When it comes to driving real progress in the pharmacy and healthcare tech world, the NCPDP Annual Conference is one event you can’t afford to overlook. Held each year in Scottsdale, Arizona, this conference brings together leaders from pharmacy, healthcare technology, government, payers, and other parts of the industry.
It’s more than just a meeting—it’s where smart conversations happen, solutions are shaped, and future standards are formed. If you care about how pharmacy works and how patients get better care, this is where you want to be.
When and Where It’s Happening
- Date: May 5–7, 2025
- Venue: Westin Kierland Resort & Spa, Scottsdale, Arizona
The location isn’t just functional—it’s relaxing. The Westin offers a peaceful desert setting, which makes this busy, forward-focused conference all the more enjoyable.
What Is the NCPDP Annual Conference?
Hosted by the National Council for Prescription Drug Programs (NCPDP), this annual gathering brings together professionals from every corner of the pharmacy industry. It’s known for focusing on practical changes in healthcare—especially around electronic prescribing, data sharing, and improving patient access to medications.
Unlike most healthcare events, this conference gives attendees the chance to actually shape industry standards and participate in open discussions. It’s part learning, part building, and part collaborating.
Who Should Attend
The conference is ideal for:
- Pharmacists and pharmacy managers
- Health IT professionals
- Payers and insurance plan reps
- Pharmacy benefit managers
- Drug manufacturers and service providers
- Government health officials
- Healthcare policy experts
- Startups in health technology
- Students or early-career professionals in pharmacy or healthcare data
If your work touches medication delivery, pharmacy operations, or healthcare systems—even indirectly—you’ll find useful insights here.
What You Can Expect
1. Educational Sessions
From digital prescribing to real-time benefits checks and interoperability, the sessions cover everything that’s pushing pharmacy forward. These are not just theoretical talks—they’re practical, solution-based conversations.
2. Keynote Speakers
The conference features inspiring keynote speakers who’ve made a real difference in healthcare. Past speakers have included government leaders, patient advocates, and health IT pioneers.
3. Innovation & Connection Hub
This space acts as the heart of the conference. It’s where people meet, exchange ideas, see live demos of new technology, and hold casual conversations that often lead to big changes.
4. Work Group Meetings
Before the main conference kicks off, NCPDP hosts work group sessions. These smaller gatherings allow participants to roll up their sleeves and directly influence the standards used across the industry.
5. Networking Events
Whether it’s over breakfast, coffee, or cocktails, this conference offers plenty of time to build meaningful connections with others working in similar roles or tackling similar challenges.
Benefits of Attending
- Learn how pharmacy data standards are being improved in real-time
- Stay updated on the latest healthcare tech tools
- Connect with experts who are changing how prescriptions and benefits are handled
- Be part of work groups that shape national standards
- Understand how regulations and policy are evolving
- Gain insight that helps improve patient outcomes
- Take home ideas you can apply to your organization right away
Registration Details
Pricing can vary based on membership status and how early you register. Here’s a general idea:
- Early bird pricing is available a few months in advance and can save a good amount
- Members of NCPDP usually pay a lower rate than non-members
- Non-members often get access to a membership bundle during registration
- There’s also usually a guest rate if you’re bringing someone along
Optional pre-conference work group sessions are typically free for members and low-cost for others. It’s recommended to register early to get the best rates and to secure your spot at any limited-capacity sessions.
Where to Stay
The Westin Kierland Resort & Spa is the main hotel for the event. It’s located right at the venue and offers:
- Comfortable, quiet rooms
- Great dining options
- A relaxing spa
- Scenic walking paths
- On-site amenities perfect for after-hours networking
There are also nearby hotels in Scottsdale for every budget, from premium to affordable. Many are just a short drive or ride away.
Travel Tips
- Airport: Fly into Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, which is about a 25–30 minute drive to Scottsdale
- Transport: Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are easily available in the area
- Parking: On-site parking is available at the resort
- Weather: May in Scottsdale is warm and dry, so pack accordingly
How to Prepare
- Pick your sessions ahead of time. Look at the agenda when it’s released and choose the sessions most relevant to your work.
- Join a work group. It’s a rare chance to actually help shape how things are done across the pharmacy industry.
- Connect early. Don’t be shy about meeting new people—the event is known for being open and collaborative.
- Take notes and follow up. After the event, take time to reflect and reach out to new contacts. Many partnerships start at events like this.
- Explore the area. Scottsdale is a great place to recharge after a day of learning.
Final Thoughts
The NCPDP Annual Conference isn’t just another pharmacy or tech meeting. It’s a working event where people actually get things done. You’ll walk away with new ideas, stronger relationships, and a better understanding of where the industry is going—and how you can be part of it.
Whether you’re in pharmacy operations, data exchange, healthcare policy, or even startup innovation, this event helps you make a real impact. And with the relaxing desert backdrop of Scottsdale, you’ll have time to reflect, recharge, and return home with purpose.
To learn more and book your ticket, visit:
https://www.ncpdp.org/annual-conference