Medication access: Policy and practice opportunities for pharmacists

Abstract

Medication access is critical to achieving optimal patient outcomes. The 2020 Task Force on Medication Access was charged with developing an ACCP white paper on improving medication access that addresses barriers such as cost, health disparities, and utilization management practices. This white paper outlines major barriers to medication access and provides pharmacists and professional organizations with policy and practice recommendations to help reduce barriers, enhance medication access, and fulfill the goal of optimal patient outcomes.

Social Determinants of Health in People Living with Psychiatric Disorders: The Role of Pharmacists

“…6 Pharmacists have long been aware of challenges that patients often face in accessing prescription medications, including medication cost, lack of or limited insurance coverage, or distance from a pharmacy. 7 Pharmacists are trained in providing direct patient care for people living with chronic conditions, including psychiatric disorders, by identifying and resolving medication therapy problems (MTPs). 8 With more pharmacists practicing in team-based medical practices, additional SDOH that impact or intersect with optimal medication use, beyond access to medications, have emerged.…”