Cindy Williams has critical advice for anyone wanting to start a career in 340B and pharmacy. Cindy is the vice president and chief pharmacy officer at Riverside Health System in Virginia. In this episode, she walks us through her 340B professional journey over the last three decades, from her initial dreams of having a career in health care to a leadership position that also involves managing a 340B program. She gives advice on building key relationships and driving impactful change in the industry. Before the interview, we provide updates on a newly proposed federal rule on repayments to 340B hospitals for past Medicare cuts.

Starting a Career in Health Care 

Cindy shares valuable lessons for aspiring pharmacy professionals gleaned from decades of experience from her early interest in pharmacy during high school to her current role at Riverside. She advises how such professionals can invest in training and professional development to gain competency in 340B. 

Managing a 340B Program

Cindy shares best practices for how to manage a 340B program effectively by maximizing its value while maintaining compliance, and she stresses the importance of establishing key connections that are both internal and external. 

Advocating for 340B and Pharmacy Issues 

Cindy shares how she made time in her career for participation in advocacy, explains why this activity is critical, and gives practical steps for how 340B professionals can start contributing to such efforts. 

Check out all of our episodes on the 340B Insight podcast website. You also can stay updated on all 340B Health news and information by visiting our homepage. If you have any questions you’d like us to cover in this podcast, email us at [email protected].

Resources

1. Hospital Outpatient Prospective Payment System: Remedy for the 340B-Acquired Drug Payment Policy for Calendar Years 2018-2022 Proposed Rule
2. Statement on CMS Proposed Remedy for Unlawful 340B Medicare Payment Cuts