Analysis: ACOs are rapidly taking shape
The Affordable Care Act makes headlines almost daily about health insurance exchanges and impacts 10 million to 15 million Americans. Accountable care organizations (ACOs) rarely, if ever, make any headlines.
Retail News
Cardinal Health serves up MTM Solution for payers
Cardinal Health has launched the Medication Therapy Management Solution to help payers improve their plan members’ quality of care and their performance on the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Five-Star Quality Ratings System.
Walgreens appoints Reed as general counsel
Walgreen Co. has promoted Jan Stern Reed to general counsel and named Thomas Sabatino as chief legal and administrative officer. Walgreens said Wednesday that Reed, previously corporate vice president and deputy general counsel, will now lead the legal division at the company.
CVS, Rite Aid launch Medicare Part D info programs
With the annual enrollment period set to begin, two of the nation’s biggest drug store chains are announcing programs to help their senior customers compare Medicare Part D prescription drug plans.
NACDS speaks up for pharmacist-provided vaccines
The National Association of Chain Drug Stores has gone to bat for the value of pharmacist-delivered immunization services in boosting national vaccination rates. NACDS said Thursday that it submitted a written statement in prelude to a forum hosted by Rep. Renee Ellmers (R., N.C.
Former Shoppers Drug Mart CFO joins 99¢ Only Stores
Former Shoppers Drug Mart chief financial officer Brad Lukow has been appointed in the same role at 99¢ Only Stores. The extreme value retailer said Monday that as CFO of 99¢ Only Stores, Lukow will be responsible for overseeing finance, accounting and treasury.
Sales at Jean Coutu Group edge up in 2Q
Jean Coutu Group saw its retail store network and corporate sales rise slightly for the fiscal 2015 second quarter. The Canadian drug chain’s net earnings for the quarter, which ended Aug. 30, were in line with the consensus estimate of analysts.
Walgreens extends reach as Part D preferred pharmacy
Walgreen Co. has more than doubled its preferred pharmacy network relationships with national Medicare Part D plan sponsors for 2015. Walgreens said Tuesday that for the 2015 plan year it will be a preferred pharmacy for nine plan sponsors, compared with three in the prior coverage period.
Rexall helps deliver life-saving vaccines
This flu season, Rexall is partnering with Amref Health Africa to launch "Shot For Shot," a campaign to provide life-saving vaccinations to children.
APhA campaign touts med sync programs
The American Pharmacists Association Foundation has launched Align My Refills, a campaign that provides resources and points patients and caregivers to their local pharmacist for help in maintaining medication regimens.
Haggen becomes bigger pharmacy player
A major acquisition by regional food and drug chain Haggen Inc. will not only expand its store count nearly tenfold but also its number of pharmacies. Haggen will boost its pharmacy count from less than 20 to more than 100 with the store acquisition.
Sam’s Club offers flu shot price match
Sam’s Club has initiated a price match program for flu vaccinations at its pharmacies. The Walmart warehouse club chain on Monday announced the availability of seasonal flu shots for the 2014-15 flu season for members and nonmembers at its 599 pharmacy locations nationwide.
Walgreens spurs app integration of Balance Rewards API
Walgreen Co. is holding a developer contest to promote integration of the application program interface (API) for its Balance Rewards customer loyalty program. The API enables users of other apps to earn Balance Rewards loyalty program points for making healthy choices.
PTCB modifies recertification requirements for pharmacy techs
Starting next year, the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) will implement two changes in recertification requirements for Certified Pharmacy Technicians (CPhTs).
Study: Carve-out Rx benefits offer advantages in cost, care
Pharmacy benefits included as part of an employer’s total health insurance package, known as a "carve-in" model, provide cost savings and more effective care, according to a study by the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association and Prime Therapeutics.
CVS research examines rising specialty drug costs
Research from CVS Health highlights the sharp growth in spending for specialty medications, which is far outpacing expenditures on traditional prescription drugs.