Benzer Vaccination Programs: Great Shots for Quality “One-on-One” Time with Your Pharmacist

August 19, 2019 | 289 views

Like the kick-off of the NFL in the fall, the flu season may still be months away, but it’s always a good idea to circle a date on your calendar for getting up-to-date with immunizations. That, of course, goes double if you’re aged 59-or-older. It’s never comforting news to learn that your sensitivity to various strains of the disease only grows over time, but it’s something everyone needs to account for. The basic benefits of getting a flu shot are well-established. Yet, what you may not know is that Benzer also offers clinical immunization services for pneumonia and the shingles. Both can cause severe discomfort, and even death, in those at risk of developing complications or unexpected consequences as new, more volatile subspecies crisscross their way from country-to-country, state-to-state, and person-to-person.

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Nutricia North America

Nutricia is a global health company that leads the development and use of advanced medical nutrition for specialized care. Nutricia products and services transform the daily lives of millions of infants, children, adults and aging seniors. We are dedicated to providing quality formulas and medical foods for the treatment of food protein allergies and rare genetic and metabolic disorders.

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Pharma Tech

How long will the world wait for the next pandemic of antimicrobial resistance before we act?

Article | September 29, 2022

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has become an increasingly serious global health problem in recent years. World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that more than 700,000 people die each year due to drug-resistant infections, and the number is expected to increase in the coming years. How does antimicrobial resistance emerge? Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites change over time and no longer respond to medicines. It makes infections harder to treat and increases the risk of disease, severe illness, and death. When we use antibiotics, some bacteria die, but resistant bacteria can survive and even multiply. The overuse of antibiotics and substandard antibiotics make resistant bacteria more common. So, the more we use antibiotics, the more chances bacteria have to become resistant to them. The rise in AMR is caused by multiple factors including the misuse and overuse of antibiotics by humans as well as in livestock and agriculture. Although these are the main drivers in the development of drug-resistant pathogens, the emergence of substandard and falsified antibiotics is another lesser-known, huge contributory factor. Even though AMR is a leading cause of death around the world, it is tracked most closely in clinical high-income settings and developed countries. Unfortunately, this is not the case in low and middle-income countries, where the highest burden is in low-resource settings and low-and middle-income countries (LMICs). These countries are disproportionately affected, in part due to the high burden of communicable diseases. Consequences to human health of AMR AMR poses significant risks to human health, resulting in prolonged and more severe infections, extended hospitalizations, and increased healthcare expenses. It can also lead to an increased risk of death, as an infection may become untreatable. Additionally, it can reduce the effectiveness of medicines and treatments, making it more difficult to manage existing medical conditions. It is even more concerning that it can lead to the emergence of new, more dangerous strains of bacteria, viruses, and other microbes. This would mean medical procedures, such as surgery, including caesarean sections or hip replacements, cancer chemotherapy, and organ transplantation, will become riskier. Counterfeit medicines and antibiotics: Antibiotics are the most counterfeited medicines in the world, as they account for 28% of global counterfeit medicines. Substandard and falsified antibiotics are medicines that do not meet the quality standards set by regulatory authorities. Counterfeit antibiotics are estimated at 5% of the global antibiotic market. These medicines are often of inferior quality or contain incorrect ingredients or incorrect amounts of active ingredients. They may also contain toxic contaminants or be expired, posing serious consequences for patients. Sadly, counterfeit antibiotics are mostly found in LMICs due to a lack of regulation and enforcement, as well as a lack of access to quality healthcare. In many of these countries, the demand for antibiotics is higher than the supply, and counterfeit antibiotics are seen as a cheaper and more accessible alternative. Furthermore, there is a lack of awareness around the dangers of taking counterfeit antibiotics, and there is a lack of resources for health authorities to test for the authenticity of these medicines. Why are antibiotics so rife for counterfeit drugs? Counterfeiters of pharmaceuticals succeed in large part by exploiting weaknesses in supply chains, which are often fragmented with poor regulatory frameworks. Antibiotics are often counterfeited because they are in high demand and can be sold for a large profit. To combat the problem of substandard and falsified antibiotics, governments must take a multi-pronged approach. This should encompass enacting laws and regulations to ensure the quality and safety of medicines, conducting surveillance for detecting and removing substandard and falsified products from the market, as well as providing training and education to healthcare professionals and patients regarding the responsible use of antibiotics. In addition, governments must work to strengthen the pharmaceutical supply chain. This includes increasing the transparency of the supply chain, improving the quality control systems, and introducing traceability systems to track the movement of medicines from the manufacturer to the patient. Medical investment in low and middle-income countries Another neglected aspect by international NGOs and governments is investment in building local laboratory capacity in LMICs to combat antimicrobial resistance. Localized laboratory facilities can help identify, track, and prevent the spread of antimicrobial-resistant infections, as well as provide early warnings of emerging drug-resistant strains. Localized microbiology, surveillance, and quality control laboratories can also play an important role in developing new treatments and interventions for combating antimicrobial resistance. In addition, having localized laboratory capacity can provide more accurate standardized data on the prevalence of drug-resistant infections, which can help inform policy decisions and public health interventions. Affordable medicines Finally, governments must work to increase access to high-quality, affordable medicines. This includes improving the availability of generic medicines, which are typically cheaper alternatives to brand-name drugs. They also need to increase access to newer, more effective antibiotics.

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Pharma Tech

Driving Down Drug Costs: How Real-Time Transparency in PBMs Can Make a Difference

Article | July 13, 2022

In the ever-evolving healthcare landscape, transparency in pharmacy benefit management (PBM) has emerged as a critical issue. The discussion surrounding driving down prescription drug costs and increasing access to affordable medications has brought attention to the practices of PBMs. However, achieving true transparency requires more than just buzzwords; it necessitates access to real-time data that empowers consumers to make informed decisions about their healthcare. In this piece, we will explore the importance of real-time transparency in PBMs and highlight how Xevant, a leading platform, is revolutionizing the industry. The Current State of PBM Legislation With over 100 bills to reform PBM practices, legislative efforts are intensifying to address the business practices associated with PBMs. However, one common concern is the absence of language surrounding real-time automation in many of these bills. The lack of such provisions threatens to undermine the effectiveness of the proposed reforms. It is crucial to examine the available resources and insights to gain a comprehensive understanding of the issue. The current state of PBM legislation and the efforts to reform PBM practices highlight the pressing need for transparency and accountability in the pharmaceutical industry. PBMs play a critical role in the drug pricing ecosystem. Still, concerns about “traditional” PBM business practices, such as lack of transparency and opaque rebate systems, have raised questions about their impact on drug prices and patient access to affordable medications. Xevant's Groundbreaking Solution Xevant, led by CEO Brandon Newman, stands at the forefront of the drive for transparency in PBM practices. As the only platform capable of providing PBMs and consumers with real-time, automated, and completely transparent data from the entire pharmacy benefits ecosystem, Xevant is poised to revolutionize the industry against the backdrop of the political landscape. The absence of language surrounding transparency and real-time automation in many proposed bills threatens the effectiveness of the reforms. Yet, innovative companies like Xevant are leading the charge for openness in PBM practices. Xevant's real-time data automation and optimization capabilities empower consumers with timely, comprehensive, and transparent information, enabling them to make informed decisions about their healthcare and potentially save money. With the potential passage of these bills, the pharmaceutical industry could see a shift towards greater accountability, fairer pricing practices, and improved access to affordable medications. The reforms could also create a more level playing field for generic drug manufacturers, fostering competition and lowering prices. Real-Time Data Automation and Optimization Newman emphasizes that transparency cannot be achieved without access to real-time data automation and optimization. This real-time, customized data enables individuals to compare prices, explore alternatives, and understand the specific cost components related to their medications. By bringing together various parts of lowering drug costs, such as drug rebates, 340B contracts, sell-side discounts, copay assistance, and employer negotiations, Xevant offers a solution that empowers consumers with the information they need when required. The Implications of Timely Access to Data The scarcity of timely access to data among many traditional PBMs is a significant challenge in achieving transparency in the pharmaceutical industry. These PBMs typically collect data annually, which leaves a substantial margin of error and can result in millions of dollars lost from consumers' pockets. In contrast, Xevant's capabilities offer a game-changing solution. With Xevant's platform, consumers gain immediate access to critical information regarding drug rebates, markups during spread pricing, competitive alternatives, and the vast landscape of the pharmaceutical ecosystem. Having these complete datasets available in real-time allows individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare and potentially save lives. The significance of timely access to data cannot be overstated, as transparency becomes meaningful only when it happens in the present rather than months, or even a year, later than when the impact has already occurred. Navigating Proposed Legislation and Questionable Business Practices Another critical aspect of the PBM landscape that Xevant addresses is the moral implications associated with cost-sharing, clawbacks, spread pricing, and the pass-through of rebates. These practices have long been criticized for their opacity and their negative consequences on patients' access to affordable medications. Xevant's transparency-focused approach highlights these practices, allowing stakeholders to evaluate their ethical implications and work towards fairer alternatives. Xevant recognizes that proposed legislation may have potential cracks that allow for slip-through and the continuation of questionable business practices. Delayed and inaccurate reporting are loopholes that can hinder the effectiveness of reform efforts. By actively engaging with legislators and industry stakeholders, Xevant aims to identify these potential shortcomings and advocate for comprehensive robust legislation that leaves no room forexploitation. The Future of Healthcare and the Role of Real-Time Automation As the discussion surrounding PBM reform gains momentum, the future of healthcare in America hangs in the balance. Xevant sets a new standard for efficiency and consumer empowerment in healthcare decision-making by employing AI-driven technology. Xevant's visionary approach to real-time data automation and optimization paves the way for greater transparency and cost savings in the pharmaceutical industry. Wrapping Up Transparency in pharmacy benefit management is crucial to addressing the soaring costs of prescription drugs and enhancing access to affordable medications. Without access to real-time data and automation, the pursuit of transparency remains elusive. Xevant's groundbreaking platform solves this pressing challenge, enabling PBMs and consumers to access complete, transparent data in real-time. As legislative efforts progress, the need for real-time transparency becomes increasingly evident, and Xevant emerges as the leading legal solution for PBMs. When harnessing the power of real-time data automation, the vision of affordable healthcare can be transformed into a reality, benefiting individuals and the entire healthcare ecosystem.

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Pharma Tech

Tips for Managing Chronic Pain Beyond Prescription Painkillers

Article | July 20, 2022

Painkillers like Oxycontin, Percocet, and Vicodin, have been prescribed by primary physicians, surgeons, dentists, and other healthcare providers to patients suffering from varying levels of pain. Though these medications have proven to be an effective source of pain relief, they have also proven to be highly addictive. In fact, it has even been reported that there are more cases of a drug overdose and deaths from prescription painkillers than heroin or cocaine. While there are a number of factors that play into this opioid epidemic, educating doctors and patients on alternative solutions to managing chronic pain is a great place to start combatting this nationwide crisis.

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What are the advantages of PCD Pharma Company?

Article | February 17, 2020

PCD Pharma stands for propaganda distribution. A PCD company gives brand name and support to its franchises. They also provide distribution rights and monopoly rights within a particular region. If a person wants to establish their business, it is a must for them to know the pros and cons of the business to make a sound decision. Needless to mention that PCD company has a lot to contribute in the medical filed. Worldwide in a medical field, A PCD Pharma Company is playing an essential and crucial role in the rapid growth. The pharma industry is progressing t a fast pace. The company uses the latest technologies for each brand which ensures the safety of products and accepts the responsibility of human health & life by providing better outcomes. To have a drug license number and company registration, the cost to establish the company is quite cost-effective that is15000-20000rs. So this gives people a brilliant opportunity to have their unit without digging a big hole in their bank balance. Indian produces exquisite quality products, which make pharma companies a considerable success.

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Spotlight

Nutricia North America

Nutricia is a global health company that leads the development and use of advanced medical nutrition for specialized care. Nutricia products and services transform the daily lives of millions of infants, children, adults and aging seniors. We are dedicated to providing quality formulas and medical foods for the treatment of food protein allergies and rare genetic and metabolic disorders.

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Benzer Pharmacy and ScriptDrop “Sign, Seal” New Deal for ALL Mail Order Deliveries

Benzer Pharmacy | June 05, 2019

Benzer Pharmacy is proud to announce that it has joined forces with ScriptDrop, the first mobile courier application for delivering medications to patients, as part of efforts to drive down costs and improve adherence rates—especially for those who might fail to pick-up their prescriptions at the pharmacy—due to the inconvenience. According to Company Spokesperson Nicholas Potts, ScriptDrop embodies, “The first medication delivery program [of its kind] to integrate directly into the pharmacist’s existing workflow … reducing [incidences] of medication abandonment through innovation at the pharmacy.” Meghann Chilcott, Chief Technology and Marketing Officer, further put the move into perspective, saying, “By partnering with ScriptDrop for in-workflow prescription delivery, we are working to make the process more efficient for our member pharmacists, while promoting a seamless delivery solution for patients.” “Even better,” Chilcott continued, “ScriptDrop has achieved something quite remarkable in developing the first logistics platform designed specifically for pharmaceutical deliveries in the U.S.—powered by technology that now allows the pharmacy to track ‘chain of custody’ by providing real-time delivery status updates and digital signatures.”

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Benzer Pharmacy Joins MinibarRx® on Mission to Improve Adult Vaccination Rates

Benzer Pharmacy | July 16, 2019

Talk about the importance of being vaccinated is pretty common, but unfortunately, words don’t always translate into action for countless adults. To help compensate for the shortfall, Benzer Pharmacy is introducing MinibarRx® multi-vaccine, SMART refrigeration systems in select locations throughout its organization. Describing the reasoning behind the rollout, Tonya Shackelford, VP of Clinical Services, explained that MinibarRx offers patients safe, convenient, and easily affordable access to a variety of essential vaccines in just one-stop at participating Benzer locations. “When patients learn they need a vaccine, like Hepatitis A, for example, they don’t want to wait several days for it to be ordered; then, have to make a second trip for administration,” Shackelford said. “Having a perpetual inventory in stock can be instrumental to preventing potentially life-threatening diseases.” According to a statement on the company’s website, MinibarRx represents the product of over 30 years of specialty drug distribution and over 40 years of smart refrigeration technology experience, providing pharmacists with a profoundly unique and functional cold supply chain, inventory management solution for vaccines and biologics.

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Benzer Pharmacy Stocks Up New Inventory Management Solutions with OrderInsite

Benzer Pharmacy | July 16, 2019

Benzer Pharmacy proudly announces the start of a joint initiative with OrderInsite™ to improve inventory management processes across its system, ensuring that medications are always in-stock and ready for pick-up without exception. In the words of Meghann Chilcott, Chief Technology and Marketing Officer for Benzer Pharmacy, the move is intended to produce a two-fold outcome that benefits participating pharmacies in terms of optimizing reserves for better margins, while enhancing the ability of frontline staff members to deliver exceptional customer service at the point-of-sale. “Few things are as frustrating for patients as having to leave the pharmacy empty handed, so we decided to do something about it,” Chilcott reasoned. “Now, by teaming up with OrderInsite, we’ve added in extra layers of protection to guard against preventable shortfalls in drugs on hand.” She continued, “On our end, reluctantly having to say, ‘We’re sorry, but we’re out,’ is simply no longer acceptable under any circumstances.” While Chilcott’s assertion is easier said than done, the technology that makes it possible has a track record of proven success and is currently used by OrderInsite partners such as the American Association of Pharmacies (AAP), PioneerRx, and Medi-Span, among others.

Read More

Benzer Pharmacy and ScriptDrop “Sign, Seal” New Deal for ALL Mail Order Deliveries

Benzer Pharmacy | June 05, 2019

Benzer Pharmacy is proud to announce that it has joined forces with ScriptDrop, the first mobile courier application for delivering medications to patients, as part of efforts to drive down costs and improve adherence rates—especially for those who might fail to pick-up their prescriptions at the pharmacy—due to the inconvenience. According to Company Spokesperson Nicholas Potts, ScriptDrop embodies, “The first medication delivery program [of its kind] to integrate directly into the pharmacist’s existing workflow … reducing [incidences] of medication abandonment through innovation at the pharmacy.” Meghann Chilcott, Chief Technology and Marketing Officer, further put the move into perspective, saying, “By partnering with ScriptDrop for in-workflow prescription delivery, we are working to make the process more efficient for our member pharmacists, while promoting a seamless delivery solution for patients.” “Even better,” Chilcott continued, “ScriptDrop has achieved something quite remarkable in developing the first logistics platform designed specifically for pharmaceutical deliveries in the U.S.—powered by technology that now allows the pharmacy to track ‘chain of custody’ by providing real-time delivery status updates and digital signatures.”

Read More

Benzer Pharmacy Joins MinibarRx® on Mission to Improve Adult Vaccination Rates

Benzer Pharmacy | July 16, 2019

Talk about the importance of being vaccinated is pretty common, but unfortunately, words don’t always translate into action for countless adults. To help compensate for the shortfall, Benzer Pharmacy is introducing MinibarRx® multi-vaccine, SMART refrigeration systems in select locations throughout its organization. Describing the reasoning behind the rollout, Tonya Shackelford, VP of Clinical Services, explained that MinibarRx offers patients safe, convenient, and easily affordable access to a variety of essential vaccines in just one-stop at participating Benzer locations. “When patients learn they need a vaccine, like Hepatitis A, for example, they don’t want to wait several days for it to be ordered; then, have to make a second trip for administration,” Shackelford said. “Having a perpetual inventory in stock can be instrumental to preventing potentially life-threatening diseases.” According to a statement on the company’s website, MinibarRx represents the product of over 30 years of specialty drug distribution and over 40 years of smart refrigeration technology experience, providing pharmacists with a profoundly unique and functional cold supply chain, inventory management solution for vaccines and biologics.

Read More

Benzer Pharmacy Stocks Up New Inventory Management Solutions with OrderInsite

Benzer Pharmacy | July 16, 2019

Benzer Pharmacy proudly announces the start of a joint initiative with OrderInsite™ to improve inventory management processes across its system, ensuring that medications are always in-stock and ready for pick-up without exception. In the words of Meghann Chilcott, Chief Technology and Marketing Officer for Benzer Pharmacy, the move is intended to produce a two-fold outcome that benefits participating pharmacies in terms of optimizing reserves for better margins, while enhancing the ability of frontline staff members to deliver exceptional customer service at the point-of-sale. “Few things are as frustrating for patients as having to leave the pharmacy empty handed, so we decided to do something about it,” Chilcott reasoned. “Now, by teaming up with OrderInsite, we’ve added in extra layers of protection to guard against preventable shortfalls in drugs on hand.” She continued, “On our end, reluctantly having to say, ‘We’re sorry, but we’re out,’ is simply no longer acceptable under any circumstances.” While Chilcott’s assertion is easier said than done, the technology that makes it possible has a track record of proven success and is currently used by OrderInsite partners such as the American Association of Pharmacies (AAP), PioneerRx, and Medi-Span, among others.

Read More

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