Beyond the Drip: The Talent Crisis in Infusion Pharmacy

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. 

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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.