Independent Pharmacies

Specialty edition

Independent pharmacies are becoming more popular every year. Families and friends open pharmacies and pass them down each generation, creating life long relationships with their patients.

Many independent pharmacies are looking to stock specialty medications or even transition into independent specialty pharmacies to keep up with chain pharmacies, such as Walgreens.

Patients taking these medications are usually cared for by an interdisciplinary team, a pharmacist plays a key role in their care. Having a close relationship with a patient and knowing their medical background can allow the pharmacist to have a better understanding of the patient. Having access to this type of information can give the patients healthcare team a better idea of what types of medication can work and what to expect from the therapy.

An independent pharmacist also knows the patient’s family history better than the patients doctor. The pharmacist spends more time getting to know the patient and isn’t restricted by time. Family history can play a key role in drug therapy for some patients.

However; opening an independent specialty pharmacy can be extremely difficult. Owners must make a huge investment in not only the business itself but also the medication costs. PBMs tend to stay away from working with independent pharmacies when it comes to specialty medications because they have a lower rebate than traditional medications.

Patients enjoy independent pharmacies because of the friendly environment and care they are provided with. An independent specialty pharmacy can provide patients with support, and personalized care that they might not receive at another pharmacy.