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Independent Pharmacies Garner Top Ratings from Consumer Reports Readers
Do these results suggest that pharmacists who see themselves as part of the local community act differently toward their customers?
In a recent news release, the National Community Pharmacists Association commented on a Consumer Reports article:
Alexandria, VA — April 5, 2011: Readers of Consumer Reports magazine score independent community pharmacies the highest based on overall satisfaction and service among all types of pharmacy providers. Independent pharmacies are competitive on pricing as well, according to the publication’s 2011 pharmacy survey.
Ninety-four percent of the 43,739 readers responding to the survey said they were highly satisfied with their experiences at independent pharmacies, based on categories including personal service, knowledge and speed in filling prescriptions. In addition, a survey conducted by the magazine of popular brand-name drug prices found independent pharmacies offered lower prices than traditional, national pharmacy.
So my question is—do these results suggest that pharmacists who see themselves as part of the local community, because they have an investment in that community, act differently towards their customers than other pharmacists? What do you think is the reason for these results?
Editor’s Note: Also see our Web exclusive on this topic.
