Transformational Strategies for Optimizing Use of Medications and Related Therapies through Us Pharmacists and Pharmacies from 2021-2025: Findings from a National Study

Thornewill, Judah Antimisiaris Demetra Ezekekwu Emmanuel Esterhay Robert

ABSTRACT Background Non-optimized medication therapies (NOMTs) are associated with likely-avoidable illnesses and mortality affecting millions of people and costing an estimated $528 billion per year in excess health spending in the US. The COVID-19 pandemic brought into focus barriers limiting the ability of US pharmacists and pharmacies to provide services that can reduce NOMTs and improve US population health. Objectives This National Science Foundation Center for Health Organization Transformation study explored potential strategies that US pharmacists, pharmacies and their partners could implement to reduce NOMTs while also delivering other forms of value to US populations from 2021-2025 (during and after the COVID-19 pandemic). Methods A panel of senior leaders representing the US pharmacist/pharmacy sector participated in a four round Delphi process to identify unmet needs, barriers, change drivers and priority strategies for meeting those needs. Data was gathered and analyzed by public health researchers most of whom are outside the pharmacist/pharmacy sector. Results A comprehensive set of evidence-based strategies with potential to reduce NOMTs, protect and improve population health and wellbeing, and strengthen the sector were identified. Four transformational strategies were recommended: comprehensive payment and practice transformation, strengthening pharmacy data interoperability infrastructure, development of unifying measurement and management mechanisms, and development of a more robust national research infrastructure. Strengthening health equity was a cross-cutting strategy affecting all areas. Conclusion The results may be of interest to policymakers, pharmacists, pharmacies, physicians, nurses and other clinicians, pharmaceutical firms, plan sponsors, plans, health systems, clinics, aging care, digital technology companies, and others interested in optimizing outcomes from medications and related therapies for US populations.