The everyday corner pharmacy may soon become your go-to spot not just for prescription refills but also for an expanded spectrum of healthcare services. Michael Hegener from the University of Cincinnati recently outlined the impending transformations in community pharmacies as they prepare to broaden their clinical roles. In an article in Drug Topics, Hegener emphasized the growing responsibility pharmacies have in providing preventive care and routine medical services.
During discussions with Drug Topics, Hegener noted that immunizations have had the most significant impact on patient care, a trend that was significantly highlighted during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic. "Now, pharmacy across the board of the community setting is seen as a one-stop shop for all your vaccination needs," stated Hegener via the UC News, detailing an evolving landscape where pharmacies are reenvisioned as integral parts of the healthcare system. However, to sufficiently cater to rising demands, Hegener pointed out the need to seamlessly integrate new workflows into the pharmacy setting, which were traditionally designed for medication dispensing only.
In light of these shifts, pharmacies are expected to transition toward an appointment-based model for advanced patient care. "For advanced patient care services, we'll need to move to more of an appointment-based model," Hegener told Drug Topics. He believes this shift is crucial for managing more complex health issues such as chronic diseases, which require ongoing follow-ups and increased interactions with pharmacists.
While impromptu services like vaccinations might still be offered on demand, Hegener projected that for dealing with chronic conditions, or administering tests for ailments such as strep throat and the flu, an appointment-based system is essential. It's meant to better provide resources and time allotment crucial for focusing on patient care. "For some of those things like chronic disease state management, test to treat for strep throat and flu and common cold, we would likely need to have an appointment-based model to be able to have the resources and time to focus on that patient," Hegener articulated during his interview with Drug Topics.
As pharmacies step up to fill these substantial clinical roles, it's not just a convenience for patients, but a pivotal step in public health. Hegener's observations from the University of Cincinnati article highlight the progressive steps pharmacies are taking to offer more than just prescription drugs, but a more personalized and comprehensive healthcare service tailored to various patient needs. This proactive approach in pharmacy care services might reshape the future of public health and patient engagement.
