Express Scripts Names New Head of Independent Pharmacy Affairs

Express Scripts, the pharmacy benefits management (PBM) business of The Cigna Group's Evernorth, has named Stephanie Smith Cooney, PharmD, as the new senior director of independent pharmacy affairs.

Building on the momentum of Express Scripts' IndependentRx Initiative announced in April of this year, Cooney will help grow the company's efforts to support the role independent pharmacists play as a front line of care in many local communities. By expanding pharmacy benefits and increasing access to a range of preventive care services at the pharmacy counter, patients could benefit through lower costs and added convenience.

As an independent pharmacist for nearly 20 years, Cooney has a track record of leading and managing a community pharmacy. She most recently acted as strategic consultant for independent pharmacy leaders and owners to improve operations and develop innovations.

Additionally, she will lead the newly established Independent Pharmacy Advisory Committee, which will convene a diverse group of pharmacy leaders across rural, urban and suburban areas. The advisory committee will focus on continuing to drive competitive reimbursement practices, learning from each other's business models, and creating solutions that leverage independent pharmacists to help alleviate provider shortages across the health care delivery system.

"I am excited to bring my community pharmacy background to Express Scripts as we work together with independent pharmacies providing critical care and access to patients," said Cooney. "Collaboration and innovation will be key parts of our success moving forward. I look forward to partnering with independent pharmacists in this new role."