Employee Engagement and Year-Round Communication in Pharmacy Operations

In the rapidly evolving healthcare landscape of 2024, employee engagement and continuous communication have become non-negotiable components for success in pharmacy operations. For companies managing pharmacy benefits, these efforts directly impact patient outcomes, operational efficiency, and cost control. As specialty drugs continue to rise in prevalence and cost, keeping pharmacy teams informed and engaged is critical to delivering high-quality care and controlling expenses.

As of 2024, 55% of total U.S. prescription drug spending is attributed to specialty medications, despite these drugs being used by only 1-2% of the population. The high cost and complexity of these treatments necessitate continuous clinical education for pharmacy professionals. Specialty drugs often cost upwards of $3,500 per month, and staying abreast of the latest therapies, treatment protocols, and drug management techniques is critical for both patient safety and cost control.

By investing in ongoing learning, companies empower their pharmacy teams to actively manage these therapies. Medication therapy management (MTM) programs have proven to significantly improve medication adherence, reduce complications, and lower overall healthcare costs. These programs engage pharmacists in regular patient care discussions, turning them into essential players in both care delivery and cost containment.

Engaging Teams in Medication Management for Cost Control

The rising cost of specialty drugs—projected to grow by 52% by the end of 2024—demands a proactive approach to cost control. Pharmacy teams must be deeply involved in the implementation of prior authorization (PA) programs and site-of-care management strategies, which shift drug administration from expensive hospital outpatient settings to lower-cost alternatives like physician offices or home care. This not only drives significant savings for employers but also ensures patients receive appropriate and timely care. Pharmacy teams can also play a key role in reducing drug waste through strategies like vial rounding, which adjusts dosages to minimize leftover medication. By engaging pharmacists in these cost-saving efforts, organizations can effectively manage their specialty drug spending without compromising on care quality.

Ensuring Compliance Through Year-Round Communication

Navigating the complex regulatory landscape of specialty pharmacy requires continuous engagement and communication with pharmacy teams. The Joint Commission’s Medication Management standards emphasize the importance of ongoing readiness, which can only be achieved through regular updates, training, and clear communication. By fostering a culture of year-round compliance, organizations not only reduce the stress associated with last-minute preparations for audits but also elevate the quality of care provided to patients. Engaged pharmacy teams, who are well-informed of regulatory changes and compliance protocols, are better equipped to manage patient care effectively while adhering to industry standards.

In today’s complex healthcare environment, the integration of continuous education, active participation in cost management, and ongoing communication creates a pathway for pharmacy success. By investing in these strategies, companies can cultivate a more engaged, knowledgeable workforce capable of delivering improved patient outcomes, achieving regulatory compliance, and controlling escalating costs—all while ensuring that their pharmacy teams feel empowered and aligned with organizational goals.