Pharmacists: Healthcare | Team

Trends in healthcare are changing to fulfill the rapidly transitioning environment. One area that has seen the most impact from this is the role of local pharmacists. The evolution of their role within the healthcare system has changed quite a bit over the past half-century.

Just 50 years ago, you would have walked into your pharmacy, picked up your medication, and left. There would be little to no interaction with the person who filled the prescription. There were no consultations explaining how to take the pills or discussing potential side effects. For all that information, you would have needed to consult your doctor.

Today, pharmacists are playing a bigger role in healthcare. Not only can they discuss important prescription-related information with their clients, but they are also able to help these same patients locate over-the-counter medication that won't interact with the medication they were just prescribed. A Gallup poll shows that approximately 81% of adults prefer to self-treat with OTC medications and rely on their local pharmacist for recommendations.

Not only are drugstores helping people find medications, but more of them are also offering basic vaccinations. Between 2007 and 2011, the number of pharmacists trained to deliver vaccines grew from 40,000 to 150,000. That number continues to grow as more people avoid waiting for a doctor's appointment and simply visit their neighborhood pharmacy.

The influx of people gaining access to healthcare through the Affordable Healthcare Act is also increasing the role of pharmacists in the community. People are asking their local stores for help as they determine which healthcare plans are right for them. Many pharmaceutical shops have someone on staff to help answer these questions, which often opens the door to other health-related conversations.

Pharmacists are building relationships with their patients. By creating a positive atmosphere, patients are more likely to stick to their prescription regimen. Some customers even refuse to pick up medications if their preferred pharmacist isn’t on duty. They trust this person with their health and feel uncomfortable discussing medications with someone else.

Pharmacies have become a place where you can find trusted medical advice without waiting for an appointment. In some areas, pharmacists even offer screenings and wellness programs to help you achieve better health. Larger retail chains have opened walk-in clinics, allowing you to access basic healthcare services all under one roof. The role of pharmacists has expanded significantly in the last 50 years, and it is likely to continue growing in the future.