RxRewired – Ep 03: Healthcare Is About to Get Personal – and Pharmacy Isn’t Ready | APhA CEO Michael Hogue
RxRewired Podcast
Publish Date: September 16, 2026
How new expectations are reshaping pharmacy practice today.
With Michael D. Hogue, Chief Executive Officer and Executive Vice President of the American Pharmacists Association (APhA).
The future of pharmacy is being redefined, and it's not what you think.
In this enlightening episode of RxRewired, Michael, a seasoned leader in pharmacy, challenges the status quo by articulating how younger generations are reshaping healthcare expectations.
He reveals why the evolution from a product-centric approach to a relationship-driven model is crucial for pharmacists to thrive in a consumer-driven society.
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The Future of Pharmacy: Embracing Change and Personalization
The landscape of pharmacy is evolving rapidly, driven by the expectations of younger generations entering the workforce. Michael highlights a significant shift: today's consumers demand a healthcare experience tailored to their needs, contrasting sharply with the past where conformity to existing systems was the norm
A Consumer-Driven Revolution
Michael points out that millennials and Gen Z are reshaping healthcare's very foundation. They refuse to accept a one-size-fits-all system, insisting instead that healthcare must be flexible and responsive to individual needs. In this consumer-driven society, the power has shifted toward the patient, and professionals must adapt accordingly.
"The consumer defines what healthcare is going to look like. And that is causing quite an upheaval right now."
This upheaval signals a call to action for pharmacists. As the healthcare landscape transforms, pharmacists must embrace these changes to meet the evolving expectations of their patients.
The Importance of Personalization
Personalization in healthcare is no longer just a luxury; it is a necessity. As Jeremy shares, while he appreciates personalized interactions as a consumer, not every healthcare interaction holds equal value. The distinction between a quick pick-up and a complex patient case highlights the need for pharmacists to prioritize meaningful engagements.
Michael emphasizes the significance of human connection in healthcare, stating,
"The sweetest sound to a person's own ears is their name... personalization is extremely important in healthcare."
This underscores the idea that while technology can aid in patient care, the essence of healthcare lies in the relationships built between pharmacists and patients.
Preparing for the Future
As pharmacy embraces advancements like AI and new therapeutic options, the focus must shift from merely managing chronic diseases to offering comprehensive care. The conversation pivots to how pharmacists can prepare for this future, especially as new treatments emerge that promise cures rather than mere management of conditions.
Michael argues for a shift in regulatory frameworks, advocating for a standard of care model that allows pharmacists to utilize their skills fully and responsively to patient needs.
"We can no longer be passive. We’ve got to actively engage."
This call to action challenges pharmacists to continuously enhance their knowledge and skills, ensuring they remain at the forefront of patient care.
A Bright Future Ahead
Despite the challenges faced, Michael expresses optimism for the future of pharmacy. He envisions a landscape where pharmacists take on specialized roles, adapting to the unique needs of diverse patient populations.
"I can’t imagine a more bright future than we have in front of us."
As Michael concludes, the future of pharmacy is not a distant reality; it's unfolding now. The pharmacists and organizations that will thrive are those who not only adapt but lead the charge in transforming healthcare into a more personalized and effective experience.
Reflecting on the conversation, it’s clear: the future of pharmacy is about more than dispensing medications; it’s about forging meaningful connections, embracing innovation, and actively participating in the patient care journey. Join us next time as we further explore the evolving role of pharmacy in healthcare.
A big thank you to those who contributed to this episode of RxRewired!
Guest: Dr. Michael Hogue, APhA CEO and EVP
Hosts: Madeline Camejo & Jeremy Espeut
Produced by: Scott Kjelson
Edited by: Scott Kjelson & Jeremy Espeut
Recorded at: Epic Podcast Studios
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