Jackie Morse
The National Association of Chain Drug Stores (NACDS) discussed community health and wellness as top 2024 goals, as pharmacy leaders came together at the association’s Regional Chain Conference in Bonita Springs, Fla.
The theme of the event, held Feb. 11-13, was “Within Reach,” which summed up how these regional chain pharmacies view their goals.
In a Feb. 12 news release, NACDS Regional Chain Conference Chair Jackie Morse discussed how Meijer’s is serving communities in six states.
Morse is Meijer’s group vice president of pharmacy.
“Meijer’s commitment to community and to corporate citizenship comes to life every day in the pharmacy,” Morse said. “Food insecurity is one of Meijer’s most substantial giving pillars. Pharmacists are not only medication experts, but they are also so much more. We are excited to see how pharmacists’ role in total health and wellness transforms in the coming years.”
How pharmacy innovation can help communities
NACDS Chair Mike Wysong, the CEO of CARE Pharmacies, emphasized the importance of identity and innovation for pharmacies and the patients they serve.
“Remember who you are,” Wysong told attendees. “Remember why you do what you do. And don’t forget to tell your story.”
Wysong added that innovation must be accompanied by honor, courage, and service.
He shared details of recent visits to Discount Drug Mart, Publix, and Lewis Drug, all of which are regional pharmacy chains and NACDS members.
“Innovation is a piece of art and a core component of the pharmacy business,” Wysong said. “These NACDS member companies are creating new models of care, and they are defining a comprehensive approach to serving their customers well.”
Steven C. Anderson, NACDS President/CEO, said at the conference, “Even as we fight for pharmacy’s future, we are helping to create it: fulfilling pharmacy’s potential as a ‘one stop’ for America’s health and wellness needs. The ‘total store for the total person.’ I want to thank the 48 strategic partners here — the suppliers. You are here because you understand what NACDS is all about. You are right at the core of NACDS as we build this future.”
He added, “NACDS’ vision for the future of retail health includes sophisticated approaches. It is integrating pharmacy into value-based care. It is pharmacy data interoperability, which empowers payment for services. It is a federal bill (the Equitable Community Access to Pharmacist Services Act, H.R. 1770/S. 2477) to create a payment stream so seniors in Medicare can access pharmacy services. And it is enhancing pharmacists’ scope of practice in the states.”
Image courtesy NACDS