Exploring the crucial role pharmacists play in healthcare.

When contemplating the key contributors influencing your healthcare journey, the immediate thought often gravitates toward doctors and nurses. However, amidst these vital roles, one integral figure tends to be overlooked: pharmacists. 

Today, over half of licensed pharmacists in the U.S. are Doctors of Pharmacy. They receive as much clinical instruction as medical doctors, and their expertise extends beyond what most patients see at the pharmacy. From identifying drug side effects to optimizing medication adherence, pharmacists serve as vital intermediaries between individuals and their health.

In an industry mired in complexity and with drug spending at an all-time high, ensuring that members have access to clinical pharmacy support is vital. Modern pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) bridge the gap between patients and pharmacists by facilitating access to expert, high-touch pharmacy guidance. So, what exactly do pharmacists do beyond counting and dispensing medications? And why is this support crucial for your teams?

Prioritize education.
Pharmacists empower patients with knowledge about their medications. They take the time to explain each prescription, ensuring patients understand dosage, potential side effects, and how to administer the drug correctly. Pharmacists also address concerns and recommend lifestyle changes to improve effectiveness. Personalized guidance empowers patients to make informed decisions about their health, fostering a sense of confidence and active participation in their care that improves their treatment well-being.

Increase medication adherence.
Nearly 50% of patients do not take their medications as prescribed, which can lead to dangerous health complications. Barriers such as high drug costs, lack of education, or not understanding why they need the medication can all contribute to poor prescription management. Pharmacists aim to remove these barriers by taking the extra time to recommend less expensive alternatives, answer questions, and explain treatment plans, resulting in higher medication adherence.

Prevent adverse reactions.
Every year, around 1.3 million people end up in the emergency room due to medication-related complications. From dangerous drug interactions, like mixing some antibiotics and blood thinners, to accidental overdoses, these incidents carry potentially life-threatening consequences. Luckily, they're avoidable with pharmacist intervention. Clinical pharmacists diligently review medication profiles, cross-referencing prescriptions to identify potential adverse reactions. Their expertise allows them to flag any concerns and collaborate with providers to find alternative solutions or adjust dosages, ensuring patient safety.

Save employers and members money.
Pharmacists, armed with extensive knowledge about medication costs, insurance plans, and available discounts, help patients access affordable drugs. They suggest high-quality generic alternatives to brand-name medications, which are just as effective but cost less, and direct them to savings programs and coupons. Additionally, they ensure patients take their medications properly to minimize the chances of costly complications or readmissions, reducing healthcare costs down the line.

So, how can you make sure your teams have access to this invaluable source of clinical pharmacy support? Partner with a PBM like Rightway that provides high-touch pharmacy guidance to its members. Dedicated clinical pharmacists work one-on-one with members to offer a better pharmacy experience, guiding them to optimal medication regimens and savings opportunities. Their expertise drives your teams to the highest-value medications, making a profound impact on their well-being and your bottom line.

Want to give your employees transformational pharmacy navigation? Connect with us.