34] How do we get a project to the finish line?
[16:34 – 18:02] Budget management.
[18:02 – 19:09] The role of medical equipment planning during the construction process.
[19:09 – 19:56] The owner contractor architect meeting.
[19:56 – 21:17] Key takeaways and things to think about.
[21:17 – 22:15] Wrap up and suggestions
 
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Reframing Physician Alignment Strategy

In this episode of Sg2 Perspectives, host Trevor DaRin is joined by Sg2 expert Mahaya Walker to unpack surprising insights from a recent Strategy Exchange focused on the evolving role of strategy teams in physician alignment. They explore why strategy leaders are often underutilized in alignment efforts, how generational shifts are shaping physician employment models, and where gaps exist between short-term activities and long-term goals like Value-Based Care. Tune in for fresh perspectives on how academic medical centers and community hospitals are navigating this complex terrain.
 
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Beyond the Formulary: Evolving Enterprise P&T Committees

Pharmacy and Therapeutics (P&amp;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&amp;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 Connor 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
Connor Hanrahan, PharmD, MHA, MS, BCPS, CPHQAVP, 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&amp;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
 
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Human + Workforce in Practice

As workforce shortages persist, health systems must think beyond traditional staffing models. This week on Sg2 Perspectives, host Trevor DaRin and Sg2 expert Janelle Kwan discuss the Human + Workforce: an emerging model where people and technology collaborate to meet care demands more efficiently. They explore real-world applications in specialties like endocrinology and colorectal cancer, address equity and physician engagement, and outline what it takes to scale this model system-wide.
 
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2025 Economic Index

In this Sg2 Perspectives episode, host Trevor DaRin is joined by Sg2 experts Sushma Narra and Ryota Terada to unpack the newly released Sg2 Economic Index 3.0. They explore what’s new in the latest version, how it enables more granular, forward-looking market analysis, and how health systems and industry partners are using it to guide strategic decisions. From market-specific insights to climate risk and competition, this tool helps leaders anticipate future challenges before they hit the balance sheet.
 
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Challenges with AI in Pharmacy

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 Scaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences on the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus in Aurora, Colorado, and Logan Tinson, the clinical pharmacy manager and residency program director at Benefis Hospital in Great Falls, Montana.
 
Guest speakers: 
Jennifer Trujillo, PharmD, BCPS, CDCES, BC-ADMAssociate Dean for Education
Professor, Department of Clinical Pharmacy
Scaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences
University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus
Logan Tinsen, PharmD, FMPAClinical Pharmacy Manager and Residency Program DirectorBenefits 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
 
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Transforming Health Care With Precision Medicine

Precision medicine is no longer a futuristic concept—it’s shaping care today. Sg2 experts Justin Cassidy, PhD, Kara Marlatt, PhD, and Andrew Rebhan join host Trevor DaRin to explore how data, artificial intelligence (AI) and genetics are transforming treatment from “one size fits all” to personalized care. They discuss where health systems are leading, where challenges remain and how organizations can strategically invest in this evolving landscape.
 
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Pharmacy medication histories


Pharmacy driven medication history programs are essential for accurate transitions of care and patient safety, especially in rural and resource-limited settings. Jenny Slavens, from IU Health Arnett shares how her team built a 24/7 regional program that provides medication history support for their community hospital and several critical access facilities. She discusses the shift from a nurse-led to a pharmacy technician-driven model, the operational challenges of scaling services across multiple sites, and the decision to use phone-based interviews to streamline workflows. 
 
Speaker: Jenny Slavens, PharmD, BCPS Pharmacy Manager Inpatient Clinical Pharmacy Services Department of PharmacyIndiana University Health - West Region
 
Host: Jim Lichauer, PharmD, BCPS, FASHPSr PI Program Director, PharmacyPerformance Improvement ProgramsVizient
 
Show notes: 
[00:52] – Jenny outlines the structure of the medication history team at IU Health Arnett and how the program operates across facilities
[02:10] – Discussion of coverage for critical access hospitals and how the team manages varying hours across sites
[02:53] – The evolution from a nurse-led process to a pharmacy-driven model for medication history documentation
[04:08] – Why the team shifted from using web-based technology to phone-based medication histories for efficiency and safety
[05:20] – How bidirectional communication between pharmacy staff and physicians is maintained through the electronic medical record system
[07:03] – Establishing the goal of completing 80% of medication histories within four hours of admission to support timely care decisions
[08:55] – How the newly added Tipton facility improved from 10% to 72% completion of medication histories
[10:56] – Strategies for balancing staff workload across inpatient, surgical, and emergency admissions
[14:22] – Demonstrating the value of the medication history process and creatively using FTE staffing to improve coverage and efficiency
 
Links | Resources:Contacting Knowledge on the Go: picollaboratives@vizientinc.com
 
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Mastering Environmental Scenario Planning

Uncertainty is the new normal in health care, but strategic leaders don’t have to guess what’s ahead. In this episode, Sg2 experts Janelle Kwan and Anthony Guth join host Jayme Zage, PhD, to explore environmental scenario planning—a strategic approach that helps health systems proactively prepare for a range of external futures. They introduce the EDICT framework (External, Distinct, Impactful, Credible, Timely), which guides organizations in identifying which potential scenarios are most critical to address.
 
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Inside the Clean Room - Safely Handling Cell & Gene Therapies

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, PhDPrincipal Microbiologist, Technical Services Group
Contec
Amanda Frick, PharmD, BCPSSenior Clinical Manager, Market IntelligenceVizient
 
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 &amp; 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 &amp; 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

 
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Total Cost of Ownership

What is the true cost of ownership when it comes to medical equipment? When you think of capital spending, ownership costs can become very configurable from the standpoint that everyone has different systems, tools and methods to arrive at a base value. That's why Vizient has put tools in place that allow for a certain amount of standardization and consistency, essentially leveling the field when it comes to ownership costs and strategies.
 
Guest:
Danny Cisneros
Sr. Consulting Director
Vizient
 
Host:
Susan Edwards
Product Marketing Manager
Vizient
 
Show Notes: 
[00:46 – 03:15] What Is total cost of ownership? What Is Its history?
[03:15 – 04:13] The science behind "unbundling" of equipment costs
[04:13 – 08:20] How does the cost of ownership Impact expansion?
[08:20 – 10:22] The approach to consolidating people and resources
[10:22 – 12:28] Unbundling and the lifecycle of equipment
[12:28 – 13:44] Finding the hidden costs and working over time
[13:44 – 15:27] Assets advice for organizations
[15:27 – 16:22] Balancing needs and outcomes for the ASC's
[16:22 – 19:07] Real life examples and how to respond
[19:07 – 21:15] Does everyone face the same challenges and what Is It about capital equipment that adds to the complexity of the Issue?
[21:15 – 22:12] Terminology
[22:12 – 23:44] Wrap up and suggestions
 
Links | Resources:
CES Case Studies
 
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ED Utilization Trends and Access

Behavioral health patients continue to face long emergency department (ED) stays and access challenges—particularly those with government insurance. In this episode, Sg2 expert Jen Goff joins host Jayme Zage, PhD to explore how ED utilization trends are evolving and to highlight innovative crisis care models gaining traction across the country. From mobile response teams to empath units, learn how hospitals and community partners are collaborating to deliver more effective, efficient crisis services. Jen also shares practical guidance for organizations working to strengthen their behavioral health strategies. 
 
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Optimizing Ortho Access Points

As health systems face increasing pressure to improve access and efficiency, orthopedic urgent care is an emerging focus area. In this Sg2 Perspectives episode, Sg2 experts Donnelle Jageman and Megan LaRose join host Tori Richie to explore how health systems are leveraging walk-in ortho clinics to reduce ED burden, drive downstream revenue, and capture new patients. They share real-world insights from Virtua Health’s successful Ortho Express model and discuss considerations like staffing, co-location, and billing. Tune in for actionable strategies to launch and scale orthopedic urgent care. 
 
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Tapping into NTAP

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 

 
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Savings through preference card management


Preference card management plays a critical role in improving accuracy, reducing costs, and driving efficiency across surgical services. Host LaTammy Marks, Senior Performance Improvement Program Director at Vizient, sits down with Carol Zelenkowski, System Operations Manager for Surgical Services at Main Line Health, to discuss their journey toward optimizing over 20,000 preference cards. Carol shares how her team used data to uncover cost variations, build surgeon buy-in, and achieve reduction in card volume. She also reflects on lessons learned and how these improvements are now expanding into other specialties, offering valuable insights for health systems nationwide.
 
Guest speaker:
Carol Zelenkowski, BSN, RN, CNORSystem Operations ManagerMLH Surgical Services, Main Line Corporate Center
 
Host:LaTammy Marks, MBA, BSN, RNSenior PI Program Director, Performance Improvement ProgramsVizient
 
Show notes: 
[01:01] – Main Line Health’s starting point and challenges with preference cards before joining the Vizient collaborative
[01:50] – Why Main Line Health chose to participate in the Vizient collaborative
[02:51] – How the team decided which preference cards to prioritize for review and optimization
[03:24] – Key insights uncovered in the data, including cost saving and variation trends
[04:33] – Gaining surgeon buy-in by presenting accurate preference card data
[05:35] – The measurable savings achieved and the positive impact on Main Line Health’s surgical services
[06:52] – Expanding preference card optimization to other specialties and the future of this work.
 
Links | Resources:Contacting Knowledge on the Go: picollaboratives@vizientinc.com
Unlocking savings through preference card management
Transform your perioperative supply chain
 
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Transforming the Future of COPD Care

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is climbing the priority list for health systems, driven by rising prevalence, an aging population and new therapeutic innovations. In this episode, Sg2 expert Emily Fitt joins host Trevor DaRin to explore why COPD demands renewed focus, highlight successful care models—from academic medical centers to rural programs—and discuss the role of specialty pharmacy, telemedicine, and care redesign. Listeners will gain insight into how proactive strategies can improve outcomes, reduce hospitalizations and create real value for patients and providers alike.
 
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Shaping Digital Health Strategy

In this episode of Sg2 Perspectives, host Trevor DaRin is joined by Sg2 Senior Director Andrew Rebhan to share insights from his ongoing Q&amp;A blog series with digital health leaders across the US. Together, they explore how health systems are approaching disciplined innovation, aligning IT and operations, and weighing real opportunities against hype in the AI era. Andrew also highlights surprising bright spots in rural and Midwest markets, where leaders are advancing initiatives like virtual nursing, 3D imaging and holographic visits while finding creative ways to fund and scale digital transformation. For more insights, visit the Sg2 blog to read the full series.
 
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GLN Changes You Can’t Ignore

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
 
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System of CARE™ in Action

 In this episode of Sg2 Perspectives, host Tori Richie is joined by Sg2 experts Anthony Guth and Rachael Zirkelbach to explore the System of CARE, one of the impact factors of the 2025 Impact of Change® forecast. Together, they discuss how partnerships across the continuum—post-acute, home and ambulatory—enable smarter growth, throughput, and better care coordination.
 
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Capital Spend Insights: Data that deliver smarter procurement decisions

Whether you're navigating decentralized purchasing, benchmarking spend, or trying to align capital budget system wide, the Capital Spend Insights tool was built to transform how your organization approaches capital planning. Mike Kolp, associate principal from Vizient's Capital Equipment Solutions team joins host Susan Edwards to share how health systems are using Capital Spend Insights to unlock smarter, faster and more strategic decisions.
 
Guests:
Mike Kolp, 
Associate Principal, Vizient Capital Equipment Solutions
Vizient
 
Moderator:
Susan Edwards
Marketing Communications Manager
 
Show Notes: 
[01:09 – 02:04]  The why behind Capital Spin Insights
[02:05 – 03:15]  Industry overarching trends needing solutions for capital provurement
[03:16 – 03:59]  How capital spend insights tool changes visibility traditionally exposed in the capital procurement process
[04:00 – 05:11]  How Capital Spend Insights make the quote review process better
[05:12 – 07:37]  Comparing Capital Spend Insights to what's available in the marketplace from other competitors
[07:38 – 10:22]  How Capital Spend Insights works alongside or in tandem with the other Vizient data solutions
[10:45 – 11:36]  How full fledged subscribers are they using the tool most effectively in their organizations today
[11:37 – 13:00]  Common types of projects that got clients interested in using this tool
[13:01 – 17:09]  The tool’s GPO compliance component and the pull through of budget alignments
[17:10 – 19:03]  New improvements and enhancements for the solution
[19:04 – 20:41]  Comparing Capital Spend Insights to key Competitors
[20:42 – 23:25]  Key Takaways
[23:26 – 24:19]  Next steps for people interested in the tool
[24:20 – 25:08]  Mike will be talking about the tool at the Vizient Summit
 
Links | Resources:

Link to Capital Equipment Solutions webpage: Click here
Link to Capital Spend Insights video: Click here
Capital Spend Insights fact sheet: Click here

 
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Transforming Care Through Innovation

In this episode of Sg2 Perspectives, host Tori Richie is joined by Sg2 experts Setu Shah, Kara Marlatt, PhD and Gurmeet Bawa to explore the Innovation and Technology Impact Factor from the 2025 Impact of Change® forecast. The conversation spans transformative advancements in spine, cancer, and dementia care, including the role of AI, gene therapy, and mobile imaging in shifting care closer to home. The team also unpacks the real-world barriers to adoption, from imaging capacity to change management. Tune in for a multidimensional view of how innovation will reshape health care delivery across the System of CARE™.
 
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Pediatric Forecast: Key Growth Trends

In this episode of Sg2 Perspectives, host Tori Richie is joined by Sg2 experts Rhae Ana Gamber and Dionne Dela Cruz to explore key insights from the 2025 Impact of Change® forecast for pediatric care. They discuss the shift of pediatric volumes from community hospitals to children’s hospitals, the growing demand for behavioral health services, and capacity constraints driven by innovation and workforce challenges. Learn how emerging therapeutics, gene therapies and new care models are reshaping inpatient and outpatient pediatric strategies.
 
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Inside the New Joint Commission Manual

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
 
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Sg2 Summit 2025 Recap

In this Sg2 Perspectives episode, Sg2 experts Brianna Motley and Bill Woodson join host Tori Richie to unpack key insights from the 2025 Sg2 Summit, where health care leaders explored the future of strategy, systemness, consumerism and innovation. The conversation covers rebuilding trust, integrating AI, personalizing care and shifting system priorities. Whether you attended the Summit or are catching up, tune in for strategic takeaways and examples of where health systems are making real progress.
 
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System quality structures

Quality and clinical outcomes improve when healthcare systems are built on strong and cohesive quality structures. Dr. Matthew McCambridge, Chief Quality Officer at Lehigh Valley Health Network, joins host Amber Hanser to explore findings from a Vizient benchmarking survey that reveals the positive impact of system quality executives on clinical performance. He shares practical strategies for aligning governance and organizational priorities highlighting how leading through influence can strengthen both clinical excellence and financial stability.
 
Speaker: Matthew McCambridge, MD, Senior Vice President and Chief QualityPatient Safety and Acute Care Continuum OfficerLVHN
 
Host: Amber Hanser, MHA, CPHQSenior Director, ProgramsPerformance Improvement ProgramsVizient
Show Notes:[1:20] – Defining the Chief Quality Officer role and how a hub and spoke model supports large health systems[3:02] – Ways to assess if a system’s structure can sustain strong clinical performance[4:13] – Ensuring integration success and the role of quality subcommittees in governance[5:41] – Departments and functions that report under quality[8:10] – How quality executives collaborate with peers across the industry[11:04] – Leading with data rather than drama to drive improvement
 
Links | Resources:Contacting Knowledge on the Go: picollaboratives@vizientinc.com
 
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Forecasting Chronic Disease and Behavioral Health Trends

Chronic disease and behavioral health remain major drivers of demand across the health care system, as highlighted in our 2025 Impact of Change® forecast. This week, host Tori Richie talks with Sg2 service line experts Emily Fitt and Jen Goff about rising prevalence, shifting patient expectations and how societal stressors are reshaping demand. They also discuss care model innovation, behavioral health access and the growing role of pharmaceutical and digital tools in long-term patient management.
 
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Theranostics: A New Weapon Against Cancer - Part 2

Theranostics is a groundbreaking topic that's reshaping how we diagnose and treat cancer. It's a cutting-edge approach in cancer care, combining diagnosing and treating cancer using the same molecular tools. Theranostics has the spotlight because it's delivering on a promise we've been chasing for years in cancer care, truly personalized targeted treatment with fewer side effects than traditional options.
 
Guests:
Lindsay Williams, MBA, CNMT, R.T.(N)(CT)(ARRT)
Pharmacy Sourcing Portfolio Executive
Vizient
 
Setu Shah, MPH
Sr. Associate, Intelligence
Sg2
 
Janna Laton, MBA, CNMT, NMTCB(CT), R.T.(R)(N)(MR)(ARRT)
Independent Contributor and SME
 
Host:
Adam Fairbourn, MBA, CNMT
Senior Director, Contract Services
Vizient, Capital Equipment Solutions
 
Show Notes: 
[00:48 – 01:55] What it takes for a healthcare organization to implement Theranostics
[01:56 – 04:04] Success stories solving for some of the access and workflow issues
[04:05 – 05:11] Education and training programs needed to support demand for nuclear medicine specialists and technologists
[05:12 – 07:54] What's driving that growth in the field
[07:55 – 09:34] What’s most exciting about theranostics over the next five to 10 years
[09:34– 10:08] Will Theranostics become the standard of care for more types of cancer than we see today
[10:09 – 11:30] The future of cancer care and Theranostics
[11:30– 12:03] What Vizient is doing on the Theranostics front
 
Links | Resources:
Vizient article - https://www.vizientinc.com/insights/diagnostic-imaging
Sg2 Perspectives Podcast: Transforming Cancer Care Delivery
Sg2 Perspectives Podcast: Cell and Gene Therapy in Practice
 
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Partners in Prevention: A Unified Approach to Drug Diversion

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
 
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Personalizing Stroke Care and Recovery

In this episode of Sg2 Perspectives, Dr Pam Duncan from Wake Forest Atrium Health joins Sg2 neurosciences expert Katherine Zentner and host Trevor DaRin to discuss how stroke care is evolving beyond the hospital stay. A leader in post-acute stroke recovery, Dr Duncan shares how her digitally enabled solution, Stroke CP, supports scalable, personalized care. They explore how transitional care, workforce efficiency and payer partnerships can reframe stroke as a chronic condition—and why digital tools are essential for future recovery.
 
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The Forecast Behind Aging Demand

In this episode of Sg2 Perspectives, host Tori Richie is joined by Sg2 experts Joshua Aaker and Katherine Zentner to explore how demographic shifts, particularly an aging population, are shaping cardiovascular and neurosciences service line demand. Drawing on insights from the 2025 Impact of Change® forecast, the discussion highlights care stratification, team-based models, and new approaches to programmatic design that health systems are using to address growing utilization and acuity. The conversation also underscores how traditional service line models must evolve to meet both current pressures and future patient needs.
 
We are always excited to get ideas and feedback from our listeners. You can reach us at sg2perspectives@sg2.com, or visit the Sg2 company page on LinkedIn.

Beyond Humira: What’s Driving Drug Spend Now?

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
 
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Theranostics: A New Weapon Against Cancer - Part 1

Theranostics is a groundbreaking topic that's reshaping how we diagnose and treat cancer. It's a cutting-edge approach in cancer care, combining diagnosing and treating cancer using the same molecular tools. Theranostics has the spotlight because it's delivering on a promise we've been chasing for years in cancer care, truly personalized targeted treatment with fewer side effects than traditional options.
 
Guests:
Lindsay Williams, MBA, CNMT, R.T.(N)(CT)(ARRT)
Pharmacy Sourcing Portfolio Executive
Vizient
 
Setu Shah, MPH
Sr. Associate, Intelligence
Sg2
 
Janna Laton, MBA, CNMT, NMTCB(CT), R.T.(R)(N)(MR)(ARRT)
Independent Contributor and SME
 
Host:
Adam Fairbourn, MBA, CNMT
Senior Director, Contract Services
Vizient, Capital Equipment Solutions
 
Show Notes: 
[00:45] Defining Theranostics and why it’s getting attention
[02:10] “See what you treat and treat what you see” captures the power of Theranostics
[03:10] Why neuroendocrine tumors and prostate cancer are particularly well suited for this approach
[03:50] Prostate specific membrane antigen or PSMA targeted imaging and treatment work and results
[05:28] How Theranostics compares with more traditional cancer treatments in terms of precision and side effects
 
Links | Resources:
Vizient article - https://www.vizientinc.com/insights/diagnostic-imaging
Sg2 Perspectives Podcast: Transforming Cancer Care Delivery
Sg2 Perspectives Podcast: Cell and Gene Therapy in Practice
 
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Unpacking OBBA’s Policy Shifts

Congress recently passed the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBA), reshaping Medicaid eligibility, financing, and rural health care transformation. In this Sg2 Perspectives episode, host Trevor DaRin is joined by Vizient advocacy experts Darren Webb and Alexandria Icenhower, along with Sg2’s Ryota Terada, to decode OBBA’s key provisions—from new work requirements and payment changes to rural funding programs—and to explore the strategic implications for hospitals and health systems. Tune in for a concise, expert-led policy breakdown that prepares health care leaders for what’s ahead.
 
We are always excited to get ideas and feedback from our listeners. You can reach us at sg2perspectives@sg2.com, or visit the Sg2 company page on LinkedIn.

AI in healthcare

AI is advancing rapidly in the healthcare space, raising important questions about how it will be used responsibly and effectively. Host Courtney Furrow White is joined by Sarah Pollet and Julia Bongiorno from UCSF to explore the evolving role of AI in clinical environments. Together, they break down the development of UCSF’s IMPACC framework, a platform designed to evaluate and guide enterprise AI implementation. The conversation dives into what it takes to make AI safe, reliable, and trustworthy, not only for patients, but for the frontline staff who rely on these tools.
 
Guest speakers:
Julia Bongiorno, PMP, MSHCHealth AI Program Supervisor (Interim)UCSF Health
 
Sarah Pollet, MPHProgram DirectorUCSF AI Impact &amp; Monitoring (IMPACC)
 
Host:Courtney Furrow White MPM, RNSenior Director, Performance Improvement ProgramsVizient
 
Show notes: [1:47] Overview of UCSF’s AI I-M-P-A-C-C framework and how it informs future deployments.[3:02] UCSF’s approach to AI governance emphasizes safety, ethics and active research.[4:03] What it takes to ensure AI tools are reliable and clinically trusted.[6:41] Providers seek AI tools that reduce cognitive burden and improve workflows.[10:43] Educating patients on AI while reflecting on tools that failed to deliver.[13:01] How AI is shaping the nurse experience through practical tool integration.[15:44] Advice for other organizations on implementing AI responsibly and effectively.
 
Links | Resources:Contacting Knowledge on the Go: picollaboratives@vizientinc.com
 
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Forecasting Consumer Care Trends

How will Amazon-style convenience and a shaky economy reshape physical therapy, orthopedics and post-acute care? Host Tori Richie talks with Sg2 experts Donnelle Jageman and Nikita Arora about the “Economy &amp; Consumerism” impact factor from this year’s Impact of Change® Forecast. The trio unpacks the surge in at-home and direct-to-consumer PT/OT, the growing clout of price-sensitive patients, and why care orchestration can transform one therapy visit into years of loyalty.
 
We are always excited to get ideas and feedback from our listeners. You can reach us at sg2perspectives@sg2.com, or visit the Sg2 company page on LinkedIn.

Let’s fix this: 2024 drug shortage survey results

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 &amp; Stewardship
Vizient Center for Pharmacy Practice Excellence
 
Nikola Markoski, Pharm.D, MBA
Director, Pharmacy Sourcing Strategic Solutions &amp; Analytics
Vizient
 
Host: 
Katie Kortie, Pharm.D, MHA, BCPS, BCCCP
Vice President, Strategy &amp; 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

 
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Cell and Gene Therapy in Practice

In this episode of Sg2 Perspectives, Jayme Zage, PhD speaks with leaders from the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), Katherine Helbig, MS, LCGC, AVP of Research Strategy and Accelerator Programs, and Dan Fields, JD, SVP and Chief Strategy Officer, about the evolving landscape of cell and gene therapy. They share compelling patient stories and outline the operational and strategic infrastructure needed to deliver these groundbreaking treatments. From CAR T-cell therapies to life-changing gene therapies for chronic conditions, CHOP’s commitment to innovation and sustainability offers insights for organizations looking to enter this dynamic space.
 
We are always excited to get ideas and feedback from our listeners. You can reach us at sg2perspectives@sg2.com, or visit the Sg2 company page on LinkedIn.

Edge Perspectives Podcast