Here are the top stories from the last week:
Industry Updates
US Accuses Health Insurers, Brokers of Medicare Advantage Kickback Scheme
The U.S. Department of Justice accused three of the nation’s largest health insurers of paying hundreds of millions of dollars in kickbacks to brokers in exchange for steering patients into the insurers’ Medicare Advantage plans. Read article »
Kevin Host Celebrates Pharmacy’s Vital Role, Urges Bold Action for the Future
Kevin Host, SVP of pharmacy at Walmart, calls for pharmacy benefit manager (PBM) reform and greater federal recognition of pharmacists’ roles. He highlights the closure of nearly 6,000 pharmacies due to PBM practices and urges Congress to act to protect patient access to care. Read article »
Campaign Aims to Raise Awareness About CDC Recommendations for Pneumococcal Pneumonia
The American Lung Association is raising awareness about updated pneumococcal vaccine guidelines, emphasizing prevention and patient education for at-risk populations. Read article »
Adult RSV-ARI Linked to Higher Death Risk and Health Care Costs
New research shows adults with RSV-ARI face significantly higher mortality and health complications, emphasizing the need for targeted vaccination strategies. Read article »
Researchers Call for Better Risk Stratification Methods in Older Individuals with Hypercholesterolemia
Experts provide guidance on managing high cholesterol in adults over 75, emphasizing personalized care and shared decision-making for optimal outcomes. Read article »
PrimaryOne Health Opens Retail and Specialty Pharmacy
PrimaryOne Health’s new retail and specialty pharmacy in Columbus, Ohio, offers services such as prescription management, home delivery, clinical counseling, and health screenings. Read article »
WalletHub Study Looks at Drug Use by State in 2025
The study compares U.S. states based on metrics like arrest and overdose rates, opioid prescriptions, and drug testing laws. Read article »
NASP to Congress: Do More to Protect Senior Access to Specialty Medications
NASP opposes current legislation affecting specialty pharmacy but is willing to work with lawmakers to address concerns. Read article »
Drug & Technology Updates
FDA Approves Atzumi, Nasal Powder Formulation of DHE, for Acute Treatment of Migraine
In clinical trials, the dihydroergotamine (DHE) nasal powder had favorable safety profiles and rapid pain relief in patients with migraine with or without aura. Read article »
Camber Releases Phenylephrine Hydrochloride Injection, USP
Camber has launched Phenylephrine Hydrochloride Injection, USP, for treating clinically important hypotension due to vasodilation during anesthesia. Read article »