Pharmacy-Based Care: An Untapped Asset in America's Health Care Strategy

Policy solutions to expand pharmacist scope, modernize reimbursement, and advance pharmacy-based care as a national health asset.

Millions of Americans struggle to find timely, affordable health care. Long wait times, high out-of-pocket costs, and shrinking provider networks make it even harder for patients in rural and underserved communities to access care.

One untapped solution? Community pharmacies.

Nine in 10 Americans live within 5 miles of a community pharmacy, and pharmacists now deliver a wide range of clinical services — from chronic disease management to preventive screenings to mental health support — that improve outcomes and reduce overall health spending.

"Pharmacy-Based Care: An Untapped Asset in America's Health Care Strategy" outlines how policymakers can strengthen pharmacy-based care through smarter regulation, modernized reimbursement, and better integration across the health system.

Developed by the Health Action Alliance with support from the National Association of Chain Drug Stores (NACDS), this briefing for payers ​​is part of a collection of resources, including a full research report and companion briefing sheets for other key audiences:

Research Report:
Closing the Care Gap: Community Pharmacies as Key Partners in Employer Health Strategies
A national study showing how employer-pharmacy partnerships can reduce health care costs while expanding access to quality care.

For Employers:
The Business Case for Employer-Pharmacy Partnerships
Practical steps for integrating pharmacy-based care into benefits strategies to cut costs, boost ROI, and improve employee access.

For Payers:
Pharmacy-Based Care: A Scalable Strategy for Payers To Cut Costs and Improve Access
Strategies for integrating pharmacists into provider networks and payment models to lower costs, expand access, and improve outcomes.

For more information or to explore partnership opportunities, please contact us at hello@healthaction.org.