9 MAY 2024pharmacies, medication lockers offer an efficient way to manage prescriptions, freeing up staff to focus on direct patient care and consultation. We plan to implement 3 more lockers in the grocery chain within the next 12 months and will continue to expand this footprint into areas where pharmacy desserts exist.Parallel to the use rise of medication lockers is our health system strategy with the implementation of micro-pharmacies within clinics and healthcare facilities. These small-scale retail pharmacies are owned by the health system and integrated directly into some of our busier clinics. The goal is to offer a seamless transition from consultation to prescription fulfillment. Patients can have their prescriptions filled immediately after their doctor's visit, eliminating the need to make a separate trip to a pharmacy. These pharmacies also offer vaccinations that are billed through PBMs vs medical. In addition, these pharmacies are staffed by pharmacy technicians and remotely managed by pharmacists so 1 pharmacist can support more than 1 micro-pharmacy at a time making this solution more affordable. There are 2 micro-pharmacies live today with 4 more planned in the next 12 months.For many patients, especially those with chronic conditions, mobility issues, or those living in underserved areas, the ultimate solution for medication access is home delivery. This service, which has seen a significant increase in demand in recent years, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, ensures that patients receive their medications directly to their doorstep.Home delivery services are a new offering within our health system and targeted, today, supporting the virtual urgent care program so those that are sick at home and need a medication will have it delivered to their home the same day. For individuals at higher risk of complications from diseases like COVID-19, home delivery minimizes the need to visit crowded pharmacies, thereby reducing exposure to potential health risks. This method of medication distribution not only enhances convenience but also plays a crucial role in ensuring medication adherence, as patients are less likely to miss doses when their prescriptions are delivered to them.The integration of medication lockers, micro-pharmacies, and home delivery services represents a significant advancement in the way medications are distributed and accessed in our health system. These innovations address a critical need for more flexible, patient-centered healthcare solutions, catering to the diverse needs and circumstances of the patient population. The continued adoption and development of medication lockers, micro-pharmacies, and home delivery services in our system are pivotal in ensuring that all patients, regardless of their location or circumstances, have timely and convenient access to their medications. These innovations are more than just conveniences; they are essential components of a more accessible, equitable, and patient-centered healthcare system.In conclusion, as these technologies continue to evolve and become more integrated into our health system, they promise to make significant strides in ensuring that every patient has the resources they need to manage their health effectively. THE INTEGRATION OF MEDICATION LOCKERS, MICRO-PHARMACIES, AND HOME DELIVERY SERVICES REPRESENTS A SIGNIFICANT ADVANCEMENT IN THE WAY MEDICATIONS ARE DISTRIBUTED AND ACCESSED IN OUR HEALTH SYSTEM
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