Independent Pharmacy Innovation Spotlighted at McKesson ideaShare 2025

McKesson ideaShare 2025 brought thousands of independent pharmacists, pharmacy owners, technicians, and industry leaders together in Nashville, Tennessee, shining a spotlight on innovation and advocacy in community pharmacy. The annual conference—one of the largest gatherings of independent pharmacy professionals—offered attendees a packed agenda of continuing education, expert-led PharmaTalks, networking opportunities, and the chance to explore the latest pharmacy services and technologies.

The highlight of this year’s event was the announcement of Dave’s Pharmacy in Alliance, Nebraska, as the winner of the Pharmacy of the Year Award, recognizing the pharmacy’s outstanding contributions to patient care and community health.

Owned and operated by Dave Randolph, BSPharm, Dave’s Pharmacy has become a model for innovation in independent pharmacy practice. The rural Nebraska pharmacy has expanded well beyond traditional dispensing, offering point-of-care testing and remote patient monitoring services to meet patients where they are and improve health outcomes. Virtual medication consultations and a strong social media presence have allowed the pharmacy to extend its care footprint far beyond the walls of the store, connecting with patients in neighboring communities and beyond.

In addition to leading his pharmacy, Randolph serves as president-elect of the Nebraska Pharmacist Association and is an active member of the organization’s legislative committee. His work in pharmacy advocacy has helped push forward conversations about expanding pharmacists’ scope of practice and finding new ways to support independent pharmacies in today’s rapidly evolving health care environment.

A Gathering for Learning and Innovation

Throughout the 4-day conference, attendees participated in a wide variety of educational sessions designed to help pharmacies expand services, improve operations, and build stronger relationships with their communities. Topics included innovative clinical services, vaccine access, and the interaction of pharmacology and nutrition.

PharmaTalk sessions—dynamic conversations between pharmacy experts—featured thought leaders and pharmacy innovators sharing insights on the evolving health care landscape. Topics ranged from navigating artificial intelligence to increasing foot traffic and marketing strategies.

Pharmacy Times also interviewed key experts during the meeting. In one conversation, Nancy Lyons, BSPharm, MBA, CDCES, vice president and chief pharmacy officer of Health Mart by McKesson, discussed the next frontiers in pharmacy care—from chronic disease management and pharmacogenomics to mental health support and HIV prevention. She also discussed the need for pharmacies to diversify clinical services, emphasizing the pharmacy’s vital role in the health care ecosystem.

In another interview, Keri Bates, PharmD, owner of Rocky Ridge Drug Company in Birmingham, Alabama, shared how she’s developed a structured career advancement model for pharmacy technicians that promotes efficiency, improves patient care, and boosts team morale. Technicians are increasingly crucial team members with growing clinical responsibilities, and pharmacy owners and managers can rethink compensation and career growth to retain top talent and operate more sustainably.

Finally, in yet another expert interview, health care leaders Niki Shah, MHSA, MBA, CCHW, and Raj Chhadua, PharmD, discussed how micro-access pharmacies are working to close gaps in health care access. Supported by McKesson, the micro-access pharmacy project has the potential to improve medication adherence, address social determinants of health, and create a sustainable care solution for underserved communities.

Looking Ahead

As independent pharmacy continues to navigate rapid changes in health care delivery, McKesson ideaShare 2025 underscored the importance of innovation, leadership, and patient-centered care. The recognition of Dave’s Pharmacy as Pharmacy of the Year sent a clear message: pharmacies that embrace clinical services, leverage technology, and advocate for the profession are paving the way for the future.