Rethinking your approach to pharmacy services
Rising pharmaceutical expenses, persistent shortages, shifting regulations, workforce hurdles and the growth of non-acute care are just some of the mounting pressures facing today’s pharmacy decision-makers.
To stay positioned for success, pharmacy must move beyond cost containment and embed itself in broader system planning. Success depends on close alignment with financial and clinical leadership, as well as data-driven methods that strengthen care delivery and sustain momentum.
Across distribution, policy, partnerships and insights, the Pharmacy team at HealthTrust helps members navigate this dynamic landscape. Three examples are featured here.
1 | Strengthening pharmacy distribution networks
HealthTrust’s five-year pharmacy distribution contract, valued at nearly $17B, is the largest in our portfolio and a cornerstone of our pharmacy strategy. The agreement aids both acute and non-acute providers, ensuring a reliable flow of medications and reinforcing stability across the continuum of care.
Strategic distribution:
- Assists health systems in planning
- Reduces variation
- Strengthens overall performance
Distribution has shifted from a logistical role to a strategic lever for controlling rising drug expenditures, particularly as specialty therapies account for a growing share of pharmacy spend. A strong procurement framework allows health systems to balance the goals of both managing resource allocations and capturing value through more efficient purchasing.
Resiliency is equally critical. Ongoing shortages, global manufacturing dependencies and supply chain disruptions highlight the need for stable, flexible networks. By leveraging HealthTrust’s contract, organizations can reduce volatility, align distribution with enterprise approaches and protect patient care during uncertain times.
“A strong distribution network isn’t just about moving products—it preserves access to critical medicines for patients, utilizes distributors’ evolving core competencies & leverages trusted supplier relationships. Member value is maximized based on emerging needs as well as changes in continuum of care. Should disruptions occur, it has the flexibility to adapt.”
Troy Larsgard, MPA—Senior Director, Pharmacy Contracts, HealthTrust
2 | Navigating 340B complexity
HealthTrust recently hosted members for a 340B Summit, bringing together covered entities, manufacturers and wholesalers to discuss the evolving 340B landscape. Nearly 30 participants joined panels and breakout sessions on timely topics during the two-day event in San Antonio.
Few programs are as vital or as intricate as 340B. Ongoing legislative and regulatory activity continues to reshape eligibility, rebate models and compliance requirements, creating significant uncertainty for hospitals and health systems.
Benefits of effective 340B program management:
- Mitigate rising drug prices
- Stabilize operations
- Reinvest savings into patient care
- Sustain services that might otherwise be at risk
“Despite its challenges, the 340B program is essential for providing a healthcare safety net for vulnerable patient populations.”
Chris Yoder, MHA, BBM—Director, 340B Program, HealthTrust
For pharmacy leaders, the challenge is twofold: keeping pace with shifting standards while also realizing the program’s monetary and operational advantages. Success often hinges on strategies such as educating staff and executives, fostering collaboration across clinical and financial teams, and partnering with trusted third-party administrators.
When managed effectively, 340B does far more than ensure compliance. Strong oversight can offset rising drug costs and stabilize operations, allowing entities to reinvest savings into patient care and sustain essential services that might otherwise be at risk. In today’s economic climate, the program remains a lifeline for both organizations and the communities they serve.
3 | Enhancing the PBM experience
HealthTrust recently renewed its agreement with OptumRx as the exclusive pharmacy care services partner for its membership. The collaboration pairs OptumRx’s national network and home delivery capabilities with enhanced resources, including mobile technology, dedicated service departments and performance analytics—providing members greater visibility into utilization and overall spend.
On the care management side, the HIV Personalized Rx Counselor Program delivers targeted pharmacist support to improve adherence, reduce risks and close care gaps. Optum Specialty Pharmacy Solutions—including Specialty Benefit Optimization, Specialty Control Utilization Management and Split Fill programs—provide further oversight by shifting drugs, when appropriate, from the medical to the pharmacy benefit, tightening clinical controls and reducing waste for patients beginning advanced therapies.
“Through our renewed agreement with OptumRx, HealthTrust secures a PBM partnership that delivers unmatched advantages for our members. When you read the news about PBMs, everyone is asking for what we already provide. We’re committed to working every day to deliver that value.”
Young Fried, PharmD—Senior Vice President, Business Development & Pharmacy, HealthTrust
ENHANCE YOUR PHARMACY PROGRAM Contact your HealthTrust Account Manager or email askIHP@healthtrustpg.com to start the discussion.
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