Nicholas Opalich: A Life in the Pharmaceutical Industry
Nicholas Opalich: A Life in the Pharmaceutical Industry
Nicholas Opalich, originating from Northeast Ohio, is an esteemed executive and consultant with a profound specialization in the pharmacy industry. He boasts an illustrious career spanning over 25 years, marked by significant achievements and deep expertise in the field, particularly in pharmaceutical mergers and acquisitions.
Nick's career is distinguished by several leadership roles in various sectors, including hospice pharmaceutical claims processing, pharmacy benefits, and drug manufacturing. His deep involvement in hospice and palliative care pharmacy operations, as well as his proficiency in mail-order pharmacy systems, specialty infusion services, and pharmaceutical procurement, has been pivotal in his success. His leadership skills have consistently driven company valuations upwards.
NHPCO, or the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization, now includes Nicholas as the Founder and CEO of HospiceChoice Rx. More on www.nhpco.org.
He has also been a mentor in numerous areas, ranging from hospice pharmacy operations to marketing and corporate business workflow processes, highlighting his diverse skill set.
Opalich's academic foundation was laid at David N. Myers University in Cleveland, Ohio, where he earned bachelor's degrees in both pharmacy and business management. His educational background underpins his comprehensive understanding of the industry.
Apart from his professional endeavors, Nick is a committed philanthropist, actively involved in charities focusing on animal welfare, poverty alleviation, public health, and homeless shelter services. His personal life is filled with passions for family, football, sailing, and wrestling.
As the Founder and CEO of HospiceChoice Rx, a pharmacy benefit manager specializing in Hospice that began operations in 2023, Nick Opalich is now focusing on contracts with major hospice providers. His firm is dedicated to delivering cost-effective pharmacy benefit administration while prioritizing patient care.
In 1988, he founded and led OPSIC and OPSIA, navigating these companies through complex changes and regulatory environments. Under his leadership, OPSIA acquired OPSIC and rebranded to Continental Healthcare, Inc., becoming a key player in organ and bone marrow transplant and a significant distributor for major pharmaceutical companies.
Founded in 2002, Strategica Health Partners, under Nicholas's guidance, specialized in healthcare services and pharmaceutical solutions. His role involved overseeing critical operations and engagements with prominent clients, establishing the firm as a notable consultancy in the field.
As CEO of InfinityRx from 2021 to 2022, Nick led the New Hyde Park, New York-based pharmaceutical manufacturer program administrator, focusing on a wide range of services from consumer engagement to data analysis.
In 1982, he was at the forefront of specialty infusion services with the founding of Home Infusion Systems, serving as president and CEO until 1987.
Nick’s consultancy role at Capital Rx, Inc. involved a significant project in specialty pharmaceutical and mail-order pharmacy space, further exemplifying his versatility in the field.
His academic journey began at Mayfield High School, leading to dual bachelor's degrees in pharmacy and business management from Meyers College in 1974, alongside active involvement in marketing and management societies.
Nicholas Opalich's current roles include being CEO of HospiceChoice Rx and a managing partner at Strategica Health Partners. He also contributes to the Advisory Board of Specialty Pharmacy News and AIS Health, while also participating in other notable healthcare investment and advisory boards.
Nick’s philanthropic activities are extensive, including support for the Lutheran Metropolitan Ministry's Lakeside Men's Shelter and mentorship programs in Cleveland.
A lover of the outdoors and sports, he is an avid football and wrestling fan, and enjoys challenging hikes, including memorable experiences in the Grand Canyon. His commitment to his family and friends is a cornerstone of his personal life.