Beyond the Drip Podcast

Beyond the Drip: NHIA CEO Connie Sullivan on Policy, Drug Pricing, and the Future of Home 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.         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

Beyond the Drip: Site of Care, Payer Pressure, and The Future of Infusion Economics with idara Umoh

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 [https://www.google.com/search?q=about:srcdoc], 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.

Beyond the Drip: Infusion Strategy and the Road Ahead with Vic Simianu

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!  --- 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 [https://www.expertinfusionnurse.com/] 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 [https://www.mededgesolutions.com/]. 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. [https://osullivangroup.org/] 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.

Beyond the Drip Podcast: Industry Trailblazer Marc Stranz Reflects on 50 Years of Infusion Pharmacy

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: Inside IgNS National Conference, the Super Bowl of Ig Therapy

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.