FDA initiative aims to expand drug repurposing
The FDA has launched a new initiative to formalize drug repurposing, creating a clearer pathway for approving new uses for existing medications, particularly when commercial incentives are limited. Although physicians have long prescribed drugs off-label, the initiative encourages broader use of real-world evidence, postmarket data and published literature to support new indications. The effort reflects the agency’s evolving regulatory approach and could help expand treatment options for patients with unmet medical needs. (JD Supra)
Primary care guide highlights value of integrated clinical pharmacy services
A new Primary Care Investment Guide from the Harvard Medical School Center for Primary Care outlines evidence-based strategies for strengthening advanced primary care while improving outcomes and lowering costs. Developed with support from the California Health Care Foundation and the Commonwealth Fund, the guide identifies integrated clinical pharmacy services as a key investment alongside behavioral health, care management and population health. Drawing on research, case studies and real-world examples, it offers practical recommendations for policymakers, employers, health plans and provider organizations pursuing primary care transformation. (Primary Care Investment Guide)
Practice Transformation
Health systems expand pharmacy services as retail closures accelerate
As major retail pharmacy chains continue closing stores, more health systems are expanding community pharmacy services to preserve access to medications, particularly in underserved and rural communities. Strategies include opening or acquiring retail pharmacies, expanding home delivery and investing in centralized fulfillment. Health system leaders cite improved medication adherence, smoother transitions of care and greater access to pharmacy services as key priorities, although financial sustainability remains an ongoing challenge. (Becker’s Hospital Review)
Genomics moves closer to routine clinical care
Advances in pharmacogenomics and polygenic risk scores are moving genomics closer to routine patient care, offering opportunities to personalize prescribing, predict disease risk and reduce trial-and-error treatment. Experts say declining sequencing costs and growing evidence of clinical utility are accelerating adoption, but significant barriers remain. Integrating genomic data into clinical workflows, ensuring equitable access, educating clinicians and building trust in genetic testing will be essential before genomics becomes a standard component of everyday healthcare. (Medscape)
Evidence & Innovation
Pharmacogenomics-guided therapy improves blood pressure control
Using pharmacogenomic testing to guide antihypertensive therapy may help patients achieve better blood pressure control than standard treatment, according to new research. Patients whose medications were selected based on genetic factors were more likely to reach target blood pressure while using fewer medications, without an increase in adverse events. The findings add to growing evidence that pharmacogenomics can support more personalized prescribing, although broader implementation will require expanded testing, clinician education and integration into routine clinical practice. (The Cardiology Advisor)
Policy Solutions
AI prescription refill program sparks debate over clinical oversight
Utah’s first-in-the-nation AI prescription refill program is fueling debate over the appropriate role of artificial intelligence in clinical care. The Doctronic chatbot allows eligible patients to renew certain existing prescriptions without an office visit while referring more complex cases to physicians. Supporters say the approach could improve access and reduce administrative burden, but critics question patient safety, regulatory oversight and whether AI should independently perform tasks traditionally reserved for licensed clinicians. (AP)
