The US pharmaceutical and healthcare industries are facing widespread disruption at the hands of tariffs and other challenges. In response, many CPOs are turning to innovation and technology adoption to meet these challenges.
Bluesight’s Hospital Pharmacy Operations Report (HPOR)
Hospital intelligence solutions company Bluesight has released the findings of its 11th annual Hospital Pharmacy Operations Report (HPOR). The report surveyed 258 hospital pharmacy participants in the first quarter of 2025 to gauge opinions on current challenges, priorities, and trends shaping hospital pharmacies nationwide.
Key takeaways from the report include the fact that streamlining pharmacy purchasing to address top procurement challenges continues to increase in priority. An overwhelming majority (95%) of respondents noted it as important or very important compared to 72% last year.
Also, most respondents (76%) expect an increase in 340B regulatory oversight in the next 2-3 years, but need to be more thoroughly prepared for audits. Additionally, drug diversion remains a top issue, with 66% of respondents reporting a diversion event within the past year. The report also identifies smart pumps, IV prep tracking/clean room automation, and automated dispensing cabinets (ADCs) as the top three areas for tech investment in 2025.
As pharmacies increasingly work to support remote locations, standardisation and increased visibility are key to help close the gaps between enhanced visibility and the limited financial resources to implement necessary solutions. Almost half (41%) of respondents reported no visibility into oncology inventory in remote locations, and only 38% reported capital expenditures allocated to improve inventory visibility.
“Hospitals are currently navigating a wide variety of challenges surrounding an unpredictable supply chain and regulatory issues,” said Kevin MacDonald, Bluesight CEO, and co-founder. “What the report highlights is a compelling opportunity for innovation in addressing these issues. Areas like 340B adherence and drug shortage management are not only critical for operational efficiency but present untapped potential for technological advancements. These are two key areas where we are focusing our efforts to drive innovation and deliver solutions to help hospitals reduce costs and achieve long-term stability.”