Retail pharmacies and the changing healthcare landscape adapting to new challenges

Retail pharmacies have been a staple of the healthcare industry for decades. However, the changing healthcare landscape has presented retail pharmacies with a number of challenges as they strive to remain competitive. In this article, we will explore the history and services provided by retail pharmacies, the changes in the healthcare landscape and how retail pharmacies are adapting to the new challenges.

Retail Pharmacy Industry Overview

Retail pharmacies have been around since the early 19th century and have evolved to become a key part of the healthcare system. Retail pharmacies provide a range of services including filling prescriptions, providing over-the-counter medications, offering health screenings and providing advice on medication use.

The retail pharmacy industry is a major player in the healthcare market, with an estimated market share of 33% of overall drug spending in the United States.

Changing Healthcare Landscape

The healthcare landscape has changed significantly in recent years, driven by advances in technology, changes in consumer preferences and an increasing focus on cost containment. These changes have had a significant impact on the retail pharmacy industry.

One of the major changes has been the reduction in reimbursement rates for prescription medicines. This has led to an increase in competition among retail pharmacies, as they strive to remain profitable in an increasingly competitive market.

In addition, the changing healthcare landscape has had an impact on the types of prescription medicines available, as more generic and over-the-counter medications become available. This has further increased competition among retail pharmacies, as they seek to provide the best possible service to their customers.

Adapting to New Challenges

Retail pharmacies are adapting to the changing healthcare landscape by adopting new technologies, increasing access to care and partnering with other healthcare providers.

Adopting New Technologies

Retail pharmacies are beginning to adopt new technologies such as electronic medical records, robotic automation and prescription fulfillment automation. These technologies can help streamline the pharmacy’s operations, reduce costs and improve customer service.

Increasing Access to Care

Retail pharmacies are also increasing access to care by offering delivery services, mobile applications and telehealth services. These services can help to make healthcare more accessible and convenient for patients.

Partnering with Other Health Care Providers

Retail pharmacies are also partnering with other healthcare providers, such as hospitals and primary care physicians. This can help to improve the quality of care and reduce costs by collaborating on patient care plans.

Conclusion

The changing healthcare landscape has presented retail pharmacies with a number of challenges. However, retail pharmacies are adapting to these changes by adopting new technologies, increasing access to care and partnering with other healthcare providers. By doing so, retail pharmacies can remain competitive in an increasingly challenging market.

References

1. National Association of Chain Drug Stores. 2018. “Retail Pharmacy Facts & Figures”. Available from: https://www.nacds.org/industry-facts/retail-pharmacy-facts-figures/.
2. American Pharmacists Association. 2019. “Retail Pharmacy: Positioning for the Future”. Available from: https://www.pharmacist.com/retail-pharmacy-positioning-future.
3. US Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. 2017. “Medicare Part D: A Quick Guide”. Available from: https://www.cms.gov/Medicare/Prescription-Drug-Coverage/PrescriptionDrugCovContra/Downloads/PartDQuickGuide.pdf.