Jason Murry, Senior Director, Healthcare:
Pharmacists currently lack provider status under federal law. This lack of recognition limits their ability to fully contribute to patient care, despite their extensive training in medication management and patient counseling. As clinicians, educators, and essential allies in patient care, pharmacists play a crucial role in improving health outcomes. Therefore, it is time to formally recognize pharmacists as providers, acknowledging their significant value in the healthcare landscape.
Growing trust in pharmacists as a source for expanded medical care speaks to the increased patient engagement that would result from them being granted provider status. A recent healthcare consumer survey conducted by Inmar Intelligence found that overall, 78% said, “yes,” they would be comfortable receiving additional assistance.
This strong support among potential patients highlights the evolving perception of pharmacists as key contributors to healthcare, moving well beyond their traditional roles.
Pharmacy organizations are actively advocating for recognition of pharmacists as providers under Medicare Part B of the Social Security Act. Achieving this status would allow pharmacists to receive reimbursement for providing additional, and needed, healthcare services. Adequate reimbursement would make it financially feasible for pharmacists to expand their offerings to include health screenings, managing chronic conditions, and medication therapy management.
As reported in Chain Drug Review, many states are enacting legislation enabling pharmacists to provide medical assistance. These legislative changes are crucial in expanding patient access to healthcare services, particularly in underserved areas where pharmacists may be the most accessible healthcare professionals.
By 2033, the U.S. will face a shortage of 54,100 to 139,000 doctors, according to the American Association of Medical Colleges (AAMC). This gap is particularly concerning in rural areas, where 20% of the population lives but only 10% of doctors practice, leading to significant healthcare shortages in these regions.
The recognition of pharmacists as healthcare providers is not just overdue but essential. With a looming physician shortage and increasing healthcare needs, especially in underserved rural areas, pharmacists are well-positioned to fill critical gaps in patient care. Their extensive training and growing trust among patients underscore their potential to expand healthcare access. Achieving provider status under federal law would enable pharmacists to offer more comprehensive services, thereby improving health outcomes and addressing the pressing challenges in the U.S. healthcare system.