Patient care is topic of pharmacists' letter to all 50 governors

The National Association of Chain Drug Stores (NACDS) has issued a letter to the governors of all 50 states calling for pharmacy patient care to be a top priority in new health care policies in 2017.
“As you engage with the incoming (President-elect Donald) Trump Administration and prepare for the upcoming 115th Congress and potential health care reforms, we ask that you consider the value of community pharmacy in your efforts to provide improved quality of care at lower overall health care costs,” the NACDS letter reads.
The NACDS cited a report by the National Governors Association that says there are opportunities for pharmacists to improve health care if their roles are expanded, allowing them to collaborate with physicians.
“Particularly with respect to health care markets and state Medicaid programs, policies that reduce local pharmacy access lead to poorer health outcomes, ultimately resulting in increased future health care costs," the letter continued. "We believe you should consider policy proposals that, at a minimum, ensure that beneficiary access to community pharmacies is protected. Moreover, as you consider options to improve overall health care delivery, we remind you that community pharmacies are fully equipped to provide better care at a lower cost and stand ready to assist.”