The United States has significant rural areas, with Iowa being approximately 40% rural according to recent Census data. In rural communities, pharmacies play a crucial role in the healthcare system, as 89% of Americans live within 5 miles of a community pharmacy. Without local pharmacies in rural areas, services like dentistry, family medicine, and general medicine struggle to maintain viability, leading to increased risks of disease complications and hospital admissions.
Pharmacists play a central role in patient care as the most accessible healthcare providers for many patients. They have been stepping up to provide innovative solutions, including point-of-care testing services, HIV and STD/STI screenings, chronic medication management, and acting as community health workers.
The COVID-19 pandemic has increased awareness of the services offered by pharmacists and pharmacy technicians, such as telehealth services, point-of-care testing, and medication therapy management. However, telepharmacy services face challenges in some states due to legislative limitations.
Pharmacy technicians have also seen expanded roles, with some states allowing them to administer immunizations, but there is a need for permanent legislative changes to ensure sustainability. Additionally, community-based pharmacies have been involved in various programs, like the Diabetes Prevention Program, to combat public health concerns and improve patient access to care.
Pharmacists' services, including point-of-care testing and pharmacy-based management of infectious diseases, have demonstrated value in improving patient outcomes and reducing healthcare costs. Mobile clinics, such as the University of Iowa Mobile Clinic and VaxiTaxi, have also been introduced to improve access to care for underserved populations.
The pharmacy profession is evolving to address social determinants of health, with pharmacy technicians taking on roles as Community Health Workers (CHWs) to improve communication with patients, provide education, and connect patients with community resources. Community-based pharmacies are playing an increasingly vital role in addressing public health concerns, with pharmacists and technicians having a larger impact than ever before.
Full article from Pharmacy Times here.