<p>A new <a href="https://www.nacds.org/pdfs/comm/2014/pharmacist-role.pdf">report </a>from Avalere examines the potentially expanded role pharmacists could play in a rapidly evolving healthcare system. NACDS, along with other national pharmacy organizations, funded the report, “Exploring Pharmacists’ Role in a Changing Healthcare Environment,” which was released on May 21. </p>
<p>The report found, by focusing on recent research articles in the U.S., that many pharmacist services—including medication management, medication reconciliation and preventive care—are key in improving overall health outcomes and reducing costs at a critical juncture in healthcare delivery, when a strained healthcare system is struggling to meet demand in the face of expanded healthcare coverage mandated by the Affordable Care Act.</p>
<p>As payers, providers, and policymakers are considering strategies to deliver more efficient care in a challenging healthcare environment, the report points to evidence that pharmacist services have been shown to improve therapeutic outcomes and adherence to medications and contribute to reduced healthcare costs. The findings show that pharmacists are an underutilized resource who should to be more fully integrated in healthcare delivery.</p>
<p>The report recommends that as the healthcare delivery continues to shift toward more coordinated, cost effective, team-based care—such as accountable care organizations and patient-centered medical homes—future research should focus on the comprehensive services pharmacists provide, and how leveraging their abilities could positively impact a healthcare system in need of ongoing innovation and collaboration.</p>
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