Former Lilly USA president to keynote National Association of Specialty Pharmacy conference

WASHINGTON — Pharmaceutical executive, healthcare industry leader and former president of Lilly USA, Alex Azar, will kick off the fifth annual National Association of Specialty Pharmacy conference with a keynote speech on Sept. 19 in Washington, D.C.



"I'm honored to keynote NASP's annual conference, and hope to inspire ongoing innovation and top-notch patient support from specialty pharmacy's industry leaders," stated Azar, the chairman of Seraphim Strategies, who served as president of Lilly from 2012 – 2017. "Specialty pharmacies and pharmacists are the best when it comes to providing the groundbreaking drug therapies, resources and white-glove services that sick Americans need and deserve to live their best lives."



Azar joined Lilly USA, the largest affiliate of global biopharmaceutical leader Eli Lilly and Company, in 2007. Previously, he served as Deputy Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. His keynote will provide members with an update on all aspects of specialty pharmacy, including the evolution of the market, impact of specialty pharmacy on patients and national legislative and regulatory policy.



"Millions of Americans suffer from some of the most devastating and complex diseases, depending on specialty pharmacists to deliver knowledgeable, skilled and caring services to help them manage their sickness," said Rebecca Shanahan, NASP president. "This year's conference features an all-star lineup, including healthcare veteran Alex Azar, to foster meaningful discussion and ideas around developments in the specialty pharmacy ecosystem."



NASP is bringing back "by popular demand" the "Women in Specialty Pharmacy" networking lunch on Sept. 19, which was founded by Suzette Di Mascio, president and CEO of the CSI Specialty Group. Women are invited for networking and dynamic conversation on experiences and best practices for navigating the workplace; promoting the education and certification of female pharmacists; and elevating female leaders in specialty pharmacy.



The three-day conference will take place from Sept. 18 through Sept. 20 at the Marriot Wardman Park in Washington, D.C.