Pharmacy in the Era of Telehealth

Although telehealth existed before the COVID-19 pandemic, its popularity surged in response to social distancing efforts and widespread lockdowns a year ago. Legislators temporarily lifted many barriers to its adoption, allowing expanded use among providers and patients. This begs the question: How will telehealth evolve beyond the pandemic?

It’s safe to assume that telehealth won’t completely replace in-person health care. Patients won’t stop visiting their local pharmacies. But pharmacists can learn how to better integrate technology and telepharmacy models to enhance the already quality care they provide. In this issue’s cover story, we dive into the innovative ways pharmacists are doing just that––from remote sterile compounding to secure medication storage and virtual care consults. Click here to learn more.

As these changes bring the industry a new level of insight, Drug Topics® aims to continue to serve its readers with practical insights and relevant information. We recognize that the independent pharmacy channel is an integral part of the nation’s health care system, accounting for 35% of pharmacy locations. To serve this group of pharmacy professionals, last month we launched Total Pharmacy®, a new resource designed to provide accessible information and actionable business solutions for professionals in the independent pharmacy space. The unique patient experience offered by these stores improves access and outcomes in today’s value-based health care model, and we look forward to supporting the needs of this niche group. You’ll find dedicated resources in each Drug Topics® issue, such as this month’s piece on measuring profitability performance on Drug Topics® and online at Totalpharmacy.com. 

In this issue, you’ll also find coverage from the American Pharmacists Association 2021 Annual Meeting & Exposition, which was held virtually from March 12-15. Learn more about updates in diabetes care and newly approved therapeutics. Click here for highlights from the conference’s annual immunization update session.

Thank you for reading,

Mike Hennessy Sr

Chairman and Founder of MJH Life Sciences™