Harmacy Pharmacy Documentary | Anaïs Mennuti & Kristin Speer, PharmDs

The Business of Pharmacy Podcast™

In this enlightening episode, we dive into the world of pharmacy beyond the counters and shelves with the creators of the compelling documentary "Harmacy." Dr. Anaïs (Webster) Mennuti and Dr. Kristin Speer join host Mike Koelzer to shed light on their journey, challenges, and the transformative shift in their project's direction. Sponsor: https://www.parcelhealth.co/ https://www.harmacyfilm.com Guests: Dr. Anaïs (Webster) Mennuti, a dedicated pharmacist and the co-director/producer of "Harmacy," shares her insights from the front lines in Oregon's hospital systems. Dr. Kristin Speer, also a pharmacist, lends her expertise as a co-producer and a pivotal figure in the Psychedelic Pharmacist Association, discussing the broader implications of pharmacy practices. Discussion Highlights: Title Evolution: The documentary, initially titled "Would You Like Shots With That?," has undergone a significant rebranding to "Harmacy," a change inspired by Hollywood consultants' advice for broader appeal and clarity. Core Themes: The project started as a focus on labor rights within retail chain pharmacies but expanded to encompass the deeper, systemic issues plaguing the pharmacy world, hinting at a broader "Harmacy" rather than a caring environment. Challenges Faced: The journey to bring this documentary to life is not without its obstacles, from funding hurdles to gaining cooperation from the industry's higher echelons. Anaïs and Kristin discuss the reluctance of top pharmacy chains and PBMs to engage, highlighting the importance of presenting a balanced view by including various perspectives in their narrative. The Role of Pharmacy: The conversation delves into the identity crisis within the profession, emphasizing the need for pharmacists to become better self-advocates. The documentary aims to spark a conversation on the value pharmacists bring to healthcare and the potential for their role to evolve positively if systemic issues are addressed. Future Steps and Funding: With a detailed business plan and a partnership with consulting producer Scott DuPont, the team is optimistic about reaching their funding goals to continue production. The documentary seeks not only to highlight the challenges but also to explore potential solutions and encourage a collective push towards systemic reform. Call to Action: The episode concludes with an invitation to the pharmacy community and the general public to support the documentary's mission. By shedding light on the untold stories of the pharmacy world, "Harmacy" aims to catalyze change and advocate for a profession that is integral to public health. For More Information: Visit harmacyfilm.com for updates, insights, and ways to support this vital project. Join us next week for another engaging conversation on The Business of Pharmacy Podcast™, where we continue to explore the intersections of health, policy, and the business shaping the future of pharmacy.