Pharmacists and Community-Based Pharmacies in an Expanded Role in Patient Care and Public Health in The U.S.

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic catalyzed the rapid integration of telehealth and digital health technologies, presenting both transformative opportunities and profound challenges in healthcare delivery. While these innovations promise to enhance access to care, they have also exposed and, in some instances, exacerbated existing health disparities. In response to these challenges, pharmacists have the potential to function in expanded roles as frontline healthcare providers, transitioning from traditional medication dispensers to key public health leaders. Community-based pharmacies emerged as critical hubs for vaccination campaigns, telepharmacy services, and chronic disease management, offering culturally responsive care in accessible spaces. This perspective paper explores the evolving role of pharmacists and community pharmacies in addressing health disparities through innovative care models that integrate digital health solutions and community-based outreach in roles as primary care pharmacists, health educators, recruiters for clinical trials, and facilitators for telehealth visits. By leveraging their trusted relationships within communities, pharmacists are uniquely positioned to promote digital literacy, increase diverse patient engagement in clinical trials, and advocate for culturally tailored care strategies. The paper underscores the ethical imperative of ensuring digital health equity while offering practical solutions for bridging the digital divide. It advocates for a reimagined pharmacy model that prioritizes access, equity, and innovation, positioning pharmacists and community pharmacies as pivotal change agents in building a more inclusive and just healthcare system. Through this inquiry, the paper calls on policymakers and healthcare leaders to adopt community pharmacy and pharmacist-driven strategies that advance health equity for all populations.