At-Home Testing: How Can Pharmacy Play a Role?

The Total Pharmacy Solutions Summit session explored the transformative potential of at-home testing and how pharmacies can become comprehensive health care service providers in the post-COVID era. Jenna Anderson, CEO of KiHealth, and Amanda Wiley, marketing manager of HealthSource Marketing, highlighted the significant shifts in consumer health care preferences and the expanding role of pharmacies in preventative care.

The COVID-19 pandemic dramatically changed health care consumption, with 76% of Americans now interested in at-home testing and 61% reporting they make healthier decisions. Pharmacies are emerging as trusted health care hubs, with over 50% of consumers now viewing them as primary health care destinations. Anderson and Wiley emphasized that pharmacies are uniquely positioned to fill critical gaps in preventative care, especially given the shortage of primary care physicians and increasingly brief medical consultations.

At-home testing evolved significantly, with a wide range of diagnostic options now available, including tests for diabetes, gut health, cancer screening, fertility, and sexually transmitted infections. They showcased specific products like KiHealth's comprehensive health tests and Reese Pharmaceuticals' colorectal cancer screening test, highlighting the accuracy and convenience of these diagnostic tools. Notably, these tests are becoming more affordable and accessible, with many priced under $200 and available directly on pharmacy shelves.

Anderson and Wiley outlined key opportunities for pharmacies, including expanding diagnostic services, generating new revenue streams, and leveraging technology like artificial intelligence to improve patient engagement. Pharmacists can play a crucial role in guiding patients through at-home testing, providing education, and supporting follow-up care. They stressed that pharmacies are evolving from medication dispensaries to comprehensive health care service providers, with the potential to significantly impact preventative health and chronic disease management.

By embracing these innovations, pharmacies can not only improve patient outcomes but also position themselves at the forefront of a rapidly changing health care landscape.

Explore more of our coverage from the Total Pharmacy Solutions Summit Spring 2025: Clinical Practice Expansion