Journal Of The American Pharmacists Association[JOURNAL]
Sun
200 papers
Healthcare cost savings through hospital pharmacist-collaborative care in heart failure: A microsimulation study.
Van der Linden L, Van Aelst L, Walgraeve K … +4 more , Shao Q, Hellemans L, Budts W, Luyten J
J Am Pharm Assoc (2003) · 2026 Jul · PMID 42401227 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Heart failure (HF) is associated with high hospitalization rates and substantial healthcare costs. Pharmacist-collaborative interventions in HF can optimize medication management and have been shown to reduce...
BACKGROUND: Heart failure (HF) is associated with high hospitalization rates and substantial healthcare costs. Pharmacist-collaborative interventions in HF can optimize medication management and have been shown to reduce hospitalizations, but their economic impact in hospital settings remains unclear. OBJECTIVE: Estimate the healthcare payer cost of pharmacist-collaborative care in patients attending a HF clinic at a large Belgian hospital. METHODS: A microsimulation model was developed to estimate the healthcare payer cost of pharmacist-collaborative care in patients attending a HF clinic at a large Belgian hospital. The model compared total avoided hospitalization costs and pharmacist-related costs over a one-year horizon. Patient-level variability and parameter uncertainty were incorporated using Monte Carlo simulation. Input parameters, including number needed to treat (NNT) to avoid a hospitalization, pharmacist full-time equivalent (FTE) and annual cost, hospitalization cost, and weekly patient throughput, were represented by probabilistic distributions. Cost impact was summarized as mean, median and 95% credible intervals (CrI). Determinants of cost impact were explored using multivariable linear regression. The NNT threshold for cost neutrality was estimated. RESULTS: Across all simulations, the intervention achieved cost savings in 96.2% of scenarios, with mean annual savings of €93,899 (median €88,834; 95% CrI: €-4,350 to €226,549). Regression analysis indicated that each additional patient managed per week increased annual savings by €16,760 (p < 0.001), and each €1 increase in hospitalization cost increased savings by €17.25 (p < 0.001). In contrast, each one-unit increase in NNT was associated with a decrease in cost savings of €2,115 (p < 0.001). The patient-level NNT required for cost neutrality was 74. CONCLUSION: Pharmacist-collaborative interventions in HF care are highly likely to generate cost savings, particularly in HF clinics with higher patient throughput or settings with higher hospitalization costs. These quantitative thresholds provide practical guidance for the allocation and scaling of pharmacist resources in multidisciplinary HF programs.
Assessment of comprehensive medication management incorporating a patient-completed medical and medication history form in community practice.
Penny B, Lipari M, Gutenschwager DW … +8 more , Fava J, Kepley K, Noskey K, Nabolsi M, Thomas H, Marinco V, Lucarotti RL, Salinitri FD
J Am Pharm Assoc (2003) · 2026 Jul · PMID 42392571 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Community pharmacists provide direct patient care that requires patient health information. There is no standardized approach to obtaining health information and few studies in community pharmacy have assesse...
BACKGROUND: Community pharmacists provide direct patient care that requires patient health information. There is no standardized approach to obtaining health information and few studies in community pharmacy have assessed the feasibility and patient acceptability of the process for collecting medical and medication histories (MMH) through patient-completed electronic or paper formats. OBJECTIVES: Describe the development, implementation, and assessment of the feasibility and identification and follow-up of drug-related problems (DRPs) with the integration of a patient-completed electronic or paper MMH form in community pharmacy. Patient acceptability of a self-completed MMH was additionally assessed. PRACTICE DESCRIPTION: Four independent community pharmacies that serve urban communities and provide standard-of-care services collaborated with Wayne State University Eugene Applebaum College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences in Detroit (EACPHS). PRACTICE INNOVATION: A patient-completed MMH form was created at EACPHS. Student pharmacists/pharmacists integrated the electronic or paper patient-completed MMH forms into community practice. EVALUATION METHODS: This prospective Phase I and retrospective Phase II study conducted from 2019-2022 included patients over 18 years old. Phase I evaluated the time required for patients to complete the MMH and for student pharmacist/pharmacist review of the completed MMH with patients. Phase II incorporated the MMH in identifying DRPs and interventions. Post-surveys were conducted to assess patient acceptance. RESULTS: A total of 163 patients participated (50 in Phase I; 113 in Phase II). In Phase I, the mean time for patient completion of the MMH was 7.92 minutes (SD± 3.6 minutes). The median time for student pharmacist/pharmacist review was 4.46 minutes (IQR ± 3.9 minutes). In Phase II, 319 DRPs (n=113 patients) were identified through review of the MMH. Ninety-six percent (n=157) of patients participated in the survey with 92.4% agreeing to update the form on future visits. CONCLUSION: Integrating a patient-completed MMH form within community practice is feasible and supports pharmacists in providing patient care.
Characterizing how community pharmacy teams engage with social drivers of health (SDOH) during routine workflow: A report from the medication safety research network of Indiana (Rx-SafeNet).
Riley-Jensen EG, Adeoye-Olatunde OA, Zillich AJ … +2 more , Hubach RD, Snyder ME
J Am Pharm Assoc (2003) · 2026 Jun · PMID 42379373 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Social drivers of health (SDOH) are non-medical factors that are strong predictors of an individual's health. There are emerging examples regarding how community pharmacy teams engage with patients' SDOH-rela...
BACKGROUND: Social drivers of health (SDOH) are non-medical factors that are strong predictors of an individual's health. There are emerging examples regarding how community pharmacy teams engage with patients' SDOH-related needs; however, these examples often require additional services or workflows. There are no studies that investigate how community pharmacy teams currently engage with patients' SDOH-related needs in their routine workflows. OBJECTIVES: The objective of this study was to characterize how community pharmacy teams engage SDOH-related needs in their routine workflows. METHODS: This study collected cross-sectional, observational data through an electronic card study design. Pharmacists documented SDOH-related encounters via an electronic data collection form designed to take less than 1 minute to complete. The data collection form comprised multiple choice and "select all that apply" questions that characterized pharmacy workflow and the SDOH-related encounter, as well as free-text response questions to describe interventions and referrals completed by the pharmacy team. Community pharmacists were recruited through the Medication Safety Network of Indiana (Rx-SafeNet) and were randomly assigned to a 2-week data collection period during May and June 2025. Only one pharmacist per pharmacy could participate. RESULTS: Sixteen Indiana pharmacists across different community settings documented a total of 177 SDOH-related encounters. Most (n= 155, 87.6%) SDOH-related encounters occurred during the prescription dispensing process, commonly during prescription pick up, delivery, or counseling steps (n=72, 46.5%). Most of the encounters included an intervention (n=137, 77.4%) to address the SDOH-related needs while a referral was less common (n=23, 13.0%). CONCLUSION: Community pharmacists routinely engage with SDOH-related needs within their current workflows, specifically during the prescription dispensing process. Before community pharmacy teams expand their roles in SDOH services, it is important to consider the workflow and capacity of the pharmacy infrastructure.
Geographic disparities in board-certified ambulatory care pharmacists in Appalachia.
Davis C, Hess R
J Am Pharm Assoc (2003) · 2026 Jun · PMID 42331285 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: The Appalachian region experiences persistent health disparities and limited access to healthcare services. Ambulatory care pharmacists, including Board-Certified Ambulatory Care Pharmacists (BCACPs), can hel...
BACKGROUND: The Appalachian region experiences persistent health disparities and limited access to healthcare services. Ambulatory care pharmacists, including Board-Certified Ambulatory Care Pharmacists (BCACPs), can help address these gaps, but their distribution in Appalachia is not well described. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the distribution and population density of BCACPs in the United States, the Appalachian region, and rural Appalachian counties. METHODS: This cross-sectional study used publicly available data from the Board of Pharmacy Specialties (BPS) and the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC). BCACP data, including ZIP codes, were obtained from the BPS registry in August 2025. Counties were classified as Appalachian and further categorized as rural or non-rural using ARC definitions. BCACP density per 1,000,000 residents was calculated and compared across regions. Rate ratios (RR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated using Poisson regression, with U.S. density as the reference. RESULTS: BCACP density was lower in the Appalachian region compared to the United States overall and was lowest in rural Appalachian counties. Compared with the national BCACP density, the BCACP rate was 24% lower in Appalachia (RR 0.76, 95% CI 0.69-0.85; p<0.001) and 73% lower in rural Appalachian counties (RR 0.27, 95% CI 0.15-0.47; p<0.001). CONCLUSIONS: BCACPs are underrepresented in Appalachia, highlighting a gap in access to specialized ambulatory care services. Addressing this gap will require targeted recruitment and retention strategies, including early pipeline development, financial incentives such as loan forgiveness, and ensuring practice sites are ready to support pharmacist integration. Expanding access to ambulatory care pharmacists may help improve care delivery and reduce health disparities in these communities.
Development of consensus criteria for problematic medications in active duty service members.
Costantino RC, Brandt NJ, Perfetto EM … +2 more , Hull JR, Mullins CD
J Am Pharm Assoc (2003) · 2026 Jun · PMID 42315020 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Medications play an essential role maintaining the health and readiness of active duty service members (ADSMs). Despite the importance of aligning medication use with operational requirements, there is no sta...
BACKGROUND: Medications play an essential role maintaining the health and readiness of active duty service members (ADSMs). Despite the importance of aligning medication use with operational requirements, there is no standardized, replicable framework for identifying Problematic Medications in Active Duty Service members (ProMADS). OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to develop a consensus-based list of ProMADS criteria to inform medical readiness efforts across the Military Health System. METHODS: A modified, two-round Delphi process was used to achieve expert consensus on explicit ProMADS criteria. Thirteen multidisciplinary panelists, selected for their clinical and operational expertise, independently reviewed and rated an existing set of ProMADS recommendations and rationales. Agreement was defined a priori as ≥75% of panelists endorsing both the recommendation and rationale. Panelists were invited to propose new criteria for consideration in Round 2. Responses were analyzed quantitatively for consensus and qualitatively for iterative refinement. RESULTS: In Round 1, 10 of 17 (58.8%) criteria reached consensus. In Round 2, panelists reached consensus on all 17 previously introduced criteria and 4 of 7 (57.1%) new criteria suggested by participants, resulting in a final list of 21 consensus-based ProMADS criteria. Medications achieving consensus were generally categorized into five operationally relevant groups: Controlled Substances, Injectables, Refrigerated/Storage-Dependent Medications, Immunomodulators, and Blood Modifiers. Statements focused on operational feasibility such as avoidance of medications requiring frequent monitoring, refrigeration, or that might interfere with the treatment of a trauma injury. CONCLUSION: This study generated 21 consensus-driven ProMADS criteria, offering a replicable framework for identifying medications that may compromise deployment readiness. These findings can be integrated into clinical decision support, deployment screening, and policy development within the Military Health System.
Barriers and facilitators to pharmacy-based methadone dosing and dispensing: Semi-structured interviews with pharmacists.
Marley G, Nunnery MA, Shubel C … +2 more , Carpenter D, Ostrach B
J Am Pharm Assoc (2003) · 2026 Jun · PMID 42315019 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Access to methadone for the treatment of opioid use disorder (OUD) in the United States is currently limited to opioid treatment programs (OTPs), although proposed legislation may allow for pharmacy-based dis...
BACKGROUND: Access to methadone for the treatment of opioid use disorder (OUD) in the United States is currently limited to opioid treatment programs (OTPs), although proposed legislation may allow for pharmacy-based dispensing. Community pharmacies are well-positioned to increase patient access to methadone for OUD; however, limited research has evaluated the anticipated barriers and facilitators to pharmacy-based methadone services among pharmacists. OBJECTIVES: The objective of this paper is to describe North Carolina community pharmacists' perceptions of and anticipated barriers and facilitators to pharmacy-based methadone treatment. METHODS: Semi-structured interviews were conducted from April to June 2025 with a nested sample of 20 North Carolina community pharmacists. Pharmacists were purposively sampled based on pharmacy rurality as well as their attitudes toward pharmacy-based methadone dispensing. Interviews assessed the barriers and facilitators to the implementation of pharmacy-based methadone access through two models: 1) medication unit model partnership with an OTP; and 2) the Modernizing Opioid Treatment Access Act (MOTAA), which would allow pharmacists to dispense methadone for OUD similar to other controlled medications. RESULTS: Participants believed pharmacy-based dispensing would increase patients' methadone access and potentially reduce stigma associated with treatment. The primary concern was the potential for increased misuse and diversion. Stigmatizing beliefs held by other pharmacists was identified as a major implementation barrier. Most pharmacists preferred the MOTAA model of methadone dispensing over the medication unit model because it could be more easily implemented into the workflow; however, concerns related to wholesaler ordering thresholds emerged. Pharmacists identified a lack of time and physical space to observe dosing as barriers to the medication unit model. In both models, pharmacists identified the following facilitators: 1) financial reimbursement, 2) increased communication with prescribers, and 3) training. CONCLUSION: Multiple factors influence pharmacists' perceptions of methadone dosing and dispensing for the treatment of OUD in community pharmacies. Pharmacists identified needs for implementation including increased training, financial reimbursement, as well as streamlined communication with prescribers.
A bibliometric analysis describing the global scope of pharmacist roles (2000-2024).
Nelson NR, Chen AMH, Yu F … +12 more , Carlson R, Thornby KA, Daugherty KK, Chung EP, Churchwell MD, Sibicky SL, Kleppinger EL, Parker D, Ragucci KR, Stowe CD, Brock TP, Rhoney DH
J Am Pharm Assoc (2003) · 2026 Jun · PMID 42309280 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: The roles of pharmacists are expanding in response to shifts in the healthcare environment and public need. An update on global expansion of pharmacists' scope of practice is needed to better understand the c...
BACKGROUND: The roles of pharmacists are expanding in response to shifts in the healthcare environment and public need. An update on global expansion of pharmacists' scope of practice is needed to better understand the current and future directions of pharmacy practice. A bibliometric analysis is an effective way of examining the literature to provide valuable insights. OBJECTIVE: To describe the characteristics, trends, and interconnections of pharmacy-related publications addressing the scope of pharmacist-provided services. METHODS: A comprehensive literature search using keywords and subject headings for pharmacist-related scope of practice was conducted. The results were imported to Covidence and underwent title and abstract screening, then categorized into practice scope and pharmacist roles. A bibliometric analysis was used to describe the characteristics and trends as well as co-occurrence networks (i.e., connections) across thematic categories. RESULTS: From 6000 initial studies, a total of 1831 publications from 2000 to 2024 in 435 journals were included. Eight different pharmacy practice settings were identified, of which, Community, Hospital, and Ambulatory Care were the most frequently reported with 724 (39.5%), 592 (32.3%), and 430 (23.5%) publications, respectively. The most frequently reported subcategories were Patient Counseling and Medication Therapy Management, identified as the top 2 co-occurrence for all three practice settings. Clinical Outcomes, Health Care Quality, Substance Use Disorder Management, Telepharmacy, and Pharmacogenomics were identified more frequently in recent publications. CONCLUSION: This study used bibliometric analysis to examine the past and current trends in the scope of pharmacy practice globally. The results show that the scope of pharmacists is expanding beyond traditional dispensing roles, while also showing emerging practice areas in recent years that align with the current changes in health care and society.
Ensuring continuous buprenorphine access: A multi-component quality improvement initiative in a university-affiliated clinic and outpatient pharmacy.
Choo LY, Zheng W, Wen S … +4 more , Lapkowicz J, Thornton D, Kang K, Winstanley EL
J Am Pharm Assoc (2003) · 2026 Jun · PMID 42309279 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Patients with opioid use disorder encounter challenges obtaining buprenorphine (BUP) at pharmacies, increasing their risk of treatment non-adherence and illicit drug use. OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this quali...
BACKGROUND: Patients with opioid use disorder encounter challenges obtaining buprenorphine (BUP) at pharmacies, increasing their risk of treatment non-adherence and illicit drug use. OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this quality improvement (QI) initiative was to implement and evaluate a multi-component intervention to ensure continuous BUP access. METHODS: Using a quasi-experimental study design, the initiative was developed and a convenience sample was recruited from an outpatient BUP treatment program and a pharmacy affiliated with the West Virginia University health system between November 20, 2023, to November 29, 2024. The QI intervention consisted of education, use of pharmacy-integrated electronic medical record (EMR), BUP delivery and adherence support and/or assistance with BUP dispensing. Participants selected the intervention or wait-list control group based on their choice of pharmacy. The intervention was offered to the intervention group over a 3-month period. Proportion of days covered was the primary outcome measure for continuous BUP access. Clinical data were extracted from participants' EMR and electronic satisfaction surveys were administered to all participants following the intervention. RESULTS: Study participants included 56 patients prescribed sublingual BUP, 14 pharmacy staff, and 19 clinic staff. Nine patient participants (16.07%) received medication delivery, and 8 patient participants (14.28%) received medication adherence support and/or assistance with BUP dispensing. There was no significant difference in the mean proportion of days covered (PDC) for BUP between the intervention (97.31%) and control group (94.90%) (p=0.32). Compared to the control group, the intervention group had lower retention rates (76.92 % vs. 97.37%, p=0.02) and was more likely to report satisfactory waiting time to receive BUP (X=4.85; 100 % vs. 64.50%, p=0.028). CONCLUSION: The intervention was successfully implemented and highly rated; however, it did not significantly increase the PDC of BUP. Challenges with BUP dispensing persist and future research addressing these multi-level barriers are urgently needed.
Embracing passion, purpose, and joy.
Bittner MR
J Am Pharm Assoc (2003) · 2026 May · PMID 42301179 · Publisher ↗
Abstract loading — click title to view on PubMed.
Project IMPACT Cardiovascular Health+: Pharmacy services for better cardiovascular health.
Bluml BM, Little J, Bennett M … +2 more , Scovis N, Bonham AJ
J Am Pharm Assoc (2003) · 2026 Jun · PMID 42297189 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Atrial fibrillation (Afib) is a leading cause of stroke and is frequently underdiagnosed. Pharmacists are often the most accessible provider and have the expertise and training to screen for and impact cardio...
BACKGROUND: Atrial fibrillation (Afib) is a leading cause of stroke and is frequently underdiagnosed. Pharmacists are often the most accessible provider and have the expertise and training to screen for and impact cardiovascular risk and address social determinants of health (SDOH). OBJECTIVES: The aims of this research were to create an Afib screening access point in the community, to increase access to medication therapy management (MTM) for cardiovascular risk reduction, and to address SDOH. PRACTICE DESCRIPTION: Forty community pharmacies in 20 states participated in this project. Participating patients presented to a pharmacist for usual and customary care at a participating pharmacy, met all inclusion criteria, and provided informed consent. PRACTICE INNOVATION: Pharmacists offered the Cardiovascular Health+ service, which included (1) Screening for SDOH, (2) Completion of a validated Stroke Risk Assessment, (3) Point-of-care electrocardiogram (EKG) testing, and (4) Assessment of the need for MTM services. EVALUATION METHODS: Descriptive statistics were used to analyze patient demographics as well as frequencies and relative frequencies of visit components. EKG and stroke risk assessment findings were further analyzed for trends related to demographic factors. Logistic regression was used to identify correlations various factors and outcomes of interest. RESULTS: 2,105 participants were enrolled. 4,037 EKG assessments were performed with Afib accounting for 173 (23.6%) of abnormal findings. Afib readings were present in 4.7% of participants compared to 1.5% in the general U.S population (p < 0.001). Fifty-five patients were referred to other providers based on the results of the stroke risk assessment, EKG, or both. 4,186 responses were collected for SDOH screening and 276 patients (13%) were identified with medication SDOH needs. The survey of participating pharmacies identified common barriers to sustainability including fair compensation for pharmacist services. CONCLUSION: Community pharmacists have a vital role and demonstrated that they can serve as an additional access point in the identification of Afib and other abnormal rhythms, cardiovascular risk, and SDOH factors. This research shows the significant Afib identification rates that can be accomplished in community pharmacies and presents a solution for scaling the delivery of accessible patient care services that reduce cardiovascular risk.
Lost in Translation: A Pharmacist's Journey With Interpreter Use.
Williams SD
J Am Pharm Assoc (2003) · 2026 Jun · PMID 42285303 · Publisher ↗
Abstract loading — click title to view on PubMed.
Post-bariatric surgery adherence to clinical pharmacist recommendations in the ambulatory-care setting: A 6-month post-surgery analysis.
Shachar-Sayas L, Dahan AE, Shimoni O … +2 more , Dahan A, Azran C
J Am Pharm Assoc (2003) · 2026 Jun · PMID 42276380 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Clinical pharmacist consultations play a vital role in optimizing medication management for bariatric patients. However, post-discharge implementation remains largely unknown. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this work...
BACKGROUND: Clinical pharmacist consultations play a vital role in optimizing medication management for bariatric patients. However, post-discharge implementation remains largely unknown. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this work was to characterize the different types of recommendations made by clinical pharmacists in bariatric patients, and to assess adherence to these recommendations in the ambulatory-care setting. METHODS: A retrospective analysis was conducted at Herzliya Medical Center (HMC), where patients were operated, and Clalit Health Services, the largest Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) in Israel. A total of 210 bariatric patients received clinical pharmacist consultation and a letter to the community clinics between 2013 and 2019. In phase one, we analyzed the types and frequency of recommendations provided. In phase two, adherence in the community was evaluated using HMO medical records over six months post-discharge. RESULTS: In the first analysis of 210 patients, there was a mean of 9 recommendations per patient. The most common were drug discontinuation (40.9%) and new medication addition (14.8%). Recommendations often addressed chronic conditions, mainly diabetes (36.9%) and hypertension (31.8%). In total, 153 Clalit HMO patients were analyzed for adherence. The overall adherence rate was 77.7%. No significant correlations were found with age, comorbidities, or pre-operative medication count to adherence rate. A significant negative correlation was observed between adherence and the number of recommendations (p=0.007). CONCLUSION: The high adherence rate to hospital clinical pharmacist's recommendations highlights the value of specialized clinical pharmacist consultation in bariatric care. These consultations may improve implementation of treatment plans among both patients and healthcare providers.
Redefining possible.
McDonough RP
J Am Pharm Assoc (2003) · 2026 May · PMID 42274431 · Publisher ↗
Abstract loading — click title to view on PubMed.
Finding Common Ground.
Rife-Pennington T
J Am Pharm Assoc (2003) · 2026 Jun · PMID 42269867 · Publisher ↗
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Expanding access to diabetes self-management and education programs through community pharmacy referrals: A statewide implementation evaluation.
Daly C, Foster A, Chen EL … +1 more , Jacobs DM
J Am Pharm Assoc (2003) · 2026 Jun · PMID 42251894 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Diabetes self-management education and support (DSMES) improves glycemic control but remains underutilized, particularly among underserved populations. Community pharmacy professionals offer highly accessible...
BACKGROUND: Diabetes self-management education and support (DSMES) improves glycemic control but remains underutilized, particularly among underserved populations. Community pharmacy professionals offer highly accessible settings to identify and refer high-risk patients who may not be reached through traditional care pathways. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the implementation of a statewide community pharmacy-based DSMES referral program, specifically assessing program reach, effectiveness (attendance), and implementation feasibility using the RE-AIM framework. METHODS: This retrospective implementation evaluation was conducted across 19 New York pharmacies (CPESN-NY) from May to July 2021. Adults with type 2 diabetes were screened using prescription records, health information exchange (HIE) data, and point-of-care (POC) A1c testing. Standardized workflows followed ADA/ADCES guidelines to categorize referral urgency. Primary outcomes included program reach (patient demographics), 3-month DSMES attendance, and implementation feasibility (staff perceptions and workflow adherence). RESULTS: Of 390 patients screened, 347 (89.0%) had documented A1c values, which were utilized to determine referral urgency. The analytic sample had a mean age of 61.1 years; 45.8% identified as White, 20.7% as Black, and 17.6% as Hispanic; 70.9% were publicly insured. Patients were primarily identified via prescription records (73%); A1c data were obtained via POC (50%) or HIE (17%). Pharmacists made strong/moderate referrals for 70% of patients. Among 161 patients with 3-month follow-up, 11% attended DSMES. Barriers included patient refusal (30%), scheduling (21%), and transportation (12%). Most community pharmacy professionals (94%) reported sufficient screening time, and 91% found HIE access helpful. CONCLUSION: Community pharmacy professionals effectively identify and refer high-risk, diverse populations to DSMES. While identification is feasible, improving attendance requires addressing patient-level barriers through supportive policy, reimbursement mechanisms, and deeper health system integration.
What do we mean by "women's health"? Gendered terminology and patient communication in pharmacy practice.
Pauling EE
J Am Pharm Assoc (2003) · 2026 Jun · PMID 42251893 · Publisher ↗
Pharmacists increasingly provide services related to reproductive and sexual health to diverse patient populations whose health needs may not align with traditional gendered terminology. For example, the term "women's he...
Pharmacists increasingly provide services related to reproductive and sexual health to diverse patient populations whose health needs may not align with traditional gendered terminology. For example, the term "women's health" is widely used in pharmacy practice to describe areas such as contraception, pregnancy, menopause, and sexual health. While this terminology has historically highlighted important gaps in research and care, evolving understandings of gender identity and patient-centered care invite reconsideration of how such language is used in clinical practice. This commentary explores how commonly used language may shape clinical assumptions, patient communication, and clinical interactions, and considers the potential value of using more precise, anatomy- and condition-based terminology. Practical examples are provided to illustrate how small adjustments in phrasing may support clearer, more inclusive communication in patient care.
The decline in pharmacy access across Minnesota, 2009-2025.
Moore E, Sorge L, Goldner E … +6 more , Styles E, Okoro O, Westberg S, Punjabi A, Peacock J, Pereira C
J Am Pharm Assoc (2003) · 2026 Jun · PMID 42250857 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Community pharmacies continue to be a valuable access point for community health needs, bridging the gap in healthcare between patients and resources. Despite their expansion of services and positive impact o...
BACKGROUND: Community pharmacies continue to be a valuable access point for community health needs, bridging the gap in healthcare between patients and resources. Despite their expansion of services and positive impact on patient health outcomes, an increasing number of pharmacies across the country are closing, leaving a large number of patients without pharmacy access. OBJECTIVES: To understand pharmacy access across Minnesota communities, including tracking pharmacy openings and closures over time to identify pharmacy deserts and develop a foundational structure for ongoing monitoring of pharmacy access and informing public health and policy decisions. METHODS: We conducted retrospective data review of community pharmacy openings and closures across Minnesota between October 2009 and August 2025 using activity status of a pharmacy license per the Minnesota Board of Pharmacy and ERSI ArcGIS software to geocode active community pharmacies across 6 time points between 2009 and 2025. Pharmacy deserts were defined and identified at the census tract level at each time period. Keystone pharmacies were defined as pharmacies that were the only one serving a census tract within the defined distance threshold. RESULTS: Between October 2009 and August 2025, there was a net loss of 156 (15%) community pharmacies. Census tracts classified as pharmacy deserts increased from 44 to 58 (3.9% of Minnesota census tracts), with the population living in pharmacy deserts increasing from 142,659 to 189,222 (3.3% of Minnesota residents). Of the remaining 867 pharmacies, 129 (15%) were identified as keystone pharmacies. CONCLUSION: Pharmacy access across Minnesota has worsened in the last 15 years, leaving fewer pharmacies to serve a growing population. Further monitoring of pharmacy access is necessary to advocate for policy reform and the protection of community health access.
Availability and Cost of Naloxone Over Time: A Longitudinal Secret Shopper Study in North Carolina Community Pharmacies.
Johnson JM, Marley GT, Annis IE … +1 more , Carpenter DM
J Am Pharm Assoc (2003) · 2026 Jun · PMID 42242463 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Data on long-term longitudinal trends in naloxone availability and cost following the introduction of both brand-name and generic over-the-counter (OTC) products are sparse. OBJECTIVES: To examine how naloxon...
BACKGROUND: Data on long-term longitudinal trends in naloxone availability and cost following the introduction of both brand-name and generic over-the-counter (OTC) products are sparse. OBJECTIVES: To examine how naloxone availability and cost changed over time in North Carolina (NC) and explore variation by pharmacy type, rurality, and product type (generic vs. brand-name). METHODS: We conducted a three-phase secret shopper study: phase 1 (March-April 2023; before OTC sales began), phase 2 (November 2023-January 2024; ∼2 months after OTC sales began), and phase 3 (November 2024-January 2025; ∼1 year after OTC sales began). Trained shoppers called a stratified sample of pharmacies to inquire about naloxone nasal spray cost and same-day availability. Generalized linear mixed-effects models examined changes in cost and availability, adjusting for pharmacy type and rurality. Phase 3 cost and availability differences in product type were examined using nonparametric and Fisher's exact tests. RESULTS: A total of 174 pharmacies provided data for all phases; 54.6% chain and 45.4% independent; 43.6% urban, 14.4% suburban, and 42.0% rural. Same-day availability increased significantly (phase 3 vs. phase 1: OR=2.59, P=0.0005). Adjusted mean out-of-pocket cost decreased across phases ($98 phase 1, $67 phase 2, $56 phase 3; P<0.0001). Independent pharmacies were approximately $14 more expensive (P<0.0001) and had lower odds of same-day availability than chain pharmacies (OR=0.14, P<0.0001). No significant rurality differences were observed. Generic naloxone was more expensive on average than brand-name ($59.83 vs. $49.23), though median costs were similar. Availability for both product types was low for both chains and independents. Chains primarily stocked brand-name naloxone (58.2%), whereas independents were more evenly split between brand-name only (44.8%) and generic only (50.0%). CONCLUSION: Naloxone availability and cost improved over time. Independent pharmacies continued to have lower availability and higher costs than chain pharmacies. Generic naloxone was more expensive on average than brand-name naloxone, and few pharmacies stocked both products.
A quantitative and qualitative study of US FDA inspection reports of 503B outsourcing facilities.
McCall KL, Lynch SE, Hageman EA … +1 more , Williams KG
J Am Pharm Assoc (2003) · 2026 Jun · PMID 42242462 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: 503B outsourcing facilities were established under the Drug Quality and Security Act of 2013 to address safety concerns in pharmaceutical compounding by enabling large-scale sterile drug production under US F...
BACKGROUND: 503B outsourcing facilities were established under the Drug Quality and Security Act of 2013 to address safety concerns in pharmaceutical compounding by enabling large-scale sterile drug production under US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) oversight. Despite regulatory intent, concerns persist regarding inspection rates and compliance with current good manufacturing practices (CGMP). OBJECTIVE: This study aims to investigate FDA oversight, through analysis of inspection activity, of 503B outsourcing facilities registered during the period between 2020 and early 2025. METHODS: This mixed-methods study analyzed FDA registration and inspection data from public databases for 48 503B outsourcing facilities registered from January 1, 2020 through April 30, 2025. Quantitative measures included inspection frequency, number of significant findings, and time to inspection. Qualitative thematic analysis was conducted on Form 483 and warning letters to identify recurring deficiencies. RESULTS: Of 48 newly registered 503B facilities, only 11 (22.9%) had been inspected, with an average 2.2-year delay from registration to inspection. All inspected facilities had at least 2 significant objectionable findings (mean = 6.2, SD = 3.2). Thematic analysis of 68 findings revealed 5 major domains of deficiency: quality control, personnel training, documentation, process validation, and product labeling. Frequent issues included inadequate sterility testing, poor environmental controls, unvalidated production processes, and deficient recordkeeping. CONCLUSIONS: The study reveals critical gaps in FDA oversight of 503B outsourcing facilities, characterized by delayed and infrequent inspections and widespread regulatory noncompliance. These deficiencies pose significant risks to patient safety, particularly in the production of sterile drugs. Immediate regulatory reforms, including adequate FDA funding to support increased inspection frequency, mandatory corrective actions, enhanced staff training, and greater transparency, are necessary to safeguard public health and ensure the integrity of compounded medications.
Insights from a Pilot Interprofessional Preceptor Development Program using the Habits of Preceptors Platform.
Pogge EK, Goodlet KJ, Raney EC … +2 more , Larson S, Davis LE
J Am Pharm Assoc (2003) · 2026 Jun · PMID 42235754 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Training under the guidance of preceptors is a foundational component of healthcare education. Despite this vital role, most practicing clinicians receive little formal preparation for teaching. Clinicians wh...
BACKGROUND: Training under the guidance of preceptors is a foundational component of healthcare education. Despite this vital role, most practicing clinicians receive little formal preparation for teaching. Clinicians who precept seek development opportunities that are pragmatic, expand networks, and are flexible to support work-life integration. However, availability of and access to such training is often hindered by cost, fragmentation, and lack of structured frameworks for self-reflection and application to practice. OBJECTIVE: To explore satisfaction and perceived professional impact associated with participation in the pilot offering of the Habits of Preceptors (HOP) Academy 101 Foundations Course for Clinician Educators. METHODS: The HOP Academy 101 Foundations Course was delivered as a six-month, asynchronous, interprofessional pilot program incorporating curated educational content mapped to the 11 habits of the HOP Framework with concurrent guided self-reflection and peer discussion activities. Following course completion, volunteers participated in semi-structured interviews.. RESULTS: Twenty-four interprofessional clinician educators were invited to participate in the pilot program. Of these, 18 engaged in at least one course activity and six participated in an interview. Interviewees reported overall high satisfaction with the program and highlighted the practical applicability of the readings, resources, and near peer engagement. Targeted areas of personal growth included feedback practices, professional identity as clinician educators, and leadership capacity. Suggested program improvements included streamlining access across the two-learning platform, shortening the program timeline, and increasing opportunities for peer and faculty interaction. CONCLUSION: Findings from this pilot suggest that structured, asynchronous preceptor development that incorporates peer dialogue, guided reflection, and individualized learning is valued by practicing clinicians. Participants reported self-perceived positive impact on precepting confidence and practices, as well as strengthening professional identity. This type of approach may address persistent gaps in traditional preceptor continuing education.
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