NCPDP's 2025 Annual Conference Emphasizes Healthcare Collaboration and Innovation

NCPDP's 2025 Annual Technology & Business Conference

On May 9, 2025, the National Council for Prescription Drug Programs (NCPDP) gathered industry experts and leaders at its Annual Technology & Business Conference in Scottsdale, Arizona. This year's theme, 'CONNECTED CARE,' highlights the critical need for innovation and collaboration in healthcare to enhance patient outcomes.

Key Highlights of the Conference

The event featured impactful keynote speeches, educational sessions, and the presentation of prestigious awards, further underscoring NCPDP's leadership role in advancing healthcare interoperability. Lee Ann Stember, the President and CEO of NCPDP, opened the conference with a statement that emphasized the importance of connected care for improving patient outcomes.

Dr. Vin Gupta, former Chief Medical Officer of Amazon Pharmacy, delivered a powerful keynote titled "The Future of Healthcare: How Your Organization Will Be Impacted." He shared innovative strategies for collaboration among healthcare providers, pharmacists, and patients, setting an inspiring tone that resonated throughout the conference.

Central to Dr. Gupta's message was the significance of the Patient Experience Identifier (PEI), previously known as the Universal Patient Identifier. This identifier is crucial for improving patient matching and ensuring accurate identification across different systems, a necessary step toward safer, more connected healthcare.

Notable Speakers and Panels

Among the other significant speakers was Scott Biggs, who presented the IQVIA™ Market Trends Report. This report provided an insightful overview of industry trends and key predictions for the U.S. healthcare market, helping attendees to understand the upcoming changes in the industry.

In addition, Allison Massari delivered an inspiring talk titled "You Are the Medicine," focusing on resilience and leadership in the face of change. Her session emphasized the human aspect of healthcare and how compassion can be a powerful tool for change.

A prominent discussion panel on Artificial Intelligence showcased the potential of AI in healthcare. Panelists discussed applications, opportunities for enhancing care delivery and clinical decision-making, and the imperative for responsible innovation and data governance in the use of AI technologies.

Recognition and New Appointments

The conference also honored Denise McNerney of iBossWell with the prestigious 2025 NCPDP Champion Award in recognition of her significant contributions and dedication to optimizing the organization's mission. She has played a critical role over the past decade in strategic advisory and planning, leading the way for improved healthcare standards and collaborations.

In leadership news, Mindy Smith was appointed as the Chairperson of the NCPDP Board of Trustees, alongside Chris Mendez, who took on the role of Vice Chair. New appointments to the board include Lawrence King and re-elections for several board members who have demonstrated commitment and expertise in their fields.

Future Events

Looking ahead, NCPDP's next Annual Technology & Business Conference is scheduled for May 4-6, 2026, at the Westin Kierland Resort & Spa in Scottsdale, Arizona. The anticipation for future conferences suggests a continued commitment to innovation and collaboration in the healthcare field.

About NCPDP

NCPDP, established in 1977, is a non-profit organization dedicated to developing standards and solutions that enhance the exchange of medication information. Its work has impacted several areas in healthcare to improve patient safety and interoperability, vital for modern healthcare delivery. Supported by a comprehensive range of products and data solutions, NCPDP remains at the forefront of healthcare transformation through enhanced data sharing and standardization.

To learn more about the NCPDP's initiatives and future projects, visit www.ncpdp.org.