In this special policy-focused episode of The ASHHRA Podcast, co-hosts Bo Brabo and Luke Carignan welcome back three powerhouse experts to help us navigate the urgent challenges facing hospital HR leaders today:

🔹 Peggy Tighe, healthcare policy advisor and Principal at Powers Law
🔹 Sarah Hearn, SVP of Strategic Partnerships at RxBenefits
🔹 Rhiannon Klein, 340B strategist and advocate for hospital sustainability

From Capitol Hill to your health system’s bottom line, this episode unpacks the Medicaid policy battles, looming 340B cuts, and why healthcare HR leaders need to be paying close attention.

🔍 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

🏛️ What’s Happening on the Hill
Peggy Tighe gives us a front-row seat to the debate over Congress’ proposed “One Big Beautiful Bill”, a sweeping Medicaid overhaul that could dramatically increase eligibility verification, impose new work requirements, and put a major strain on hospitals, particularly those serving vulnerable populations.

💊 Why 340B is Under Threat
Our panel breaks down how 340B drug pricing programs are directly tied to Medicaid policy and what that means for hospitals, rural providers, and physician groups. With drug costs now making up 9–10% of hospital expenses, protecting 340B is mission critical.

👩‍⚕️ Why HR Must Get Involved
This is no longer just a pharmacy or finance issue. HR leaders are being called to the table as operational partners; ones who understand policy, cost structures, and how to protect resources that directly impact workforce wellbeing.

💡 Key Takeaways for HR Leaders:

• Learn the language: If you're not familiar with 340B, it's time to get educated.
• Collaborate across departments: Pharmacy and HR must work together to optimize savings and care delivery.
• Advocate with confidence: Engage your state and federal policymakers to preserve critical funding streams.

✨ Bright Spots & Strategic Moves:

• In-house pharmacy models are gaining traction.
• Community partnerships, from correctional facilities to local businesses, are opening new access points.
• Regional advocacy groups like CV340B offer practical education and peer networking.

📢 Quote to Remember:
"HR leaders influence 65% of a hospital’s costs. Your voice at the policy table isn’t just welcome... it’s necessary."

🎧 Listen Now to gain the insights, action steps, and real-world strategies you need to protect your workforce, your hospital, and your community.

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