Beyond the Drip Podcast

In this episode of Beyond the Drip, George W. Kridner IV, PharmD, President & CEO of Acelpa Health, joins co-hosts Jon Love, Pamela McIntyre, and Brandon Carpenter to discuss specialty pharmacy growth, patient continuity, data, and the opportunities and challenges shaping the industry.

Key Takeaways

• Specialty pharmacy leaders benefit from combining clinical expertise with business skills.
• Managed care relationships played a key role in California Specialty Pharmacy’s growth.
• Access to limited distribution drugs can help patients receive more coordinated, continuous care.
• Smaller and midsize pharmacies can stand out through local presence, flexibility, and the ability to respond quickly to patient and manufacturer needs.
• Payers and manufacturers look for different measures of value, from savings and operational performance to clinical outcomes and treatment continuity.
• Acquisitions can make data integration difficult. Pharmacies need to harmonize systems while protecting the patient experience.
• AI may help pharmacies improve efficiency as services expand and margins tighten, but its impact on patient communication and care needs close attention.
• Reimbursement and policy changes create uncertainty, while new therapies, expanded pharmacist scope of practice, and thoughtfully applied AI offer opportunities for the profession.

About the Guest Speaker:

George W. Kridner IV, PharmD, is a healthcare executive with more than 25 years of experience across specialty pharmacy, pharmacy operations, healthcare strategy, and business growth. He has led strategic and operational initiatives focused on expanding patient access, optimizing specialty pharmacy services, building high-performing organizations, and advancing innovative care models within complex healthcare environments. As President and Chief Executive Officer of Acelpa Health, George leads the company's national network of specialty pharmacy and infusion providers, overseeing strategy, operations, and business development with a focus on delivering exceptional patient care, strengthening manufacturer partnerships, and driving sustainable growth.

Since joining Acelpa Health more than a decade ago, George has succeeded in growing the organization from a single-state specialty pharmacy provider into a national specialty pharmacy platform serving patients, providers, payors, and pharmaceutical manufacturers across the country.

George has held senior executive leadership positions at UnitedHealth Group and CVS Health. He also served as Chief Clinical Officer and Chief Strategy Officer at A-Med Health Care, now Kroger Specialty Pharmacy, where he helped shape clinical strategy and expand specialty pharmacy services. George earned his Doctor of Pharmacy degree from the University of the Pacific.

In this episode of Beyond the Drip, Luba Sobolevsky, President & CEO, of the Immunoglobulin National Society (IgNS) joins co-hosts Jon Love, Brian O’Sullivan, Pamela McIntyre, and Brandon Carpenter to discuss the current state of immunoglobulin therapy, and the challenges emerging as demand continues to grow.

Key Takeaways

• Immunoglobulin therapy continues to grow, with more than 70 clinical indications and additional uses under investigation.
• The shift toward home care, ambulatory infusion centers, and other alternate sites is accelerating faster than many providers can adapt.
• Ig therapy is highly complex. Providers need specialized training, clinical competency, operational protocols, and appropriate accreditation to deliver it safely.
• Payer policies and step-therapy requirements can create unnecessary barriers, particularly when patients are required to try IVIG before receiving SCIG.
• Better communication between payers, providers, clinicians, manufacturers, and patient advocates is essential to improving access and reducing inappropriate denials.
• Patient-satisfaction scores alone do not provide a complete picture of care. Providers should also measure adverse reactions, quality of life, treatment continuity, and clinical outcomes.
• AI can improve data analysis and administrative efficiency, but relying on it to make coverage decisions without individualized human review could put patients at risk.
• IgNS is helping the industry establish stronger standards, measure clinical competency, educate providers, and keep patient safety at the center of continued growth.

Guest Speaker:

Luba Sobolevsky, Pharm.D., IgCP®, President | CEO at Immunoglobulin National Society

Dr. Luba Sobolevsky is the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Immunoglobulin National Society (IgNS), the central, standards-setting healthcare organization in the field of Ig therapy and biologics. Dr. Sobolevsky has over 25 years of diverse leadership experience across the healthcare field, including clinical practice, education, and pharmaceutical industry. She oversees IgNS’ strategic initiatives and the development of comprehensive programs and resources that promote best clinical practices and optimal patient outcomes. She is responsible for expanding and improving interdisciplinary and industry-wide collaboration and alliances. Dr. Sobolevsky leads IgNS’ Patient 360 division, dedicated to patient advocacy, education and outcomes research. She has been actively engaged in research and publication in areas of optimizing immunoglobulin practice, patient experience, health equity, healthcare team competencies, and the improvement of screening and diagnosis of rare diseases. Dr. Sobolevsky holds a PharmD degree from the University of Southern California and a BA from the University of California, Los Angeles.

Welcome to Beyond the Drip, where we dive into the fascinating world of Infusion Pharmacy, from Home Infusion to Ambulatory Infusion Centers. Expect topical conversations on the latest happenings in Infusion from industry leaders who will bring you the latest news, trends and innovations in the infusion industry, as well as expert insights and stories to keep you informed and inspired.

In Episode 19, the hosts sit down with Dr. Sohail Masood, Founder, CEO and Chairman of KabaFusion, to discuss the experiences and principles that shaped his career in home infusion.

From arriving in the United States at 19 with little money to building national infusion companies, Dr. Masood shares how persistence, patient advocacy and a strong moral framework influenced his approach to leadership and growth. He reflects on the risks behind some of his biggest decisions, including continuing to provide IVIG to patients despite reimbursement uncertainty, as well as the lessons he has carried into KabaFusion’s expansion.

The conversation also explores revenue cycle management, payer relationships, IVIG and the growing role of technology and data in home infusion, offering a broader look at both the business and clinical challenges shaping the industry today.

Key Takeaways

• Patient care has remained central to Dr. Masood’s decisions, even when protecting access to treatment required significant financial risk.
• KabaFusion’s national growth followed a deliberate “smiley face” strategy focused on major population centers.
• Bad debt and DSO are critical RCM metrics, but many revenue cycle problems begin upstream with intake, authorization and documentation.
• Dr. Masood believes IVIG will remain an important therapy despite payer pressure and the emergence of newer treatment options.
• Technology and data will play a growing role in improving operations, reporting and decision making across home infusion.

The episode shows how Dr. Masood’s patient-first philosophy has remained consistent even as his companies have grown and the industry has become more complex.

For home infusion leaders, his story offers a clear message: build strong financial and operational systems, invest in people and technology and pursue growth without losing sight of the patients the organization exists to serve. It is a perspective shaped by decades of experience and by a belief that financial success should be the result of doing good work, not the reason for doing it.

Want to hear the stories and lessons behind Dr. Masood’s remarkable journey? Listen to the full episode of Beyond the Drip for his perspective on building KabaFusion, putting patients first and navigating the future of home infusion.

Guest Speaker:

Dr. Sohail Masood runs his businesses on a belief he's held since pharmacy school: grounding care firmly in empathy for both patients and healthcare professionals by restoring the humanity essential to quality care and better outcomes.

Prior to him starting Crescent Healthcare, patients with rare neuromuscular diseases had nowhere to turn but the hospital. He created the market and the reimbursement pathways that let them heal at home with IVIG.

Patient care has consistently been central to his mission. In 1997, when Medicare withdrew coverage for IVIG treatment for CIDP patients, he personally committed $2 million to ensure uninterrupted access to therapy, while simultaneously advocating before Medicare to reverse the decision, an effort that ultimately succeeded. His advocacy also helped secure Medicare coverage of IVIG for Pemphigus and Pemphigoid in 2003, expanding access beyond CIDP. When an IVIG shortage stalled a landmark Stiff Person Syndrome study, he donated the drug himself to keep the research moving forward.

Dr. Masood and pharmacist Mona Masood founded Ultracare in 1992, the seed that grew into Crescent Healthcare in 1995. He founded MAAS Medical to develop a state-of-the-art home infusion pump which was acquired by Baxter in 2007. He founded KabaFusion in 2010, now the largest independently owned privately held home infusion company in the U.S. with 33 pharmacies nationwide providing care to patients in 48 states.

Achievements and Honors:
3x Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year. 1999 for Crescent Healthcare- 2017 and 2023 for KabaFusion.
2022 Gene Graves Lifetime Achievement Award. The National Home Infusion Association's highest honor, recognizing his 35+ years advocating for patients and the industry.
2019 USC Mann Most Distinguished Alumni Award. Honored by his alma mater for his philanthropy and service.

Welcome to Beyond the Drip, where we dive into the fascinating world of Infusion Pharmacy, from Home Infusion to Ambulatory Infusion Centers. Expect topical conversations on the latest happenings in Infusion from industry leaders who will bring you the latest news, trends and innovations in the infusion industry, as well as expert insights and stories to keep you informed and inspired.

In episode 18 of Beyond the Drip, industry experts Tammy Bladey and Brandy Allen from ACHC (Accreditation Commission for Health Care)share how accreditation is becoming a real strategic advantage, and how providers can use it to improve care, lower risk, and stay competitive.

Co-hosts, Jon Love, Paula Roth, and Brian O'Sullivan talk with the guests about what survey day really looks like, why team preparation matters, and how to make accreditation part of everyday operations instead of a last-minute scramble.

Tammy and Brandy also explain how to build a stronger culture of compliance, track outcomes, and use accreditation as a tool for both quality and growth.You’ll learn why staying on top of accreditation matters for licensing, reimbursement, and payer relationships, and how the right approach can help protect your organization from costly surprises. Whether you’re an owner, manager, or clinician, this conversation offers practical guidance you can actually use.Tammy brings more than 30 years of pharmacy leadership experience across closed-door pharmacy, infusion, and specialty settings, and now supports accreditation efforts for ACHC. Brandy adds deep operational and standards expertise, giving listeners a grounded look at how accreditation works in the real world.If you’re ready to see accreditation as more than a requirement, this episode will help you understand why it matters and how to use it to strengthen your infusion practice.

Unlock the truth about accreditation in the infusion industry. It’s more than a checkbox, it’s a game-changer for patient safety, regulatory compliance, and business growth.

Featured topics:

• ACHC accreditation
• Infusion pharmacy standards
• Specialty pharmacy services
• Patient safety
• Regulatory compliance
• Survey preparation
• Continuous readiness
• Quality management
• Outcomes tracking
• Payer acceptance
• Reimbursement strategy
• Business growth
• Accreditation as a competitive advantage
• Team-based preparation
• Medicare DMEPOS standards

Guest Speakers:

Tammy Blady, RPh, HDDP - Corporate Pharmacy Surveyor
Tammy Blady, RPh, HDDP, is dedicated to ensuring quality and safety measures are upheld across pharmacy operations. With over 37 years in pharmacy, she brings a depth of knowledge to her role as a Corporate Surveyor with ACHC, a leading national pharmacy accreditor. Her extensive experience — particularly in sterile compounding and hospital and long-term care operations — enables her to connect on a peer-to-peer basis with the pharmacies she serves. Ms. Blady is committed to providing pharmacies a positive, educational accreditation survey experience that promotes a culture of excellence and guides operational and outcome improvements.

Brandi Allen, RPh - Corporate Pharmacy Liaison
Brandi Allen is the Corporate Pharmacy Liaison at ACHC, bringing more than 30 years of experience across infusion, specialty, long-term care, and retail pharmacy. Throughout her career she has built a reputation for strong leadership, operational efficiency, and a commitment to advancing quality patient care. During her four years with ACHC, she has applied her extensive management background and broad industry expertise to support accreditation, quality improvement, and regulatory excellence.Outside of her professional career, Brandi enjoys spending time outdoors. An avid scuba diver and certified scuba instructor, she loves exploring the underwater world, traveling with her husband, and embracing new adventures whenever possible.

Welcome to Beyond the Drip, where we dive into the fascinating world of Infusion Pharmacy, from Home Infusion to Ambulatory Infusion Centers. Expect topical conversations on the latest happenings in Infusion from industry leaders who will bring you the latest news, trends and innovations in the infusion industry, as well as expert insights and stories to keep you informed and inspired.

In Episode 17 of Beyond the Drip, co-hosts Jon Love, Pamela McIntyre and Brandon Carpenter sit down with innovators from the home infusion industry to discuss how connected infusion technology is reshaping patient care, compliance monitoring and clinical decision-making in the home. Joined by Mallory Nelson, PharmD – Director of Customer Experience and Product Development at Eitan Medical, and Scott Shepard, PharmD, RPH, BCSCP, IgCP – a home infusion pharmacist at a major health system in the Northeast, the conversation explores the growing role of smart infusion pumps and real-time data visibility as providers continue expanding more complex therapies into the home setting. The episode dives into how connected pumps can improve patient adherence, support nurses and pharmacists, streamline operations and help clinicians better understand what’s happening between patient visits.

Featured Topics:
• The first ambulatory infusion pump in the U.S. designed to send infusion data back to providers
• How connected pumps may improve adherence tracking and patient safety
• Real-world operational challenges in home infusion and pump management
• Using infusion data to support better clinical decision-making
• The evolving role of technology in home infusion and specialty pharmacy
• Future opportunities for patient engagement and care collaboration

Chapters

00:00 Welcome to Beyond the Drip
02:37 Introduction to Aton Medical
03:55 Meet the Guests
06:38 The Importance of Home Infusion
09:37 Innovations in Infusion Technology
11:30 Patient Safety and Data Insights
14:19 Operational Gains with Smart Pumps
17:05 Addressing Patient Safety Concerns
19:01 The Future of Home Infusion
21:48 Conclusion and Key Takeaways
23:01 Real-Time Patient Monitoring and Compliance
29:10 Enhancing Clinical Decision-Making with Data
35:20 Integrating Patient Care and Technology
43:38 Future Innovations in Infusion Therapy

Welcome to Beyond the Drip, where we dive into the fascinating world of Infusion Pharmacy, from Home Infusion to Ambulatory Infusion Centers. Expect topical conversations on the latest happenings in Infusion from industry leaders who will bring you the latest news, trends and innovations in the infusion industry, as well as expert insights and stories to keep you informed and inspired.

In this episode of Beyond the Drip, Jon Love and the crew sit down with returning guest Connie Sullivan, President & CEO of the National Home Infusion Association, for a grounded conversation on where the industry stands heading into 2026.

From mounting pressure on drug pricing to the realities of Medicare coverage gaps, Connie breaks down the forces shaping access, reimbursement, and care delivery. The group also dives into the growing role of home infusion in rare disease treatment, what recent legislation does (and doesn’t) fix, and why providers still face complexity at every step of the revenue cycle.
AI is everywhere—but where does it actually fit in infusion today? And what should providers be cautious about?

If you’re trying to keep up with policy changes, payer dynamics, and the operational challenges behind the scenes, this episode brings clarity without the fluff.

Key Takeaways:

• The growing impact of drug pricing pressure—and how it’s creating instability across access, quality, and reimbursement models

• Record attendance at NHIA’s conference and why this year’s sessions matter given rapid policy and regulatory changes

• What the Joe Fiandra Act actually does—and why it doesn’t fully expand access due to structural limitations (like the pump requirement)

• Why Medicare coverage remains a major barrier to home infusion, especially once patients turn 65

• The shift toward treating rare diseases in the home—and how the industry has moved from debating safety to focusing on value and quality of life

• Why infusion revenue cycle is uniquely complex, with no standardized rules and heavy front-end dependency

• The role of advocacy: continuity across administrations, bipartisan support, and the growing influence of state-level action

• AI’s practical role today—best suited for repetitive tasks, with real opportunity in helping providers better communicate clinical impact

• The need to better articulate the value of pharmacists—not just tasks, but their direct impact on patient outcomes

• Rising scrutiny of payers, vertical integration, and lack of competition—and what that could mean for future reform

Welcome to Beyond the Drip, where we dive into the fascinating world of Infusion Pharmacy, from Home Infusion Therapy (HIT) to Ambulatory Infusion Centers (AICs) and Infusion Suites (AIS). Expect topical conversations on the latest happenings in Infusion from industry leaders who will bring you the latest news, trends and innovations in the infusion industry, as well as expert insights and stories to keep you informed and inspired.

In this episode of Beyond the Drip, we sit down with Idara Umoh, founder of Echelon Health Partners, to pull back the curtain on the "hidden" economics of the infusion industry. With nearly 30 years of experience—from the halls of government policy to the front lines of health systems—Idara brings a perspective that most leaders miss.We move past the buzzwords to talk about the real-world pressure of market saturation and why chasing "scale" can sometimes be the very thing that breaks an operational core. If you've felt the squeeze of shrinking margins or the weight of vertical integration, this conversation is for you. We’re breaking down:

• The Private Equity Trap: Why growing too fast can lead to "operational fragility" and how to protect your mission while you scale.
• The Revenue Mirage: Why traditional KPIs might be lying to you about your actual financial health.
• Cash is King: The critical shift from tracking revenue to managing cash velocity and net margins.
• The Patient Advantage: Why human-centric care isn't just "nice to have"—it’s your best defense against competitor erosion.

Whether you’re a clinician, an owner, or an investor, Idara’s insights will help you spot the warning signs before they become crises. This isn’t just a market update; it’s a survival guide for thriving in the future of infusion.

Welcome to Beyond the Drip, where we dive into the fascinating world of Infusion Pharmacy, from Home Infusion to Ambulatory Infusion Centers. Expect topical conversations on the latest happenings in Infusion from industry leaders who will bring you the latest news, trends and innovations in the infusion industry, as well as expert insights and stories to keep you informed and inspired.

As the year comes to a close, Beyond the Drip delivers a forward-looking conversation on the evolving infusion and specialty pharmacy landscape. In the final episode of the year, our co-hosts sit down with Vic Simianu, CEO and Founder of Sphinx Strategies, to discuss his path into infusion, the mounting pressures on independent pharmacies and what the next three to five years will require from industry leaders.

With a background in biotech, finance and early-stage startups, Vic entered specialty pharmacy just as it was emerging as a $60 billion industry, which is now a trillion-dollar market. That experience shaped his decision to launch Sphinx Strategies, recognizing that independent pharmacies needed a way to stay competitive without billion-dollar budgets. Today, Sphinx helps pharmacies strengthen operations, data strategy and long-term growth in an increasingly complex market.
Key Takeaways

• The infusion and specialty pharmacy market has rapidly evolved, increasing pressure on independent providers to adapt and differentiate.

• Clear value propositions and niche focus are essential as pharmacies face closures and tighter margins.

• Integrated operations, clinical expertise and data strategy are critical for long-term success and must be driven by leadership.

• Strong data and disease-state expertise improve access to manufacturers, especially as new cell and gene therapies come to market.

• Pharmacies should optimize and leverage existing data and workflows before expanding services or sites of care.

• Site-of-care strategies must align with patient volume, provider preferences and operational scale to be successful.

At its core, this episode highlights a clear message: sustainable growth in infusion pharmacy comes from operational excellence, smart data strategy and focused differentiation. Vic explains that Sphinx Strategies partners with pharmacies to identify missing puzzle pieces, whether that’s strategy, valuation, due diligence or long-term planning, so they can stay competitive and build lasting ROI.
Don’t miss this final Beyond the Drip episode of the year for a discussion on where infusion pharmacy is headed and how independent providers can position themselves for the future. Tune in now!

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Vic Simianu, Founder & CEO of Sphinx Strategies
Vic Simianu is the Founder and CEO of Sphinx Strategies, a consulting group focused on building highly integrated specialty pharmacy operations. One of the industry’s earliest ACHC-Certified Specialty Pharmacy Consultants, Vic brings deep expertise in accreditation strategy, operational excellence, and oncology-focused specialty services. His experience spans independent pharmacies, large IDNs, ACOs, and publicly traded organizations. Vic holds an MBA from Indiana University Kelley School of Business and leads Sphinx Strategies from Boulder, Colorado.

Beyond the Drip Co-hosts:

Paula Roth, VP of Pharmacy Services at Prochant
As Vice President of Pharmacy Operations at Prochant, Paula leads an expert team focused on enhancing the home-based care industry through innovative technology and streamlined processes. With more than 20 years of experience in revenue cycle management for alternate sites of care, Paula leverages technology and teams to ensure clients achieve or exceed their financial targets.

Jon Love, President & Chief Growth Officer at MedEdge Solutions
Jon Love joins MedEdge with leadership experience in the infusion and specialty pharmacy industries. He has previously served in sales at WellSky, chief operating officer at Rock-Pond Solutions and senior VP of pharmacy services at Prochant.

Pamela McIntyre, founder and owner of Expert Infusion Nurse Consulting
With 40 years of experience in infusion nursing, Pam founded Expert Infusion Nurse Consulting to advance excellence in infusion and mentor other infusion professionals. Her certifications include CRNI, IgCN, OCN and VA-BC, and she has an immersive background in home infusion and ambulatory infusion in the fields of acute and chronic care, including oncology nursing.

Brandon Carpenter, President of MedEdge Solutions
Brandon Carpenter is the owner and founder of MedEdge Solutions. With more than 12 years of experience in pharmacy solutions, process improvement and data analytics, Brandon takes an active role in each of our projects. Prior to forming MedEdge, Brandon was the Director of Products and Professional Services at Rock-Pond Solutions where he worked with over 250 pharmacies nationwide to solve problems ranging from system integrations, financial reporting, 340B, Limited Drug Distribution, software management and more. He is a graduate of the University of Central Arkansas where he received his bachelor’s in business & information systems, as well as his Master of Business Administration.

Brian O’Sullivan, President of The O’Sullivan Group
Brian O’Sullivan formed The O’Sullivan Group, Inc. in February 1999 to serve health care providers with managed care and provider business development services. Over the years, The O’Sullivan Group has also been sought out by Medicare Advantage and Managed Medicaid plans to assist with network development needs. His vision for The O’Sullivan Group, Inc. was to bring real world know-how by offering the same level of service and expertise for both large and small companies that are enjoyed by major Fortune 1000 organizations.

In this episode of Beyond the Drip, we sit down with Marc Stranz, PharmD, one of the most influential voices in the infusion pharmacy world. With a career spanning five decades, Marc shares a rare inside look at how sterile compounding and home infusion have evolved—from the early days of parenteral nutrition to the multi-billion-dollar specialty infusion landscape we know today. Marc recounts his beginnings in sterile compounding, the launch of his first home infusion company in the early 1980s, and his leadership roles across national providers including Coram, Bioscrip, and BioMatrix. He also discusses the formation of Stranz Crossley Inc., the consulting firm he cofounded in 2018 that now advises manufacturers, wholesalers, insurers, investors, and providers across the specialty and infusion sectors. Through stories, lessons, and industry insights, Marc reflects on the innovations that shaped infusion pharmacy, the importance of mentorship and collaboration, and what future leaders should prepare for as the field continues to evolve. Whether you're in infusion pharmacy, home infusion, specialty pharmacy, or broader home-based care, this conversation offers invaluable perspective from someone who helped build the industry. Highlights

• Marc’s unexpected entry into pharmacy and early work in drug information
• Founding a home infusion company in 1982
• The shift from glass bottles to advanced home infusion technologies
• The growth of NHIA and the rise of home-based infusion care
• Lessons from leadership roles across national providers
• Marc’s take on upcoming challenges and opportunities in infusion pharmacy

Beyond the Drip: Elevating Ig Therapy Through Education and Standards
Welcome to Beyond the Drip, where we dive into the fascinating world of Infusion Pharmacy, from Home Infusion to Ambulatory Infusion Centers. Expect topical conversations on the latest happenings in Infusion from industry leaders who will bring you the latest news, trends and innovations in the infusion industry, as well as expert insights and stories to keep you informed and inspired.
In episode 12 of Beyond the Drip, hosts Jon Love, Paula Roth, Brandon Carpenter, Pam McIntyre and Brian O’Sullivan welcome Luba Sobolevski, CEO and founder of IgNS, and Chief Clinical Officer Amy Clarke to discuss the evolving world of immunoglobulin (Ig) therapy and the 14th annual IgNS conference.
The conversation highlights why IgNS was founded: to fill critical gaps in clinician education and standardize practices for a complex, lifelong therapy. Unlike fields such as oncology, Ig therapy historically offered limited training, leaving nurses and pharmacists underprepared to manage patient care and navigate regulatory and payer requirements.
The IgNS conference, often called the “Super Bowl” of Ig therapy, brings together every sector of the industry from manufacturers and distributors to clinicians, pharmacists and infusion centers. Attendees can choose from business and clinical tracks, gaining guidance on revenue cycle management, documentation and legally defensible standards of practice.
The discussion also explores how AI and technology are transforming care, from speech-to-text documentation and data analysis to wearable monitoring, while emphasizing that clinical judgment remains irreplaceable. Patient-focused initiatives, including education and surveys, ensure standards translate into safer, more effective care.
Key Takeaways:

• Ig therapy is highly complex, with multiple indications, dosing protocols and routes of administration, creating unique challenges for clinicians and payers.

• Standardized education and competency frameworks help clinicians deliver safer, patient-centered care.

• The IgNS conference provides actionable guidance for clinical and revenue cycle professionals, including documentation, prior authorizations and payer collaboration.

• AI can streamline workflows and enhance decision-making but must be paired with expert clinical oversight.

• Patient education and feedback are essential to measure the impact of standards on care and outcomes.

This episode offers insights into how IgNS is advancing Ig therapy standards, supporting clinicians and improving patient care. Listen to the full conversation on Beyond the Drip and subscribe to stay informed on the innovations shaping infusion care.

Guest Speakers:
Luba Sobolevsky, Pharm.D., IgCP®, President | CEO at Immunoglobulin National Society
Dr. Luba Sobolevsky is the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Immunoglobulin National Society (IgNS), the central, standards-setting healthcare organization in the field of Ig therapy and biologics. Dr. Sobolevsky has over 25 years of diverse leadership experience across the healthcare field, including clinical practice, education, and pharmaceutical industry. She oversees IgNS’ strategic initiatives and the development of comprehensive programs and resources that promote best clinical practices and optimal patient outcomes. She is responsible for expanding and improving interdisciplinary and industry-wide collaboration and alliances.

Dr. Sobolevsky leads IgNS’ Patient 360 division, dedicated to patient advocacy, education and outcomes research. She has been actively engaged in research and publication in areas of optimizing immunoglobulin practice, patient experience, health equity, healthcare team competencies, and the improvement of screening and diagnosis of rare diseases. Dr. Sobolevsky holds a PharmD degree from the University of Southern California and a BA from the University of California, Los Angeles.

Amy E. Clarke, DNP RN IgCN®, Chief Clinical Officer at Immunoglobulin National Society
Amy Clarke brings over 30 years of nursing experience, with a strong foundation in both clinical care and operational leadership. Her work has focused extensively on advancing immunoglobulin and infusion nursing practice, and she has had the opportunity to collaborate and present alongside respected colleagues at national and international conferences, including those hosted by NHIA, INS, ACAAI, and, of course, the Immunoglobulin National Society (IgNS).

Dr. Clarke has contributed to the development of best practices in immunoglobulin therapy through co-authored publications and her involvement on several IgNS committees, including those responsible for the Ig Therapy Standards of Practice and the certification programs for nurses and pharmacists.

Beyond the Drip Co-hosts:

Paula Roth, VP of Pharmacy Services at Prochant
As Vice President of Pharmacy Operations at Prochant, Paula leads an expert team focused on enhancing the home-based care industry through innovative technology and streamlined processes. With more than 20 years of experience in revenue cycle management for alternate sites of care, Paula leverages technology and teams to ensure clients achieve or exceed their financial targets.

Jon Love, President & Chief Growth Officer at MedEdge Solutions
Jon Love joins MedEdge with leadership experience in the infusion and specialty pharmacy industries. He has previously served in sales at WellSky, chief operating officer at Rock-Pond Solutions and senior VP of pharmacy services at Prochant.

Pamela McIntyre, founder and owner of Expert Infusion Nurse Consulting
With 40 years of experience in infusion nursing, Pam founded Expert Infusion Nurse Consulting to advance excellence in infusion and mentor other infusion professionals. Her certifications include CRNI, IgCN, OCN and VA-BC, and she has an immersive background in home infusion and ambulatory infusion in the fields of acute and chronic care, including oncology nursing.

Brandon Carpenter, President of MedEdge Solutions
Brandon Carpenter is the owner and founder of MedEdge Solutions. With more than 12 years of experience in pharmacy solutions, process improvement and data analytics, Brandon takes an active role in each of our projects. Prior to forming MedEdge, Brandon was the Director of Products and Professional Services at Rock-Pond Solutions where he worked with over 250 pharmacies nationwide to solve problems ranging from system integrations, financial reporting, 340B, Limited Drug Distribution, software management and more. He is a graduate of the University of Central Arkansas where he received his bachelor’s in business & information systems, as well as his Master of Business Administration.

Brian O’Sullivan, President of The O’Sullivan Group
Brian O’Sullivan formed The O’Sullivan Group, Inc. in February 1999 to serve health care providers with managed care and provider business development services. Over the years, The O’Sullivan Group has also been sought out by Medicare Advantage and Managed Medicaid plans to assist with network development needs. His vision for The O’Sullivan Group, Inc. was to bring real world know-how by offering the same level of service and expertise for both large and small companies that are enjoyed by major Fortune 1000 organizations.

In this episode of "Beyond the Drip," we dive into the dynamic world of home infusion with Rowena Birnel of Infusion Solutions. Discover the challenges faced by the industry, from navigating complex payer contracts to the evolving landscape of technology and patient care. Rowena shares her inspiring journey of resilience and innovation, highlighting the opportunities for growth and the importance of putting patients first. Join us as we explore how home infusion is transforming healthcare, one patient at a time.

Welcome to Beyond the Drip, where we dive into the fascinating world of Infusion Pharmacy, from Home Infusion to Ambulatory Infusion Centers. Expect topical conversations on the latest happenings in Infusion from industry leaders who will bring you the latest news, trends and innovations in the infusion industry, as well as expert insights and stories to keep you informed and inspired.
In this episode, the hosts explore a topic that’s becoming impossible to ignore across the infusion therapy landscape: the escalating talent crisis. Host Jon Love noticed that, while many anticipated themes emerged at NHIA, one issue seemed to rise above the rest - finding and keeping skilled professionals in infusion pharmacy.
This episode dives deep into the roots of the problem, examining the shrinking pipeline of pharmacy professionals, increasing burnout and the complexity of the infusion model that demands both clinical and technical excellence. From the unique challenges of revenue cycle management to the alarming decline in pharmacy school enrollment, the conversation is a wake-up call for infusion providers and a call to action.
The discussion also highlights how organizations must balance human expertise with smart technology. While automation and AI can alleviate some of the burden, certain roles, especially clinical ones, simply cannot be replaced. The key, according to the hosts, lies in building intentional systems, investing in talent and preparing for a future where skilled infusion professionals are in short supply.
Key Takeaways:

• Infusion pharmacy roles require both clinical knowledge and operational expertise, highlighting the need for cross-trained professionals in a highly specialized field.

• Limited exposure to infusion in pharmacy education, coupled with declining pharmacy school enrollment, is shrinking the pipeline of qualified professionals.

• High burnout rates and increasing turnover among experienced staff are intensifying staffing challenges and compromising care delivery.

• Understanding the unique revenue cycle demands of infusion—such as payer rules and drug billing—is essential for financial sustainability and growth.

• Strategic use of automation can relieve staffing pressure, but success depends on integrating technology with expert oversight and structured workflows.

The talent crisis isn’t going away anytime soon, but this episode of Beyond the Drip offers a roadmap for navigating it. Whether you’re a pharmacy leader, clinician or revenue cycle manager, the insights shared here can help you reframe the problem, refocus your strategy and reinvest in the people who power your infusion business.

Hear the full conversation on Beyond the Drip to explore how leaders are tackling the infusion talent crisis and what steps you can take to build a stronger, more resilient team. Listen now and subscribe to stay informed on the innovations transforming infusion care.

Beyond the Drip Co-hosts:

Paula Roth, VP of Pharmacy Services at Prochant
As Vice President of Pharmacy Operations at Prochant, Paula leads an expert team focused on enhancing the home-based care industry through innovative technology and streamlined processes. With more than 20 years of experience in revenue cycle management for alternate sites of care, Paula leverages technology and teams to ensure clients achieve or exceed their financial targets.

Jon Love, President & Chief Growth Officer at MedEdge Solutions
Jon Love joins MedEdge with leadership experience in the infusion and specialty pharmacy industries. He has previously served in sales at WellSky, chief operating officer at Rock-Pond Solutions and senior VP of pharmacy services at Prochant.

Pamela McIntyre, founder and owner of Expert Infusion Nurse Consulting
With 40 years of experience in infusion nursing, Pam founded Expert Infusion Nurse Consulting to advance excellence in infusion and mentor other infusion professionals. Her certifications include CRNI, IgCN, OCN and VA-BC, and she has an immersive background in home infusion and ambulatory infusion in the fields of acute and chronic care, including oncology nursing.

Brandon Carpenter, President of MedEdge Solutions
Brandon Carpenter is the owner and founder of MedEdge Solutions. With more than 12 years of experience in pharmacy solutions, process improvement and data analytics, Brandon takes an active role in each of our projects. Prior to forming MedEdge, Brandon was the Director of Products and Professional Services at Rock-Pond Solutions where he worked with over 250 pharmacies nationwide to solve problems ranging from system integrations, financial reporting, 340B, Limited Drug Distribution, software management and more. He is a graduate of the University of Central Arkansas where he received his bachelor’s in business & information systems, as well as his Master of Business Administration.

Brian O’Sullivan, President of The O’Sullivan Group
Brian O’Sullivan formed The O’Sullivan Group, Inc. in February 1999 to serve health care providers with managed care and provider business development services. Over the years, The O’Sullivan Group has also been sought out by Medicare Advantage and Managed Medicaid plans to assist with network development needs. His vision for The O’Sullivan Group, Inc. was to bring real world know-how by offering the same level of service and expertise for both large and small companies that are enjoyed by major Fortune 1000 organizations.

Welcome to Beyond the Drip, where we dive into the fascinating world of Infusion Pharmacy, from Home Infusion to Ambulatory Infusion Centers. Expect topical conversations on the latest happenings in Infusion from industry leaders who will bring you the latest news, trends and innovations in the infusion industry, as well as expert insights and stories to keep you informed and inspired.

As we step into 2025, the latest episode of Beyond the Drip sets the stage for a year filled with both opportunities and challenges in the infusion and pharmacy space. The hosts reflect on the key events of 2024 that shaped the industry, including major disruptions like the Change Healthcare cyberattack, supply chain issues and regulatory shifts. They also explore the pressing topics that will define 2025, such as drug pricing, revenue cycle management (RCM) hurdles and the expanding role of artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare.

Key Takeaways:

Looking Back at 2024

• The Change Healthcare cyberattack disrupted revenue cycles and patient care, with some providers still recovering.

• Supply chain disparities, highlighted by issues in North Carolina’s manufacturing plants, revealed inequities in home-based care access.

• Healthcare consolidation and private equity influence remain hot topics, with concerns about fair treatment in regulatory decisions.

• The industry showcased resilience despite these setbacks, adapting to rapid changes.

What’s Ahead in 2025?

• Biologic products are growing rapidly, creating challenges in training staff and ensuring proper reimbursement.

• Providers struggle with securing payment for high-cost drugs due to unclear payor guidelines.

• The new administration’s approach to healthcare policy remains unpredictable.

• While AI has immense potential in RCM, patient safety risks must be considered, particularly with AI-driven data repositories becoming prime hacking targets.

• The hosts emphasize the importance of consistently tracking industry news to stay ahead of evolving regulations and trends.

The Beyond the Drip team encourages providers to proactively address these issues by diversifying vendors, investing in proper training and carefully evaluating AI applications. With so much in flux, adaptability and informed decision-making will be key drivers of success in 2025. Stay tuned for more episodes as we continue to explore the shifting landscape of infusion and specialty pharmacy.

Beyond the Drip Co-hosts:P

aula Roth, VP of Pharmacy Services at ProchantAs Vice President of Pharmacy Operations at Prochant, Paula leads an expert team focused on enhancing the home-based care industry through innovative technology and streamlined processes. With more than 20 years of experience in revenue cycle management for alternate sites of care, Paula leverages technology and teams to ensure clients achieve or exceed their financial targets.

Jon Love, President & Chief Growth Officer at MedEdge Solutions
Jon Love joins MedEdge with leadership experience in the infusion and specialty pharmacy industries. He has previously served in sales at WellSky, chief operating officer at Rock-Pond Solutions and senior VP of pharmacy services at Prochant.

Pamela McIntyre, founder and owner of Expert Infusion Nurse Consulting
With 40 years of experience in infusion nursing, Pam founded Expert Infusion Nurse Consulting to advance excellence in infusion and mentor other infusion professionals. Her certifications include CRNI, IgCN, OCN and VA-BC, and she has an immersive background in home infusion and ambulatory infusion in the fields of acute and chronic care, including oncology nursing.

Brandon Carpenter, President of MedEdge Solutions
Brandon Carpenter is the owner and founder of MedEdge Solutions. With more than 12 years of experience in pharmacy solutions, process improvement and data analytics, Brandon takes an active role in each of our projects. Prior to forming MedEdge, Brandon was the Director of Products and Professional Services at Rock-Pond Solutions where he worked with over 250 pharmacies nationwide to solve problems ranging from system integrations, financial reporting, 340B, Limited Drug Distribution, software management and more. He is a graduate of the University of Central Arkansas where he received his bachelor’s in business & information systems, as well as his Master of Business Administration.

Brian O’Sullivan, President of The O’Sullivan Group
Brian O’Sullivan formed The O’Sullivan Group, Inc. in February 1999 to serve health care providers with managed care and provider business development services. Over the years, The O’Sullivan Group has also been sought out by Medicare Advantage and Managed Medicaid plans to assist with network development needs. His vision for The O’Sullivan Group, Inc. was to bring real world know-how by offering the same level of service and expertise for both large and small companies that are enjoyed by major Fortune 1000 organizations.

In this episode, Jon Love and his co-hosts, Pamela McIntrye, Brandan Carpenter, and Brian O'Sullivan, engage with Eric Hill, co-founder of AvevoRx, discussing his journey from founding BioRx to launching AvevoRx. Eric shares insights into the challenges and triumphs of building a successful infusion therapy company, the importance of personal connections in patient care, and the evolving landscape of oncology and specialty infusion. The conversation also touches on the role of technology in healthcare and the operational challenges faced in managing a growing business in a competitive market. In this conversation, Eric Hill discusses the critical evaluation of drug therapies, emphasizing the importance of clinical efficacy and financial viability. He shares insights on navigating the payer landscape, the significance of contractual agreements, and strategies for scaling businesses in the infusion market. Additionally, Eric reflects on his personal adventures in mountain climbing, highlighting the intersection of his professional life and personal passions.

Welcome to “Beyond the Drip,” where we dive into the fascinating world of Infusion Pharmacy, from Home Infusion to Ambulatory Infusion Centers. Expect topical conversations on the latest happenings in Infusion from industry leaders who will bring you the latest news, trends and innovations in the infusion industry, as well as expert insights and stories to keep you informed and inspired.

In a pivotal episode of Beyond the Drip this Thanksgiving week, the hosts unpack the ripple effects of CVS Health's decision to exit the infusion market, a move that impacts nearly half a million patients and reshapes the industry. This conversation shines a light on the opportunities and challenges for small and mid-cap home infusion providers in a rapidly evolving landscape. With a focus on scaling complexities, the critical role of local dynamics and the importance of patient care, the episode explores how smaller, community-focused providers can step into the gaps left by larger players. The speakers also discuss key industry trends, including supply chain issues, the indispensable role of nursing and the need for advocacy to support small providers. As the healthcare landscape shifts, this episode offers valuable insights for infusion and pharmacy providers looking to navigate change and thrive in a service-oriented industry. Key takeaways include:

• Success in the infusion market relies on understanding and leveraging local payer dynamics, regulations, and community engagement.

• Scaling is often challenging in the infusion market due to local variations, requiring tailored approaches rather than one-size-fits-all solutions.

• Community-focused providers can capitalize on the gaps left by larger players, using local knowledge and relationships to grow and expand.

• Smaller providers face significant challenges securing necessary goods, highlighting the need for strategic planning.

• Providers must align high-quality patient care with financial sustainability to succeed.

• The infusion business thrives on personalized, high-touch service that prioritizes patient outcomes.

To conclude, the discussion shifts to the future of home infusion care, addressing how local dynamics and personalized service can help smaller providers gain an edge. By focusing on their unique strengths, these organizations can adapt to industry changes and meet evolving patient needs.

Beyond the Drip Co-hosts:

Jon Love, VP of Pharmaceutical Services at Prochant
Jon Love joined Prochant in 2020 and was previously director of sales for WellSky’s home care division and COO for Rock Pond Solutions, a software provider for home infusion, HME and specialty pharmacies.

Pamela McIntyre, founder and owner of Expert Infusion Nurse Consulting
With 40 years of experience in infusion nursing, Pam founded Expert Infusion Nurse Consulting to advance excellence in infusion and mentor other infusion professionals. Her certifications include CRNI, IgCN, OCN and VA-BC, and she has an immersive background in home infusion and ambulatory infusion in the fields of acute and chronic care, including oncology nursing.

Brandon Carpenter, President of MedEdge Solutions
Brandon Carpenter is the owner and founder of MedEdge Solutions. With more than 12 years of experience in pharmacy solutions, process improvement and data analytics, Brandon takes an active role in each of our projects. Prior to forming MedEdge, Brandon was the Director of Products and Professional Services at Rock-Pond Solutions where he worked with over 250 pharmacies nationwide to solve problems ranging from system integrations, financial reporting, 340B, Limited Drug Distribution, software management and more. He is a graduate of the University of Central Arkansas where he received his bachelor’s in business & information systems, as well as his Master of Business Administration.

Brian O’Sullivan, President of The O’Sullivan Group
Brian O’Sullivan formed The O’Sullivan Group, Inc. in February 1999 to serve health care providers with managed care and provider business development services. Over the years, The O’Sullivan Group has also been sought out by Medicare Advantage and Managed Medicaid plans to assist with network development needs. His vision for The O’Sullivan Group, Inc. was to bring real world know-how by offering the same level of service and expertise for both large and small companies that are enjoyed by major Fortune 1000 organizations.

In this special Halloween episode of Beyond the Drip, our co-hosts Jon Love, Pamela McIntyre, Brandon Carpenter and Brian O'Sullivan reminisce on some of the most spine-tingling stories in the infusion market. Together, they explore the industry’s “scariest stories”—from unsettling trends and operational risks to hidden threats few are talking about but are bound to impact the industry. These tales from the infusion world reveal the looming challenges and emerging risks facing providers today and, more importantly, how they’re preparing for what lies ahead. In this episode, the hosts unpack:

• The demand from med spas and wellness clinics that is stretching critical IV supplies, leaving hospitals and infusion providers vulnerable to delays in elective surgeries and patient care.
• The recent RAF score adjustments and plan changes, which are cutting provider revenue, causing insurers to exit certain regions and fueling concerns of a single-payer system that limits senior access to care.
• The fact that some states are dominated by a few insurers, causing costs to rise and dwindling patient choice, sparking calls for more competition in the market.
• The escalation of cyberattacks, with breaches underscoring the value of healthcare data. Ransomware strains providers’ resources, pushing them to strengthen system defenses.
• Staffing shortages, product mix-ups and data issues creating daily pressures for providers, intensifying the need for efficient, risk-aware operations.
• Listen to this episode of Beyond the Drip to hear more about these frightening trends and what our industry experts are doing to navigate these murky waters. Their insights offer a roadmap for infusion and pharmacy providers who want to stay ahead of the curve in an increasingly unpredictable landscape.

Welcome to “Beyond the Drip,” where we dive into the fascinating world of Infusion Pharmacy, from Home Infusion to Ambulatory Infusion Centers. Expect topical conversations on the latest happenings in Infusion from industry leaders who will bring you the latest news, trends and innovations in the infusion industry, as well as expert insights and stories to keep you informed and inspired.

In episode four, we have a special guest, Randy Broyles, Chief Strategy Officer at CSI Pharmacy. An in-depth exploration of the career and insights of Randy Broyles in the Infusion industry. A history of navigating growth, challenges and M&A activity and what we can learn form it for the future.

Welcome to “Beyond the Drip,” where we dive into the fascinating world of Infusion Pharmacy, from Home Infusion to Ambulatory Infusion Centers. Expect topical conversations on the latest happenings in Infusion from industry leaders who will bring you the latest news, trends and innovations in the infusion industry, as well as expert insights and stories to keep you informed and inspired.

In episode three, our panel explores a pressing issue in both the tech and healthcare sectors: monopolies. The episode begins with a conversation about the Department of Justice’s (DOJ) landmark decision to bring an antitrust lawsuit against Google, highlighting its dominance in the market. The discussion soon draws a parallel between Google’s market dominance and the growing monopolies within the healthcare industry, particularly among payers.

In this episode of Beyond the Drip, the hosts discuss the Wild West of infusion therapy. They explore the reasons behind the growth of infusion therapy, including the consumer-centric approach and the demand for quality healthcare. They also discuss the challenges and risks involved in entering the infusion therapy market, such as the lack of common language and the need for expertise. The hosts highlight the importance of understanding the payer landscape and the operational hurdles of staffing, logistics, and training. They also touch on the influx of private equity and independent pharmacies into the market. The conversation explores the challenges and opportunities in the infusion therapy industry, particularly in the emerging field of ambulatory infusion centers (AICs). The speakers discuss the shortage of IV fluids due to non-medical use, the merging of the infusion world, and the need for proper training and patient safety in IV bars. They also touch on the importance of compliance and regulation, cautionary tales of failed AICs, and the future of the industry, including consolidation and the potential for new entrants.

Keywords
infusion therapy, Wild West, growth, consumer-centric, challenges, risks, payer landscape, operational hurdles, staffing, logistics, training, private equity, independent pharmacies, infusion therapy, ambulatory infusion centers, IV fluids, IV bars, training, patient safety, compliance, regulation, cautionary tales, consolidation, new entrants
Takeaways

• Infusion therapy is experiencing significant growth due to its consumer-centric approach and the demand for quality healthcare.
• Entering the infusion therapy market comes with challenges and risks, including the lack of a common language and the need for expertise.
• Understanding the payer landscape is crucial for success in the infusion therapy market.
• Operational hurdles such as staffing, logistics, and training are important considerations for infusion therapy centers.
• The market is seeing an influx of private equity and independent pharmacies, which adds to the competition and complexity of the industry. There is a shortage of IV fluids due to non-medical use, which is affecting the availability of products for medically ill patients.
• The infusion world is merging, with more IV bars potentially transitioning to treat medically ill patients.
• Proper training and understanding of patient care in the infusion therapy industry is crucial, as the process of placing an IV and administering medications is different for medically ill patients.
• There have been cases of unlicensed personnel treating patients in IV clinics and med spas, leading to serious complications and even deaths.
• The industry needs to focus on patient safety, education, and compliance to prevent harm and maintain quality outcomes.
• Payers should prioritize standards that address quality outcomes and staff training in AICs, rather than solely accrediting the pharmacy function.
• Opening an AIC requires careful consideration of referral plans, payer strategies, and contracts to ensure financial viability and success.
• Consolidation in the infusion therapy industry, similar to what happened in home infusion, may occur in the future.
• The future of the industry may involve healthcare organizations offering a range of infusion services, including home infusion, specialty infusion, AICs, and AISs.
• The success of AICs lies in high service, high touch, patient-centric care, and convenience.

Titles

• Understanding the Payer Landscape in Infusion Therapy
• Navigating the Uncharted Territory of Infusion Therapy Cautionary Tales and Lessons Learned in the AIC Space
• The Merging World of Infusion Therapy and the Rise of AICs

Sound Bites

• "I saw enough."
• "Beyond the Drip is a comprehensive podcast around the infusion providers, infusion therapies and everything."
• "This episode is called the Wild West of Infusion."
• "There is a shortage on IV fluids. There's a nationwide problem getting products for people who are sick because of the non-medical use."
• "I'm worried about consumers who have that low expectation of quality that any nurse can stick a needle in their arm and give them B12 or whatever it is."
• "Did you know as long as the medical director is within their confines, a physician can supervise anyone to administer IVs?"

Chapters00:00The Wild West of Infusion
06:26Uncharted Territory
09:19High Potential Rewards
10:47Significant Risks
15:59The Importance of Experts and a Common Language
17:17Understanding the Payer Landscape
17:43Considering the Competitive Landscape
18:13The Wild West of Infusion Therapy
23:09Training and Compliance: Ensuring Patient Safety
28:12Patient Safety and the Potential Risks
33:20Consolidation: The Future of the Industry
36:53Success Stories and Cautionary Tales
42:18The Future of Infusion Therapy: Risks and Opportunities