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 podcast where we bring you the latest insights shaping patient access, supply chain/logistics, data & tech, and healthcare innovation. I’m your host, and today we’re covering new controversy surrounding the NIAID, emerging research on ALS, and growing workforce challenges across US hospitals.

A former National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) director has alleged 

 in retaliation for whistleblower complaints. The former official claims her termination followed reports of internal misconduct and mismanagement within the agency. The allegations are now drawing scrutiny from federal oversight bodies, reigniting debate over transparency, accountability, and the treatment of whistleblowers in federally funded research institutions.

In groundbreaking research, scientists now believe amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or ALS, may have an 

. The study identified immune cells attacking motor neurons, suggesting that immunotherapy could one day slow or alter disease progression. This discovery marks a potential paradigm shift in understanding ALS and opens the door for new treatment approaches beyond symptom management.

Lastly, in healthcare operations, hospitals nationwide have 

 since June, citing financial strain, rising labor costs, and declining reimbursements. The cuts have affected both clinical and administrative roles, with smaller and rural hospitals hit hardest. Experts warn the layoffs could further exacerbate staffing shortages and impact patient care access at a critical time for the healthcare system.

From internal turmoil in federal research to new insights into ALS and ongoing hospital workforce reductions, these stories reflect the pressures and discoveries shaping healthcare today.

. For more insights on trends transforming pharmaceutical access and care delivery, visit 

Thanks for listening—until next time, stay well and stay informed.

This episode of Pharma Pulse covers allegations of retaliation against a former NIAID director following whistleblower complaints, new research suggesting ALS may be an autoimmune disease, and the wave of hospital layoffs affecting thousands of healthcare workers across the United States.

Pharma Pulse: NIAID Whistleblower Controversy, ALS Linked to Autoimmunity, and Hospital Layoffs Accelerate Nationwide

 podcast where we bring you the latest insights shaping patient access, supply chain/logistics, data & tech, and healthcare innovation. I’m your host, and today we’re covering a milestone FDA approval, a strategic pipeline shift at Takeda, and a major expansion in biopharma storage infrastructure.

, the medication commonly used in combination with misoprostol for medication abortions. The move could broaden access and lower costs at a time when reproductive health remains at the center of national debate. Industry analysts note that while generic approval typically signals greater affordability, ongoing legal and regulatory challenges could still limit how widely the drug is distributed.

In R&D strategy, Takeda has announced it will 

 its cell therapy research programs. The company says the decision reflects a sharper focus on areas where it sees the strongest potential for scientific and commercial impact, including oncology, rare diseases, and plasma-derived therapies. While Takeda had been pursuing several early-stage cell therapy projects, leadership emphasized the need to prioritize pipeline resources.

Lastly, in supply chain news, SciSafe has expanded its biopharma storage capacity with a 

 in East Brunswick, NJ. The site is designed to support clinical and commercial-scale storage of advanced therapies under strict temperature-controlled conditions. With demand for biologics and cell and gene therapies growing, the expansion reflects the critical role of logistics and storage infrastructure in safeguarding product quality.

From regulatory approvals and shifting R&D priorities to expanded supply chain capabilities, these stories highlight the forces shaping access, innovation, and reliability in today’s pharmaceutical industry.

This episode of Pharma Pulse covers the FDA’s quiet approval of the first generic mifepristone tablet, Takeda’s decision to discontinue cell therapy research programs, and SciSafe’s expansion of biopharma storage capacity with a new East Brunswick, New Jersey facility.

Pharma Pulse: FDA Approves First Generic Mifepristone, Takeda Exits Cell Therapy Research, and SciSafe Expands Biopharma Storage

 podcast where we bring you the latest insights shaping patient access, supply chain/logistics, data & tech, and healthcare innovation. I’m your host, and today we’re looking at the potential impact of a government shutdown on the FDA, updates to Medicare Advantage offerings, and new concerns over US maternal and child health outcomes.

With another federal government shutdown now in effect, analysts 

 that the FDA could face significant operational challenges. Key functions such as drug review timelines, inspections, and post-market safety monitoring may be disrupted if funding lapses. Industry stakeholders say prolonged delays could slow innovation and patient access to critical therapies, underscoring the urgency of stable federal support for regulatory operations.

, with expanded benefits designed to improve affordability and care coordination. The plans include enhanced coverage for preventive services, chronic disease management, and supplemental benefits like dental and vision. Aetna says the offerings aim to meet growing demand among seniors for flexible, comprehensive care solutions.

 published by The Commonwealth Fund finds that maternal and child mortality rates in the US remain higher than in most other high-income countries. Researchers attribute the disparities to gaps in access, inequities in care, and systemic issues within the healthcare system. The findings are prompting renewed calls for targeted policy interventions and expanded maternal health programs to address the crisis.

From the risks of regulatory disruption to changes in Medicare coverage and troubling maternal health statistics, these stories highlight the challenges and opportunities shaping US healthcare in 2026.

This episode of Pharma Pulse covers the potential ramifications of a federal government shutdown on FDA operations, Aetna’s newly announced 2026 Medicare Advantage offerings, and new research showing maternal and child mortality rates in the US remain higher than in most high-income nations.

Pharma Pulse: FDA Faces Shutdown Risks, Aetna Unveils 2026 Medicare Advantage Plans, and US Maternal Mortality Remains High

 podcast where we bring you the latest insights shaping patient access, supply chain/logistics, data & tech, and healthcare innovation. I’m your host, and today we’re looking at the importance of telehealth during policy uncertainty, the growing popularity of Medicare Advantage special needs plans, and Halozyme’s latest acquisition.

The American Telemedicine Association is 

 that the US must preserve telehealth access to avoid setbacks in healthcare delivery during the federal government shutdown. Advocates argue that telehealth has become an essential lifeline for patients, particularly in rural and underserved communities. Without clear policies, they say millions could face disruptions in care, highlighting the urgent need for permanent telehealth protections.

 from KFF shows that Medicare Advantage special needs plans, or SNPs, are becoming increasingly popular among seniors. Enrollment has more than doubled over the past five years, reflecting demand for tailored coverage options for patients with chronic conditions or complex health needs. Experts note that while SNPs can improve care coordination, they also require careful oversight to ensure quality and equity across different populations.

Lastly, in business news, Halozyme has signed a 

 to acquire Elektrofi, a biotechnology company specializing in ultra-concentrated drug formulations. The deal is expected to expand Halozyme’s drug delivery capabilities and strengthen its partnerships with major pharma companies. Industry analysts say the acquisition could accelerate development of next-generation therapies and broaden Halozyme’s role in biopharma innovation.

From protecting telehealth access and evolving Medicare coverage to major biopharma acquisitions, these stories illustrate the interplay of policy, patient needs, and industry strategy shaping healthcare today.

This episode of Pharma Pulse covers ATA’s warning that telehealth protections are critical to maintaining care access during a potential federal shutdown, new KFF data showing the rapid rise of Medicare Advantage special needs plans, and Halozyme’s $750 million acquisition of Elektrofi to expand its drug delivery portfolio.

Pharma Pulse: Telehealth Access at Risk During Shutdown, Medicare Advantage SNPs Surge, and Halozyme Buys Elektrofi for $750M

 podcast where we bring you the latest insights shaping patient access, supply chain/logistics, data & tech, and healthcare innovation. I’m your host, and today we’re looking at how Medicaid changes may impact care access, new data on a fixed-dose diabetes therapy, and Bristol Myers Squibb’s latest move in direct-to-patient access.

 shows that childhood insurance dynamics strongly predict how Medicaid cuts will affect access to care. Researchers warn that rollbacks in eligibility and coverage could widen existing gaps, especially for children from low-income families. The findings come as several states reconsider their Medicaid budgets, raising concerns about long-term disparities in pediatric health outcomes.

 has been shown to lower rates of heart failure among patients with type 2 diabetes. By simplifying treatment and improving adherence, the therapy not only enhances glycemic control but also reduces cardiovascular risk. Experts say this could mark a significant step forward in integrated care for diabetes patients, who often face elevated risks of heart-related complications.

Lastly, in other news, Bristol Myers Squibb is expanding direct-to-patient access with a 

 for Sotyktu, its TYK2 inhibitor for moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis. The initiative aims to make it easier for patients to begin and stay on therapy, part of a broader trend of pharma companies developing patient-centric access models that reduce reliance on traditional pharmacy channels.

From Medicaid policy shifts and new treatment advances to evolving access strategies, these stories reflect the diverse forces shaping healthcare and the pharmaceutical industry today.

This episode of Pharma Pulse covers new research showing Medicaid cuts could widen pediatric coverage gaps, clinical trial data on a fixed-dose combination therapy lowering heart failure risk in type 2 diabetes, and Bristol Myers Squibb’s launch of a direct-to-patient program for Sotyktu to improve psoriasis treatment access.

Pharma Pulse: Medicaid Cuts Threaten Childhood Coverage, Fixed-Dose Combo Reduces Heart Failure in Diabetes, and BMS Expands Sotyktu Access

 podcast where we bring you the latest insights shaping patient access, supply chain/logistics, data & tech, and healthcare innovation. I’m your host, and today we’re covering a major shift in US vaccine policy, promising results from a Medicare savings program, and Eli Lilly’s latest manufacturing investment.

The CDC’s vaccine advisory committee has 

 to transition to a broad COVID-19 vaccination recommendation for all adults. This marks a shift away from targeted eligibility criteria, underscoring the agency’s view that COVID-19 vaccination remains a critical tool for long-term public health. Experts say the move should simplify communication and encourage wider uptake, particularly ahead of future seasonal surges.

 shows that the Part D Senior Savings Model has significantly reduced out-of-pocket insulin costs for Medicare beneficiaries, while also improving adherence and diabetes care outcomes. Patients in the program reported paying no more than $35 a month for insulin, leading to better medication consistency and overall health management. Policymakers are watching the model closely as they consider long-term approaches to drug pricing reform.

Lastly, in industry news, Eli Lilly is investing in a 

 in Houston, TX. The site will focus on advanced therapies and support the company’s rapidly growing pipeline, including diabetes and obesity medicines. The expansion highlights Lilly’s ongoing push to strengthen domestic manufacturing capacity and keep pace with rising global demand for its treatments.

From universal vaccine recommendations to reduced insulin costs and major US manufacturing investments, these stories show the dynamic interplay of policy, access, and innovation shaping healthcare today.

This episode of Pharma Pulse covers the CDC’s unanimous vote to broaden COVID-19 vaccine recommendations for all adults, new data showing the Medicare Part D Senior Savings Model lowers insulin costs and improves care, and Eli Lilly’s investment in a new Houston manufacturing facility to support its fast-growing pipeline.

Pharma Pulse: CDC Expands COVID-19 Vaccine Guidance, Medicare Model Cuts Insulin Costs, and Lilly Invests in Houston Facility

 podcast where we bring you the latest insights shaping patient access, supply chain/logistics, data & tech, and healthcare innovation. I’m your host, and today we’re covering new COVID-19 vaccine guidance, Pfizer’s latest acquisition, and a digital innovation aimed at improving GLP-1 adherence.

The CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices has shifted its guidance on COVID-19 vaccination for certain groups to a 

. Instead of universal recommendations, providers are encouraged to discuss risks and benefits with individual patients. Experts say this approach reflects the evolving nature of the virus, as well as a growing emphasis on tailoring vaccination strategies to patient needs.

, a biotech focused on obesity and cardiovascular disease treatments. The deal adds promising candidates to Pfizer’s pipeline at a time when competition in the obesity drug market is heating up, particularly around GLP-1 therapies. Analysts see the move as a strategic step to diversify Pfizer’s portfolio beyond COVID-19 products and reinforce its position in high-demand therapeutic areas.

Closed Loop Medicine has teamed up with WeDosify

 to introduce an adaptive dosing platform designed to help patients stick with their GLP-1 treatments. The system personalizes dosing schedules and provides real-time feedback, with the goal of reducing side effects and improving long-term adherence. As GLP-1 demand continues to soar, tools that support patient experience and persistence are becoming a key part of the treatment ecosystem.

From evolving vaccine guidance to pipeline growth and digital adherence tools, these stories highlight the intersection of science, business, and patient care shaping the pharma industry today.

This episode of Pharma Pulse covers ACIP’s move toward shared decision-making for COVID-19 vaccines, Pfizer’s acquisition of Metsera to strengthen its obesity and cardiovascular pipelines, and Closed Loop Medicine’s partnership with Wedosify to improve patient adherence to GLP-1 therapies.

Pharma Pulse: CDC Shifts COVID-19 Vaccine Guidance, Pfizer Buys Metsera for Obesity Pipeline, and New Tech Targets GLP-1 Adherence

 podcast where we bring you the latest insights shaping patient access, supply chain/logistics, data & tech, and healthcare innovation. I’m your host, and today we’re covering a record-setting US manufacturing investment, new cardiovascular data on GLP-1s, and a high-profile acquisition in the metabolic disease space.

 to expand US biopharma manufacturing over the next five years. The plan includes new facilities, technology upgrades, and workforce training, with a focus on vaccines, specialty medicines, and advanced modalities. The move underscores the push to bolster domestic supply chains and secure capacity for future innovation.

In clinical news, fresh data confirm that weekly GLP-1 therapies 

 in patients with obesity or diabetes. The therapies not only improve weight and glucose control but also lower the likelihood of major adverse events like heart attacks and strokes. These findings strengthen the case for broader access and reimbursement at a time of surging demand for GLP-1s.

Lastly, in dealmaking, Roche has announced its 

 of 89bio, gaining rights to the FGF21 analog Pegozafermin, a promising candidate for metabolic diseases such as MASH and severe hypertriglyceridemia. Analysts view the deal as a strategic step to deepen Roche’s presence in cardiometabolic medicine, an area seeing renewed investment as companies diversify beyond traditional oncology portfolios.

From GSK’s massive US investment and expanding GLP-1 evidence, to Roche’s bet on next-generation metabolic drugs, these stories highlight the powerful forces shaping the pharma landscape today.

This episode of Pharma Pulse covers GSK’s $30 billion plan to expand US biopharma production, new evidence that weekly GLP-1 therapies significantly reduce cardiovascular risks, and Roche’s acquisition of 89bio to add the FGF21 analog Pegozafermin to its growing metabolic disease portfolio.

Pharma Pulse: GSK Invests $30B in US Manufacturing, GLP-1s Show Heart Benefits, and Roche Buys 89bio for Metabolic Pipeline

 podcast where we bring you the latest insights shaping patient access, supply chain/logistics, data & tech, and healthcare innovation. I’m your host, and today we’re discussing leadership changes at the CDC, ongoing challenges with physician mental health, and a major investment in US biomanufacturing.

The former director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has 

 she was fired because she refused to “replace evidence with ideology.” Her comments highlight growing political tension over public health leadership and the role of science in policymaking. The controversy underscores how public trust in health agencies remains a central issue in navigating future health crises.

 emphasizes that physician well-being and mental health remain critical concerns across the healthcare system. High levels of burnout, depression, and stress are affecting providers’ ability to deliver quality care, with ripple effects on patient safety and workforce stability. Experts stress the need for systemic solutions, including better support resources and organizational changes, to address these long-standing challenges.

to build a new manufacturing facility in Virginia. The plant will expand capacity for biologics and support the company’s fast-growing pipeline. The move reflects ongoing efforts to strengthen US-based production and secure supply chains amid rising demand for innovative therapies.

From questions of evidence in public health leadership to physician well-being and historic investments in US manufacturing, these stories reflect the pressures and opportunities shaping healthcare today.

This episode of Pharma Pulse covers the former CDC director’s claim she was dismissed for refusing to prioritize ideology over evidence, new findings that physician mental health remains a serious concern, and Eli Lilly’s $5 billion investment in a new Virginia manufacturing plant to expand biologics production.

Pharma Pulse: CDC Leadership Controversy, Physician Mental Health Challenges, and Eli Lilly’s $5B US Manufacturing Expansion

 podcast where we bring you the latest insights shaping patient access, supply chain/logistics, data & tech, and healthcare innovation. I’m your host, and today we’re covering parental vaccine hesitancy, changes to a key federal vaccine committee, and growing workforce pressures in healthcare.

 finds that 1 in 6 parents in the US are delaying or skipping routine vaccinations for their children. Researchers warn that this trend could undermine progress in preventing diseases like measles and whooping cough. Experts point to misinformation, lack of trust in institutions, and logistical barriers as key drivers, raising concern about potential outbreaks.

In other news, Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has announced 

 to a federal vaccine advisory committee ahead of an important meeting. The expanded roster is expected to influence recommendations on immunization schedules and COVID-19 vaccine policy. The move comes as debates over vaccine safety and mandates remain highly polarized.

 are considering leaving their current roles. Burnout, workload pressures, and dissatisfaction with pay remain the top factors. The findings highlight an ongoing retention crisis across the sector, with potential ripple effects on patient access, provider stability, and the broader healthcare system.

From shifting attitudes toward vaccines to federal policy debates and workforce challenges, these stories capture the complex pressures facing healthcare today.

This episode of Pharma Pulse covers new data showing 1 in 6 US parents are delaying or skipping childhood vaccinations, Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s move to expand a federal vaccine advisory committee, and survey findings that more than half of healthcare workers are considering leaving their current roles.

Pharma Pulse: Parental Vaccine Hesitancy Grows, Federal Vaccine Committee Expands, and Healthcare Workforce Faces Retention Crisis

The addition of Evo’s cryogenic shipping and tracking technology enhances Peli BioThermal’s reach across the pharma value chain, driving innovation and integration in temperature-controlled logistics while supporting these therapies.

Peli BioThermal Expands Cold Chain Portfolio With Evo Acquisition to Strengthen CGT Logistics

The new 5-million-cubic-foot biorepository enhances cold chain logistics, expands biopharma storage capacity, and strengthens New Jersey’s position as a life sciences hub.

SciSafe Expands Biopharma Storage With New East Brunswick Facility

Following Congress’ failure to pass funding measures, FDA announced it will continue only essential public health and safety functions. This amid a pause on imposing 100% tariff rates.

FDA Operations Scale Back Amid Government Shutdown, Halting New Drug Application Reviews

Capturing insights from executives and industry experts on the biggest challenges shaping pharma today, from drug pricing pressures and access barriers to supply chain shifts, digital adoption, and evolving patient-centered care strategies.

Pharma Commerce's 2025 State of the Industry Survey

The Generation Park site will create over 600 permanent jobs, support advanced small molecule production, and play a role in scaling orforglipron, Lilly’s first oral GLP-1 receptor agonist for obesity.

Eli Lilly to Invest $6.5 Billion in New Houston Manufacturing Facility

LogiPharma 2025: Ramifications of a 100% Tariff on Branded and Patented Drugs Entering The US

At the 20th anniversary of LogiPharma USA, Dave Malenfant reflected on the event’s growth and its pivotal role in shaping discussions across the pharmaceutical supply chain. With over 700 attendees and standing-room-only master classes, Malenfant emphasized the strong industry engagement and the event’s ability to attract professionals from diverse company sizes and both clinical and commercial supply chain functions.

Looking back over two decades, Malenfant pointed out how the industry and the conference itself have evolved. In the early years, the sector was heavily male dominated, but today, greater female representation is evident across attendees and leadership roles. He credited Logipharma for broadening its reach and relevance, adapting to trends, and becoming, in his view, the premier global conference for pharmaceutical supply chain leaders.

For Malenfant, the continued growth of Logipharma is a testament to its ability to remain timely and relevant, bringing together a community that is both tackling current challenges and preparing for future transformations in supply chain management.

A transcript of Malenfant’s conversation with 

What are the ramifications of a 100% tariff on branded or patented drugs entering the US?

 Well, it's interesting you bring that up because there's been a couple of announcements in the last week of large pharmaceutical companies moving their manufacturing from Europe and bringing it to the United States. I forget which company off the top of my head that announced they're building a manufacturing facility in Austin, TX. I know that my former employer, Alcon, is bringing back manufacturing that's being done in Belgium and in France, so I think the ramification is going to be more manufacturing in the United States. I also believe that the 100% is not going to be there forever. I think it's part of the negotiation of really getting the US pharmaceutical companies to start driving more manufacturing in the United States, or at least, think about how are we going to bring it to the United States. We also have to keep in mind that the concern with 100% is that it could cause temporary shortages, and this morning, we had a panel that talked about shortages, and the 100% that's going to kick in Oct. 1, that could cause temporary shortages because of the reluctance of the companies to import the drugs. But I do think it's going to accelerate moving more production to the United States.

Dave Malenfant, healthcare supply chain expert, discusses the ramifications of a 100% tariff on branded and patented drugs entering the US.

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LogiPharma USA 2025: Ramifications of a 100% Tariff on Branded and Patented Drugs Entering The US

Turning Data Into a Strategic Advantage

This video was created based on an article written by Bill Barr, Eric Jen, PharmD, and Wendi LeVigne: 

Monitoring Payer-Level Performance and Planning

You know those reports you get, the ones packed with data? Let's be honest, a lot of the time, they just tell you what already happened, right? Well, in this explainer, we're going to talk about how to flip that script, how to turn that simple scorecard into a real strategic guide that actually helps you shape what happens next for your brand. And this quote right here, it just nails it. We need to stop just pointing out the winners and losers after the game is over.

The whole point is to use that data to drive what your team does next. It's all about playing offense, not just keeping score. So I want you to think about this for a second. Are your reports a scorecard for a game that's already finished, or are they a playbook for the next one? It's a simple question, but, man, we get stuck looking in the rear-view mirror way too often. All right, so let's dig in and really move beyond that old school report card model. We've got to pinpoint the real problem with how most reporting is done.

And here it is, the big failure. Most of our reporting is just a history lesson. It's great at telling you what happened, but it's totally silent on the why, and, more importantly, what on earth you should do about it. You're left with all this information, but no clear path forward, no action plan. Okay, so how do we fix this mess? Well, what I love about the source material for this is that it boils everything down to just two critical questions. You get these right, and you can totally transform that history lesson into a powerful strategic tool.

Here they are, super simple. Question one is all about performance, who's on our side and who's getting in our way? And question two is about the plan. Okay, so what's our move? What are we going to do about it? Any report that's worth its salt has to answer both of these questions every single time.

All right, let's tackle that first question. It makes sense right—before you can build a plan, you’ve got to know where you stand. So how do we really get a clear picture of our performance? The first piece of the puzzle is something called payer contribution. And listen, this is not just about the business you have right now. It's about potential. We're talking about the percentage of all possible prescriptions that a single payer controls. Once you know that, you know exactly how much attention they really deserve. So, how do you actually figure that out? Well, it's a three-step dance. You estimate the total prescriptions in an account, figure out your slice of that pie, and then this is key: You double check it with syndicated data. The whole point is to get a number you can trust so you can point your resources where they'll make the biggest splash.

Now, looking at your market share trend is great, but honestly, it's not enough. You have to connect that trend to actual revenue. Think about it, a tiny 1% drop in share in a massive account—that could be a five-alarm fire for your bottom line, but a huge 10% drop in a tiny account might just be a blip. It's that revenue context that tells you what's really on fire and where you need to focus right now. And this brings us to the last part of gaging performance reimbursement. And let me tell you, a simple label like preferred tier is basically useless. It means nothing without context. The real strategic insight, the gold, comes from asking the questions you see on the right, what are the actual obstacles for the patient? What's their out-of-pocket cost compared to our competitors? That's what tells you if your position is truly favorable or not.

Okay, so we've taken a hard look at our performance. We know where we stand, the good, the bad and the ugly. So now it's time for that second critical question, what's the plan? And to build that plan, we're not just going to wing it. We're going to use a framework called GOST—that stands for goals, objectives, strategies and tactics. It's just a really solid, systematic way to build out plans that are consistent, thoughtful, and, most importantly, hold people accountable.

The first step in planning is goal allocation, and when you boil it all down, for any given payer, you're really only doing one of two things. You're either fighting to gain or maintain your position, or you're trying to drive sales with the position you already have. And deciding how you split your time and money between those two, that is a huge strategic choice, and having a general goal just isn't going to cut it. It has to be a smart objective, you know, specific, measurable, achievable, all that good stuff.

So let's improve. Orr share is fuzzy, but attain a 32% market share by the end of Q—now that's a real target. It's crystal clear. You can measure it, and everyone knows what they're on the hook for. This next part is absolutely crucial. The best strategies aren't just pulled out of thin air. They're not guesses. They are born from a really disciplined analysis of your own internal strengths and weaknesses mapped against the external opportunities and threats you're facing out there in the market. And this table is how you turn that analysis into real action. It literally transmutes a basic SWOT analysis into a strategy generator. So, for example, an SO strategy (strengths opportunities) might mean you use one of your strengths, let's say amazing clinical data, to jump on an opportunity, like a pair who's suddenly really interested in health economics. See how that works? Your analysis directly creates your strategic playbook.

All right, so we've done all this work, we've analyzed our performance, we've built this detailed plan. What's the bottom line? What's the real payoff here? What's the strategic advantage you actually get? Well, the payoff is huge, and it's super clear. First, you get your leadership team focused on the payers that actually move the needle. Second, you drive real accountability across your team, because everyone's working off the same clear, measurable plan, and the end result, you maximize your net revenue and you get the best possible reimbursement for your brand. That's the win. So here's what I want you to do. The next time a performance report lands on your desk, don't just see it as a recap of what already happened. I want you to see it as page one, the first page of your next strategic plan, because your data is telling a story. The only question left is, are you ready to write the next chapter?

This guide shows how to move beyond rear-view reporting and transform data into actionable strategies that drive payer engagement, sharpen planning, and maximize brand performance.

Balancing Tariffs and Patient Access in Pharma Policy

, Dave Malenfant, a healthcare supply chain expert, discusses the potential impact of a proposed 250% tariff on pharmaceutical imports, emphasizing that the effect depends heavily on where in the supply chain the tariff is applied. If imposed on active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), the impact would be minimal, as APIs contribute relatively little to the total cost of a finished drug and adjustments could be made through negotiation. However, if applied to finished pharmaceuticals or key components—such as bottle plugs, closures, molded parts, and glass—the cost implications could be significant, since these materials represent a substantial portion of overall manufacturing costs.

Malenfant notes that the US conducts much of its pharmaceutical research and development domestically but often outsources manufacturing to lower-cost countries, only to re-import the products for sale. He questions this practice, arguing that products sold in the US should be manufactured domestically to strengthen the supply chain and reduce dependency on foreign production. He cites examples of non-US companies, such as the world’s largest generic drugmaker, establishing manufacturing facilities in the United States as a step in the right direction.

The interview also addresses duty drawback. a current process allowing companies to recover duties paid on imported pharmaceuticals, which the proposed tariff regulation would reportedly eliminate. Without duty drawback, the financial burden on manufacturers and distributors would increase.

While higher component costs could drive up product expenses, Malenfant believes that companies are unlikely to pass these increases directly to patients. Instead, they may absorb the costs by reducing margins, particularly since US pharma companies already operate with some of the highest profit margins globally. However, the ripple effect would reach insurance companies, prompting complex negotiations between insurers, distributors, and manufacturers to prevent direct cost increases to patients and maintain access to medications.

He also comments on how the tariff could cascade through the pharma supply chain; the downstream operational challenges that might arise for pharma companies;mitigation strategies industry leaders should already be exploring; and much more.

When should providing patient access supersede the payment of tariffs?

The number one thing to keep in mind all the time is the patient, and make sure that the patient has access to the medications. Whatever we've got to do to make sure we have patient access is so important. If there are products that we have no choice—there are some orphan products that are not made in United States—they're made offshore.

We’re assuming the government's not going to be reasonable on these, but if you have an orphan drug that's absolutely essential, for example, oncology, where we've got certain products that are in clinical studies here in the United States that pharmacologically, are comparative to drugs that are already in the market, if we can show that we're doing that—meanwhile, we’ve got to bring the very expensive oncology products, in order to have patient compliance—and we negotiate with the government saying, give us relief on those tariffs, I believe that you would get that because it's a matter of patient compliance.

We cannot do it in the United States, because if you go through Phase I, Phase II, Phase III clinical studies, it takes a long time to get final approval, so sometimes we're going to have to import certain products that have already been approved in order for us to make sure patients have the medication while we're doing the clinical studies. That's a good case where we can argue that, no, we shouldn't have to pay the tariffs, and I believe the government would come and agree with us.

In the final part of his Pharma Commerce video interview, Dave Malenfant, a healthcare supply chain expert, emphasizes that patient access must remain the top priority, even amid steep tariffs, citing cases like orphan drugs and oncology treatments where government flexibility is essential.

Pharma Manufacturing Reshoring Accelerates as Tariffs and Policies Drive Billions in US Investments

With potential tariffs reaching 250% and new federal initiatives like SAPIR and most-favored nation pricing reshaping incentives, this explainer explores how major drugmakers are pouring billions into US facilities. 

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