#United States #CVS Health #Woonsocket #Community Pharmacy #Pharmacy Care

The Transformation of Community Pharmacy: Insights from CVS Health's 2025 Rx Report

CVS Health has recently published its 2025 Rx Report with the tagline "Community Pharmacy Reimagined." This report delves into the shifting landscape of community pharmacies as they respond to the increasing demand for patient-centered care. The data is derived from a survey consisting of over 2,200 consumers and more than 1,060 pharmacy professionals, shedding light on significant trends shaping the future of pharmaceutical services.

Key Findings from the 2025 Rx Report

1. Increased Demand for Personalized Care

According to the report, nearly 80% of adults in the U.S. visited a pharmacy in the past year, with 42% expressing a preference for personalized, convenient care. This indicates a significant consumer inclination towards community pharmacies as trusted healthcare destinations.

2. Trust in Pharmacy Professionals

Trust remains a cornerstone of pharmacy care. The data reveals that approximately 77% of adults trust their local pharmacists, and 84% view pharmacies as reliable sources of health information.

3. Preference for In-Person Interactions

Despite the growing reliance on digital health services, a striking 80% of patients prefer face-to-face consultations, with nearly half indicating they would change pharmacies if only digital interactions were available. Furthermore, 97% of pharmacy professionals affirm that in-person care is still pivotal.

4. Pharmacy Team Aspirations

A compelling 75% of pharmacy staff are eager to expand their patient care capabilities, showcasing a clear desire among professionals to enhance their roles within the healthcare spectrum.

5. Embracing Technology

The report emphasizes that 65% of retail pharmacists are enthusiastic about integrating technology into their workflows. This technological adoption aims to create efficiencies, allowing pharmacists more time for direct patient care.

6. Future Pharmacists

With around 40% of pharmacy technicians expressing interest in becoming pharmacists, there is a growing need for scholarships and training programs to foster future talent in the medication care landscape.

CVS Health's Commitment

Len Shankman, Executive Vice President and President of Pharmacy and Consumer Wellness at CVS Health, highlighted the company's commitment to personalizing care based on patient needs. He underscored CVS Pharmacy's strategy of blending human connection with cutting-edge digital tools.

A Community Health Destination

CVS Pharmacy aims to be more than just a retail outlet by positioning itself as a vital health resource for local communities. To bolster this approach, CVS plans to open nearly 100 new pharmacy locations this year, with over 60 expanding from the recent Rite Aid acquisition in the Pacific Northwest. These establishments will feature a range of services, including immunizations, refills, and critical health essentials.

Supporting Pharmacy Teams with Smart Technology

Survey results underscore the crucial role of technology in enhancing pharmacy team efficiency. CVS is investing in innovations such as the SmartDUR™ drug utilization review system and a modernized pharmacy operating framework. These advancements are all designed to support team workflows and improve patient interactions.

Expanding Pharmacy Roles

The report notes that many pharmacy professionals aspire to see expanded scopes of practice, including the ability to prescribe certain medications. CVS has already broadened the range of services provided, such as vaccine administration and conducting testing for specific illnesses, contingent on state regulations. The company is also advocating for policies that support sustainable pharmacy practices, including the Ensuring Community Access to Pharmacy Services Act of 2025.

Towards a Sustainable Pharmacy Model

The 2025 Rx Report emphasizes the necessity for new reimbursement models to support community pharmacies, particularly as traditional frameworks have strained these essential services. CVS's CostVantage™ pricing model aims to offer transparent compensation based on drug costs and dispensing fees, ensuring fair returns on pharmacy services.

Investing in the Next Generation of Pharmacists

CVS Health is focusing on workforce sustainability through initiatives like tuition assistance and partnerships with pharmacy schools. Through programs like the PharmD Tuition Assistance Program, the company is actively preparing the next generation of pharmacists, ensuring continued access to trained professionals.

Conclusion

Community pharmacy is poised at a pivotal moment where demand is surging amidst market challenges. As CVS Health strives to integrate advanced technology with the personal touch of community care, it is redefining what pharmacy services can offer. With an extensive network of over 9,000 community health locations and a legacy of innovation spanning six decades, CVS Pharmacy is committed to not just adapting but leading the transformation of local pharmacy care into the future.

To learn more about the findings and insights from the 2025 Rx Report, visit CVSHealth.com/Rx-Report.