Chichi Ilonzo Momah, PharmD, RPh, had a lifelong calling to pharmacy, nurtured by her experiences in a Nigerian American family where she helped her grandparents understand their medications. Witnessing their struggles within the healthcare system inspired her to become an advocate for those facing similar challenges. As the CEO and owner of Springfield Pharmacy in Springfield, Pennsylvania, part of the Good Neighbor Pharmacy network, Momah dedicates herself to advocating for her patients.
Springfield Pharmacy, established 11 years ago, has become a cornerstone of the community in Delaware County, Pennsylvania. Momah emphasizes the support and resources she's received from the Good Neighbor Pharmacy network, which have empowered her to optimize her business and better serve her patients in a region that lacked a health department prior to the pandemic. The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the community's health needs, and Momah, along with her dedicated team, aims to bridge these gaps in care.
Their vision for Springfield Pharmacy goes beyond being a trusted voice for healthcare; they aspire to be a beacon in the community, providing answers, resources, and guidance for health-related concerns. The pharmacy played a pivotal role in administering COVID-19 vaccines, even though the initial demand overwhelmed their supply. They eventually administered over 100,000 vaccines and were among the first to provide COVID-19 tests, antiviral medications, and monoclonal antibodies in the county.
Momah's passion for serving the underserved led her to take proactive measures to reach out to communities in need. She acknowledges that pharmacists often face recognition barriers when trying to serve these populations, especially as an independent pharmacy owner. However, her partnership with Good Neighbor Pharmacy and Cencora (formerly AmerisourceBergen) has amplified her advocacy efforts, allowing her to share impactful stories and connect with the underserved.
Being a member of the Good Neighbor Pharmacy network grants Momah access to a business coach who supports her in realizing her ambitious goals, from improving business operations to expanding community outreach. Her pharmacy has evolved beyond traditional dispensing, offering clinical services such as immunizations, point-of-care testing, and treatments for chronic diseases like hypertension and diabetes. Balancing her passion for patient care with the business aspect is crucial for Momah, who acknowledges the necessity of funds to support her patients.
Momah's pharmacy, Springfield Pharmacy, has earned a reputation as a beacon of hope in the community, attracting local leaders and partners interested in collaborating on various healthcare initiatives. Momah is actively involved in the Emergency Preparedness Division of Delaware County, ensuring the community's readiness for potential future emergencies.
Despite her efforts, Momah understands that some patients may remain skeptical about vaccines or healthcare recommendations. Her experience during the pandemic reinforced the importance of providing information as a specialist while respecting patients' autonomy in decision-making.
Looking ahead, Momah is excited about the evolving role of pharmacies in providing comprehensive care and expanding their services. She encourages other independent pharmacy owners and pharmacists to engage with local leaders and politicians, advocate for their businesses and patients, and persevere in the face of challenges.
Full article from Pharmacy Times here.