NACDS: Navigating Change in the Pharmacy Landscape
March 14, 2025, 6:01 am
The National Association of Chain Drug Stores (NACDS) is at a crossroads. With significant leadership changes and pressing legislative needs, the organization is poised to redefine its role in the pharmacy sector. This article explores the recent developments within NACDS, the implications of pharmacy benefit manager (PBM) reform, and the future of community pharmacies across America.
In March 2025, NACDS announced the promotion of Marilyn Hunter to vice president of meetings and conferences. This move comes as part of a broader reshuffle within the organization, coinciding with the upcoming retirement of Jim Whitman, the senior vice president of member programs and services. Hunter’s ascent is a testament to her dedication and experience, having joined NACDS in 1997. She has spent nearly three decades honing her skills in various roles, ultimately leading the meetings and conferences team.
Hunter’s journey reflects the evolution of NACDS itself. The organization has long been a cornerstone of the pharmacy industry, representing over 40,000 pharmacies across the nation. With nearly 3 million employees, including 155,000 pharmacists, NACDS plays a critical role in shaping healthcare delivery. Hunter’s promotion signals a commitment to enhancing member experiences through well-organized events that foster collaboration and innovation.
However, the pharmacy landscape is changing rapidly. The recent announcement from NACDS highlights a grim reality: nearly four pharmacies are closing every day. This alarming trend is largely attributed to the influence of pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs). These middlemen have been accused of driving up prescription drug prices and squeezing the margins of community pharmacies. The NACDS has been vocal about the urgent need for PBM reform, emphasizing that inaction is costing Americans dearly.
The statistics are staggering. Since the end of the last Congress, Americans have missed out on hundreds of millions of dollars in potential savings due to the unchecked power of PBMs. The NACDS argues that these reforms are not just necessary; they are overdue. As Congress grapples with legislative complexities, the call for action grows louder. The organization has a package of reforms ready to go, but the clock is ticking.
The implications of PBM reform extend beyond financial savings. They touch the very fabric of community health. Pharmacies are often the first point of contact for patients. They provide essential services, from filling prescriptions to offering health screenings. When pharmacies close, communities lose access to these vital resources. The NACDS has made it clear: the health of Americans is at stake.
As Marilyn Hunter steps into her new role, she will face the challenge of navigating these turbulent waters. Her experience in organizing events will be crucial as NACDS seeks to rally support for PBM reform. The organization must leverage its influence to advocate for change. This is not just about meetings and conferences; it’s about creating a movement that prioritizes patient care and community health.
The recent leadership changes at NACDS also reflect a broader trend within the organization. With Terry Arth and Steve Perlowski stepping into senior vice president roles, NACDS is positioning itself to tackle the challenges ahead. Arth will oversee member services and conferences, while Perlowski will focus on industry affairs and member relations. Together, they form a new leadership team that is tasked with revitalizing the organization’s mission.
The urgency of PBM reform cannot be overstated. As Congress deliberates, the NACDS is calling for swift action. The organization’s message is clear: delay is not an option. The health of millions of Americans hangs in the balance. By advocating for reform, NACDS aims to protect community pharmacies and ensure that patients receive the care they deserve.
In the coming months, NACDS will need to harness its collective strength. The organization must engage its members, stakeholders, and the public to build momentum for change. This is a pivotal moment for the pharmacy industry. The decisions made today will shape the future of healthcare delivery in America.
Marilyn Hunter’s promotion is more than just a career milestone; it symbolizes a renewed commitment to excellence within NACDS. As she leads the meetings and conferences team, her focus will be on creating impactful experiences that resonate with members. These gatherings will serve as platforms for discussion, collaboration, and advocacy.
The challenges facing community pharmacies are significant, but they are not insurmountable. With strong leadership and a clear vision, NACDS can navigate this complex landscape. The organization has the potential to be a powerful advocate for reform, ensuring that pharmacies remain a vital part of the healthcare ecosystem.
In conclusion, NACDS stands at a critical juncture. The promotion of Marilyn Hunter and the push for PBM reform are intertwined threads in a larger narrative. As the organization embraces change, it must remain steadfast in its mission to support community pharmacies and improve patient health. The road ahead may be fraught with challenges, but with determination and unity, NACDS can emerge stronger than ever. The future of pharmacy depends on it.
In March 2025, NACDS announced the promotion of Marilyn Hunter to vice president of meetings and conferences. This move comes as part of a broader reshuffle within the organization, coinciding with the upcoming retirement of Jim Whitman, the senior vice president of member programs and services. Hunter’s ascent is a testament to her dedication and experience, having joined NACDS in 1997. She has spent nearly three decades honing her skills in various roles, ultimately leading the meetings and conferences team.
Hunter’s journey reflects the evolution of NACDS itself. The organization has long been a cornerstone of the pharmacy industry, representing over 40,000 pharmacies across the nation. With nearly 3 million employees, including 155,000 pharmacists, NACDS plays a critical role in shaping healthcare delivery. Hunter’s promotion signals a commitment to enhancing member experiences through well-organized events that foster collaboration and innovation.
However, the pharmacy landscape is changing rapidly. The recent announcement from NACDS highlights a grim reality: nearly four pharmacies are closing every day. This alarming trend is largely attributed to the influence of pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs). These middlemen have been accused of driving up prescription drug prices and squeezing the margins of community pharmacies. The NACDS has been vocal about the urgent need for PBM reform, emphasizing that inaction is costing Americans dearly.
The statistics are staggering. Since the end of the last Congress, Americans have missed out on hundreds of millions of dollars in potential savings due to the unchecked power of PBMs. The NACDS argues that these reforms are not just necessary; they are overdue. As Congress grapples with legislative complexities, the call for action grows louder. The organization has a package of reforms ready to go, but the clock is ticking.
The implications of PBM reform extend beyond financial savings. They touch the very fabric of community health. Pharmacies are often the first point of contact for patients. They provide essential services, from filling prescriptions to offering health screenings. When pharmacies close, communities lose access to these vital resources. The NACDS has made it clear: the health of Americans is at stake.
As Marilyn Hunter steps into her new role, she will face the challenge of navigating these turbulent waters. Her experience in organizing events will be crucial as NACDS seeks to rally support for PBM reform. The organization must leverage its influence to advocate for change. This is not just about meetings and conferences; it’s about creating a movement that prioritizes patient care and community health.
The recent leadership changes at NACDS also reflect a broader trend within the organization. With Terry Arth and Steve Perlowski stepping into senior vice president roles, NACDS is positioning itself to tackle the challenges ahead. Arth will oversee member services and conferences, while Perlowski will focus on industry affairs and member relations. Together, they form a new leadership team that is tasked with revitalizing the organization’s mission.
The urgency of PBM reform cannot be overstated. As Congress deliberates, the NACDS is calling for swift action. The organization’s message is clear: delay is not an option. The health of millions of Americans hangs in the balance. By advocating for reform, NACDS aims to protect community pharmacies and ensure that patients receive the care they deserve.
In the coming months, NACDS will need to harness its collective strength. The organization must engage its members, stakeholders, and the public to build momentum for change. This is a pivotal moment for the pharmacy industry. The decisions made today will shape the future of healthcare delivery in America.
Marilyn Hunter’s promotion is more than just a career milestone; it symbolizes a renewed commitment to excellence within NACDS. As she leads the meetings and conferences team, her focus will be on creating impactful experiences that resonate with members. These gatherings will serve as platforms for discussion, collaboration, and advocacy.
The challenges facing community pharmacies are significant, but they are not insurmountable. With strong leadership and a clear vision, NACDS can navigate this complex landscape. The organization has the potential to be a powerful advocate for reform, ensuring that pharmacies remain a vital part of the healthcare ecosystem.
In conclusion, NACDS stands at a critical juncture. The promotion of Marilyn Hunter and the push for PBM reform are intertwined threads in a larger narrative. As the organization embraces change, it must remain steadfast in its mission to support community pharmacies and improve patient health. The road ahead may be fraught with challenges, but with determination and unity, NACDS can emerge stronger than ever. The future of pharmacy depends on it.