Independent Insights, a Health Mart Podcast

Ever wondered what it’s really like to invite and host a legislator at your Pharmacy? In this episode of Independent Insights , we sit down with Shannon Tesini, a Certified Pharmacy Technician and passionate pharmacy advocate, to demystify the process of preparing for a legislative visit. Whether you're a technician, pharmacist, or pharmacy owner, Shannon shares what it takes to confidently r...

The FDA remains a powerful driver of change in pharmacy practice through its approvals, policies, and public health actions. This episode highlights timely FDA developments and emerging areas of focus that pharmacists need to be aware of—from regulatory shifts to new communication initiatives. Tune in to stay informed on FDA activity that could influence the way you practice and care for patients....

As more patients live beyond cancer treatment, survivorship care is becoming an essential—but often overlooked—part of the healthcare journey. This episode explores how pharmacists can support survivors through medication management, mental health awareness, lifestyle counseling, and connection to broader care resources. Tune in to learn how you can play a meaningful role in helping patients navig...

Falls are a leading cause of injury and death in older adults, and pharmacists are in a key position to help prevent them. This episode highlights how to identify medication risks, share practical prevention strategies, and connect patients with trusted tools and resources. Tune in to learn how you can make a meaningful impact in reducing falls in your community.  HOST Joshua Davis Kinsey, PharmD...

With shifting policies, payment models, and an unpredictable respiratory virus landscape,  pharmacy teams need more than clinical updates to prepare for the upcoming immunization season. This episode explores key issues shaping immunization practice today — including policy changes, billing and documentation trends, and how teams can proactively adapt and advocate for their role. Tune in for timel...

The Future Is Now: APhA President Randy McDonough on Leading Change in Independent Pharmacy What does the future of independent pharmacy look like—and how do we get there? In this powerful episode of Independent Insights , APhA President and Health Mart pharmacy owner Randy McDonough joins McKesson Health Mart’s Chief Pharmacist Nancy Lyons for a candid conversation about the urgent changes needed...

Low-dose naltrexone (LDN) is generating growing interest as a potential therapy for conditions such as chronic pain and immune-related disorders. This episode offers a foundational overview of what LDN is, how it’s thought to work, where current evidence stands, and how pharmacists may encounter it in practice. Learn what pharmacists need to know to confidently approach patient questions about LDN...

Compounded medications serve a critical role in meeting patient-specific needs, but compliance is essential to ensure safety and quality. This episode covers what pharmacists need to know about documentation, prescription validity, beyond-use dating, and common missteps that can put compliance at risk. Tune in to strengthen your compounding practices and stay aligned with current regulatory expect...

Uncontrolled hypertension continues to drive cardiovascular risk and remains a major gap in chronic disease management. This episode discusses what pharmacists need to know to support treatment adherence, identify therapeutic gaps, and address barriers to blood pressure control. Listen to strengthen your role in helping patients achieve meaningful, sustained outcomes.   HOST Joshua Davis Kinsey, P...

With sexually transmitted infection (STI) rates continuing to rise, over-the-counter testing kits are expanding access to care, and pharmacists are well-positioned to support their safe and effective use. This episode explores key facts about available OTC kits, regulatory updates, counseling responsibilities, and the potential for test-and-treat models in pharmacy practice. Join us to learn how p...

Pharmacists are key partners in helping patients navigate the challenges of managing pain safely and effectively. This episode covers practical strategies for counseling, identifying potential concerns in therapy, and supporting appropriate treatment, plus a quick review of the newly approved non-opioid option. Tune in to strengthen your clinical confidence and improve outcomes in pain care.  HOST...

What if the key to boosting your pharmacy’s revenue—and your community impact—was already within your four walls? In this episode of Independent Insights, host Suzanne Feeney sits down with Alex Anderson, sixth-generation owner of Oswald’s Pharmacy, to explore how he transformed a single lift chair into a thriving front-end and DME (Durable Medical Equipment) business that now spans 5,000+ square...

HIV treatment has evolved significantly, offering streamlined regimens and improved patient outcomes. This episode will discuss the latest antiretroviral therapy (ART) guidelines, highlighting preferred regimens, key pharmacologic considerations, and practical counseling strategies for pharmacists. Tune in to enhance your clinical knowledge and play a pivotal role in optimizing care for individual...

Integrative oncology blends conventional cancer treatments with supportive therapies like nutrition, acupuncture, and mind-body practices to improve patient outcomes and quality of life. This episode outlines what pharmacists need to know about the principles of integrative medicine, how to evaluate evidence-based resources, and counseling tips for guiding patients through safe, effective compleme...

Integrative oncology blends conventional cancer treatments with supportive therapies like nutrition, acupuncture, and mind-body practices to improve patient outcomes and quality of life. This episode outlines what pharmacists need to know about the principles of integrative medicine, how to evaluate evidence-based resources, and counseling tips for guiding patients through safe, effective compleme...

Dyslipidemia remains a major contributor to cardiovascular disease, and pharmacists play a key role in optimizing therapy and improving outcomes. This episode reviews recent updates in guidelines, pharmacologic options, and practical counseling tips for supporting patients with lipid disorders. Tune in to strengthen your clinical impact and support long-term health for the patients you serve.   HO...

Are you tired of inventory headaches draining your time, cash flow, and team morale? In this episode of Independent Insights, we’re cracking the code on an often overlooked yet powerful tool in your pharmacy: inventory management. Join host Suzanne Feeney and special guest Britney Woods, Pharmacist in Charge at a Dallas-based McKesson-owned Health Mart, as they reveal how small, strategic changes...

Fatty liver disease affects a growing number of patients, often progressing silently until advanced stages. This episode highlights what pharmacists need to know about recent terminology changes, risk factors, pharmacotherapy updates, and key counseling strategies to support patients. Tune in to sharpen your clinical knowledge and help identify, manage, and educate patients at risk for this increa...

Asthma management continues to evolve, with updated guidelines emphasizing personalized care, smart inhaler use, and early intervention. This episode reviews key pharmacotherapy updates, stepwise treatment strategies, and practical counseling tips to support adherence and inhaler technique. Tune in to strengthen your role in improving outcomes for patients living with asthma. BONUS: With this epis...

Creatine is often associated with athletic performance, but growing evidence points to its broader benefits for brain health, aging, and overall muscle preservation. This episode breaks down what pharmacists need to know about creatine’s evidence-based uses, safety considerations, and counseling opportunities. Tune in to strengthen your knowledge and help ensure patients receive accurate, evidence...

Long COVID continues to affect millions, leaving patients with persistent symptoms that impact daily life and overall health. Pharmacists are uniquely positioned to recognize these patients, recommend supportive treatments, and provide guidance on symptom management. Tune in to learn how you can help improve the quality of life for those struggling with this complex condition.   HOST Joshua Davis...

Whether you're looking for innovative ideas or practical tips, this episode offers valuable insights for a thriving front end. Gain expert insights from Megan Baccam, Director, Product Management at McKesson, and Russell Gong, Co-founder of Cabinet Health. Listeners will discover how independent pharmacies can leverage private-label products to boost patient care and business growth in this e...

With over-the-counter birth control expanding access to contraception, pharmacists have a growing role in guiding patients through their options, ensuring safe use, and providing essential counseling. This episode explores the pharmacist’s role in OTC birth control recommendations, patient education, and broader hormonal contraception services within community pharmacy practice. Tune in to learn h...

Pharmacists are stepping into a critical role in addiction treatment, expanding access to life-saving medications like buprenorphine through pharmacy-based MOUD clinics. This episode examines how this innovative model is transforming care for patients with opioid use disorder and what pharmacists need to understand before considering an expansion of services in this space. Tune in to learn how pha...

Travel health is more than just vaccines—pharmacists play a crucial role in protecting patients from preventable illnesses with essential immunizations, OTC medications, and prescription therapies. This episode explores the key components of a successful travel clinic, from vaccine recommendations to counseling on travel-related health risks. Tune in to learn how you can expand your impact and hel...