Dispense Times Magazine – March–April 2026 Issue – Pharmacy’s Next Era Starts Now

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In this issue: Mel Chancey joins us for a conversation on second chances, preventive care, and the pharmacist’s role in what comes next. We also explore how personalization became pharmacy’s best business model in Made to Order, break down The GLP 1 Showdown from TrumpRx and compounding crackdowns to the new era of drug pricing, and look at The Appeal Advantage, including how PBM reform laws can turn into recovered revenue. Plus, we examine why every pharmacy should be prescribing birth control, and spotlight The Pharmacy Top 50 Awards 2025.
Compounding Pharmacy

FDA Crackdown Ends the Shortage Loophole: What the New GLP-1 Compounding Rules Mean for Pharmacies

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The FDA has closed the shortage loophole that fueled the compounded GLP-1 boom. With semaglutide and tirzepatide off the shortage list, compounding pharmacies and telehealth platforms face a new era of enforcement, audits, and market consolidation.
Community

Effective Marketing Strategies for Independent Pharmacies

0
Marketing is essential for patient growth. By leveraging digital...
PBM & Reimbursement

Understanding the Impact of PBMs on Independent Pharmacies

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PBMs play a significant role in the pharmacy ecosystem....
Innovation

Leaders in Specialty Pharmacy Share How Transformation is Accelerating

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This article highlights key insights from industry leaders at the 2026 Asembia meeting, emphasizing the rapid transformation of specialty pharmacy. It explores how advancements in AI, interoperability, and digital navigation are reshaping patient care and operational strategies. Independent pharmacy owners will gain valuable perspectives on adapting to these changes to maintain high-touch care while leveraging high-tech capabilities.
Innovation

From Compliance to Capability: Rethinking Continuing Education in Pharmacy

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This article challenges independent pharmacy owners and staff to rethink continuing education (CE) from a simple compliance checkbox to a strategic investment in professional capability. It highlights how targeted CE can empower both pharmacists and technicians to confidently expand clinical services and improve patient care. Ultimately, the piece argues that relevant, team-based education is essential for pharmacies aiming to stay competitive and meet evolving healthcare demands.
Innovation

The Evolution of the Pharmacy Switch in 2026

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The role of the pharmacy switch has evolved significantly, shifting from a simple neutral data router to an active participant that influences claims through AI pre-edits, copay modifications, and manufacturer eVouchers. Independent pharmacies must understand switch ownership, data flow, and hidden costs to protect their margins and effectively manage claim outcomes in 2026.

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Community

Effective Marketing Strategies for Independent Pharmacies

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Marketing is essential for patient growth. By leveraging digital...
Innovation

The Pharmacy Is Not the Asset: Why Clinical Expertise Is the Future

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This article argues that the true value of pharmacy lies in the clinical expertise of the pharmacist, not the physical brick-and-mortar location. It urges pharmacists to pivot away from a dying geographic model dominated by PBMs and instead embrace new roles, such as serving as fractional clinical experts for self-funded employers.
Featured

How Nicolette Mathey Is Forging a Better Future for Independent Pharmacy

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From AtriumX to DOTTI, Nicolette Mathey is helping independent pharmacy owners build smarter, more profitable growth strategies through community, compounding, and prescriber-focused marketing.
Legal

The FairRx Act: How Tennessee is Exposing the PBM Playbook

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Tennessee's FairRx Act is exposing CVS Health's aggressive tactics to maintain its PBM dominance, including dark-money ads and unauthorized patient texts. The legislation aims to prevent PBMs from owning the pharmacies they reimburse, creating a potential model for nationwide reform. Independent pharmacies can learn from this powerful coalition of lawmakers, regulators, and pharmacists fighting back against vertically integrated healthcare empires.
Clinical Services

5 Benefits of Telepharmacy for Independent Pharmacies

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Telepharmacy is bridging the gap in healthcare access. For...
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Inside This Issue

In this issue: Mel Chancey joins us for a conversation on second chances, preventive care, and the pharmacist’s role in what comes next.

We also explore how personalization became pharmacy’s best business model in Made to Order, break down The GLP 1 Showdown from TrumpRx and compounding crackdowns to the new era of drug pricing, and look at The Appeal Advantage, including how PBM reform laws can turn into recovered revenue.

Plus, we examine why every pharmacy should be prescribing birth control, and spotlight The Pharmacy Top 50 Awards 2025.

Click to Read

Headlines

FDA Crackdown Ends the Shortage Loophole: What the New GLP-1 Compounding Rules Mean for Pharmacies

Compounding Pharmacy Josh -
The FDA has closed the shortage loophole that fueled the compounded GLP-1 boom. With semaglutide and tirzepatide off the shortage list, compounding pharmacies and telehealth platforms face a new era of enforcement, audits, and market consolidation.

Effective Marketing Strategies for Independent Pharmacies

Community Josh -
Marketing is essential for patient growth. By leveraging digital tools and community engagement, independent pharmacies can build strong, loyal...

Understanding the Impact of PBMs on Independent Pharmacies

PBM & Reimbursement Josh -
PBMs play a significant role in the pharmacy ecosystem. Understanding their impact is crucial for independent pharmacy owners seeking...

Leaders in Specialty Pharmacy Share How Transformation is Accelerating

Innovation Josh -
This article highlights key insights from industry leaders at the 2026 Asembia meeting, emphasizing the rapid transformation of specialty pharmacy. It explores how advancements in AI, interoperability, and digital navigation are reshaping patient care and operational strategies. Independent pharmacy owners will gain valuable perspectives on adapting to these changes to maintain high-touch care while leveraging high-tech capabilities.

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Amina Abubakar

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Clinical

From Compliance to Capability: Rethinking Continuing Education in Pharmacy

0
This article challenges independent pharmacy owners and staff to rethink continuing education (CE) from a simple compliance checkbox to a strategic investment in professional capability. It highlights how targeted CE can empower both pharmacists and technicians to confidently expand clinical services and improve patient care. Ultimately, the piece argues that relevant, team-based education is essential for pharmacies aiming to stay competitive and meet evolving healthcare demands.

The Evolution of the Pharmacy Switch in 2026

0
The role of the pharmacy switch has evolved significantly, shifting from a simple neutral data router to an active participant that influences claims through AI pre-edits, copay modifications, and manufacturer eVouchers. Independent pharmacies must understand switch ownership, data flow, and hidden costs to protect their margins and effectively manage claim outcomes in 2026.

DT Vaccine: Clinical Overview and Strategic Opportunity for Community Pharmacies

0
The DT (Diphtheria and Tetanus) vaccine is an important alternative for children who cannot receive the pertussis component, representing a key clinical service opportunity for independent pharmacies. By collaborating with pediatric physicians and community partners, pharmacies can offer this essential immunization while generating meaningful revenue.

Dispense Disruptors: Why Adapting Fast is the Future of Pharmacy

0
The pharmacy industry is undergoing rapid changes with AI automation and telehealth redefining patient care. Early adopters are building scalable systems to stay ahead, while those who wait risk falling behind. Embracing intentional innovation is crucial for independent pharmacies to adapt and thrive.

Community

From Compliance to Capability: Rethinking Continuing Education in Pharmacy

0
This article challenges independent pharmacy owners and staff to rethink continuing education (CE) from a simple compliance checkbox to a strategic investment in professional capability. It highlights how targeted CE can empower both pharmacists and technicians to confidently expand clinical services and improve patient care. Ultimately, the piece argues that relevant, team-based education is essential for pharmacies aiming to stay competitive and meet evolving healthcare demands.

The Evolution of the Pharmacy Switch in 2026

0
The role of the pharmacy switch has evolved significantly, shifting from a simple neutral data router to an active participant that influences claims through AI pre-edits, copay modifications, and manufacturer eVouchers. Independent pharmacies must understand switch ownership, data flow, and hidden costs to protect their margins and effectively manage claim outcomes in 2026.

DT Vaccine: Clinical Overview and Strategic Opportunity for Community Pharmacies

0
The DT (Diphtheria and Tetanus) vaccine is an important alternative for children who cannot receive the pertussis component, representing a key clinical service opportunity for independent pharmacies. By collaborating with pediatric physicians and community partners, pharmacies can offer this essential immunization while generating meaningful revenue.

Dispense Disruptors: Why Adapting Fast is the Future of Pharmacy

0
The pharmacy industry is undergoing rapid changes with AI automation and telehealth redefining patient care. Early adopters are building scalable systems to stay ahead, while those who wait risk falling behind. Embracing intentional innovation is crucial for independent pharmacies to adapt and thrive.

Operations

From Compliance to Capability: Rethinking Continuing Education in Pharmacy

0
This article challenges independent pharmacy owners and staff to rethink continuing education (CE) from a simple compliance checkbox to a strategic investment in professional capability. It highlights how targeted CE can empower both pharmacists and technicians to confidently expand clinical services and improve patient care. Ultimately, the piece argues that relevant, team-based education is essential for pharmacies aiming to stay competitive and meet evolving healthcare demands.

The Evolution of the Pharmacy Switch in 2026

0
The role of the pharmacy switch has evolved significantly, shifting from a simple neutral data router to an active participant that influences claims through AI pre-edits, copay modifications, and manufacturer eVouchers. Independent pharmacies must understand switch ownership, data flow, and hidden costs to protect their margins and effectively manage claim outcomes in 2026.

DT Vaccine: Clinical Overview and Strategic Opportunity for Community Pharmacies

0
The DT (Diphtheria and Tetanus) vaccine is an important alternative for children who cannot receive the pertussis component, representing a key clinical service opportunity for independent pharmacies. By collaborating with pediatric physicians and community partners, pharmacies can offer this essential immunization while generating meaningful revenue.

Dispense Disruptors: Why Adapting Fast is the Future of Pharmacy

0
The pharmacy industry is undergoing rapid changes with AI automation and telehealth redefining patient care. Early adopters are building scalable systems to stay ahead, while those who wait risk falling behind. Embracing intentional innovation is crucial for independent pharmacies to adapt and thrive.

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Recent Posts

FDA Crackdown Ends the Shortage Loophole: What the New GLP-1 Compounding Rules Mean for Pharmacies

Compounding Pharmacy Josh -
The FDA has closed the shortage loophole that fueled the compounded GLP-1 boom. With semaglutide and tirzepatide off the shortage list, compounding pharmacies and telehealth platforms face a new era of enforcement, audits, and market consolidation.

Effective Marketing Strategies for Independent Pharmacies

Community Josh -
Marketing is essential for patient growth. By leveraging digital tools and community engagement, independent pharmacies can build strong, loyal...

Understanding the Impact of PBMs on Independent Pharmacies

PBM & Reimbursement Josh -
PBMs play a significant role in the pharmacy ecosystem. Understanding their impact is crucial for independent pharmacy owners seeking...

Leaders in Specialty Pharmacy Share How Transformation is Accelerating

Innovation Josh -
This article highlights key insights from industry leaders at the 2026 Asembia meeting, emphasizing the rapid transformation of specialty pharmacy. It explores how advancements in AI, interoperability, and digital navigation are reshaping patient care and operational strategies. Independent pharmacy owners will gain valuable perspectives on adapting to these changes to maintain high-touch care while leveraging high-tech capabilities.

From Compliance to Capability: Rethinking Continuing Education in Pharmacy

Innovation Josh -
This article challenges independent pharmacy owners and staff to rethink continuing education (CE) from a simple compliance checkbox to a strategic investment in professional capability. It highlights how targeted CE can empower both pharmacists and technicians to confidently expand clinical services and improve patient care. Ultimately, the piece argues that relevant, team-based education is essential for pharmacies aiming to stay competitive and meet evolving healthcare demands.

The Evolution of the Pharmacy Switch in 2026

Innovation Josh -
The role of the pharmacy switch has evolved significantly, shifting from a simple neutral data router to an active participant that influences claims through AI pre-edits, copay modifications, and manufacturer eVouchers. Independent pharmacies must understand switch ownership, data flow, and hidden costs to protect their margins and effectively manage claim outcomes in 2026.

DT Vaccine: Clinical Overview and Strategic Opportunity for Community Pharmacies

Clinical Josh -
The DT (Diphtheria and Tetanus) vaccine is an important alternative for children who cannot receive the pertussis component, representing a key clinical service opportunity for independent pharmacies. By collaborating with pediatric physicians and community partners, pharmacies can offer this essential immunization while generating meaningful revenue.

Dispense Disruptors: Why Adapting Fast is the Future of Pharmacy

Innovation Josh -
The pharmacy industry is undergoing rapid changes with AI automation and telehealth redefining patient care. Early adopters are building scalable systems to stay ahead, while those who wait risk falling behind. Embracing intentional innovation is crucial for independent pharmacies to adapt and thrive.

The Pharmacy Is Not the Asset: Why Clinical Expertise Is the Future

Innovation Josh -
This article argues that the true value of pharmacy lies in the clinical expertise of the pharmacist, not the physical brick-and-mortar location. It urges pharmacists to pivot away from a dying geographic model dominated by PBMs and instead embrace new roles, such as serving as fractional clinical experts for self-funded employers.

The FDA’s Crackdown on Telemedicine: Key Violations in Compounded Weight Loss Drug Marketing

Legal Josh -
The FDA is cracking down on telemedicine companies and online retailers for illegally marketing compounded weight loss drugs like semaglutide. This article details key violations, including false claims of FDA approval and misleading use of "generic" terminology, helping independent pharmacies understand the regulatory risks. Pharmacy owners can use this information to ensure their compounding and marketing practices remain strictly compliant with FDA guidelines.

The Independent Pharmacy Guide to Target Marketing and Patient Personas

Marketing Josh -
This comprehensive guide introduces the concept of patient personas to help independent pharmacies move beyond generic marketing and build targeted, relationship-driven strategies. By understanding specific customer archetypes, from the time-sensitive parent to the health-conscious supplement buyer, pharmacy owners can tailor their services, communication, and operational focus to drive both patient loyalty and high-margin revenue. Implementing this segmentation framework allows community pharmacies to effectively compete against chains and mail-order giants by leaning into their unique advantage: personalized care.

The FairRx Act: How Tennessee is Exposing the PBM Playbook

Legal Josh -
Tennessee's FairRx Act is exposing CVS Health's aggressive tactics to maintain its PBM dominance, including dark-money ads and unauthorized patient texts. The legislation aims to prevent PBMs from owning the pharmacies they reimburse, creating a potential model for nationwide reform. Independent pharmacies can learn from this powerful coalition of lawmakers, regulators, and pharmacists fighting back against vertically integrated healthcare empires.
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