The Value of a Pharmacist With John Beckner

John Beckner, RPh, Senior Director of Strategic Initiatives at NCPA, discusses the value of a pharmacist today.

Alana Hippensteele: Hi, I'm speaking with John Beckner, the senior director of strategic initiatives at NCPA about the value of the pharmacists today.

John, what do you think the value of the pharmacists is?

John Beckner, RPh: I really appreciate that question. You know, I think pharmacists are certainly among the most accessible healthcare providers and, in a lot of cases, they're the first touch point for patient engagement in the healthcare system. Recent statistics have shown that 90% of the population is within five miles of a community pharmacy. In rural communities, and in communities where there may be a shortage of physicians, the pharmacist is really the face of health care and the one that provides the most immediate access to the health care system. Pharmacists continue to show value through their involvement in enhanced services networks across the country. They're working with physicians, they're working with payers to provide services that are impacting total cost of care, so the value of the pharmacists in today's healthcare system is continuing to be showcased.

Alana Hippensteele: Absolutely. Well, thank you so much for taking the time to speak with me today.

John Beckner: Thank you.