Pharmacies Are Lifelines For Communities

For many people, the neighborhood pharmacy is just a place to fill a prescription or buy simple essentials when going to a larger grocery store or big box merchant is not convenient. Yet, the truth is that pharmacies can play a vital role in communities big and small. The local pharmacy is often the only option for individuals who cannot or are unable to travel further across town to manage healthcare needs. Likewise, these businesses provide a need when traditional healthcare services are unavailable. Here are a few ways that a local pharmacy can be beneficial to overall wellbeing.

1. Improving access to healthcare

Once upon a time, only two options existed for medical care: visiting a primary care provider (PCP) or going to the emergency room. However, if a person lived in a medical desert or had a job with hours incompatible with a traditional clinic, access to care was nearly impossible. Thankfully, many pharmacies have onsite staff who can provide general healthcare services. From providing walk-in vaccines to even offering urgent care, pharmacists are improving accessibility for underserved communities and people with more complex work schedules.

2. Keeping medicine affordable

Many prescriptions may be essential, but plenty are also incredibly expensive. Having to choose between a required medication and keeping gas in the car should not be an issue people face. However, local pharmacies can help. These locations can assist patrons in obtaining low-cost medications as well. Not only are neighborhood pharmacies often cheaper than big chains, but pharmacists may be able to offer better prices by using a sliding scale that adjusts for unique economic circumstances. Similarly, expert insight can mean recommending a generic alternative when possible or even helping customers sign up for patient assistance programs to subsidize costs.

3. Convenience and trust

One final factor that can improve wellbeing for pharmacy patrons is convenience and trust. With a local pharmacy that is part of the neighborhood, people build rapport with the onsite staff. Seeing a familiar face can put a person at ease when asking important questions about medication and potential interactions or side effects that might occur. Similarly, many pharmacies offer services like delivery, which again aids in making getting a prescription filled more convenient.

An important part of the community

A pharmacy is more than just a store that does business in the community. These businesses work with that community to meet its residents’ needs by serving as an extension of the healthcare world. Along with providing guidance on medications, features such as wellness care, a more flexible appointment schedule, and even providing financial assistance when possible are all key features that improve wellbeing and aid in building a healthier community overall.