Ep. 40 - Chuck Melendi Unveils the Truth Behind Big Pharma - 02/25/2025

In this insightful episode of Working Healthcare, Meredith Hirsh sits down with Chuck Melendi for his first interview since leaving Johnson & Johnson, offering a rare, insider perspective on the complex world of Big Pharma. Chuck’s 30 years' experience navigating pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and biotechnology offers listeners a rare, insider perspective on the industry's inner workings. From the staggering $83 billion spent on research and development each year to the role pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) play in the pricing of medications, Chuck breaks down why Big Pharma is often misunderstood and scrutinized. He sheds light on how companies like Pfizer, Merck, and AbbVie use their financial power to impact public health and patient access, while offering insights into the fierce competition and strategies these giants employ. What’s behind the massive price disparity between the U.S. and other countries, and what can be done to fix it? Chuck pulls no punches, tackling the hard truths about pharmaceutical advertising, influence on doctors, and the tough choices that come with such a high-stakes industry. If you’ve ever wondered about the real story behind Big Pharma, this episode is a must-listen.