Community pharmacies are uniquely positioned to help address non-medical drivers of health, and the need is evident in Texas. Over 20% of Texans are uninsured —compared to the US average of 10%— and Texas has the largest proportion of individuals under 65 without insurance in the country. Additionally, 14% of Texans face food insecurity, and there is a critical shortage of primary care and mental health providers in 98% and 97% of counties, respectively.

On the other hand, 90% of Americans live within 5 miles of a pharmacy, and patients visit pharmacies more than any other healthcare provider — sometimes as many as 35 times per year. There is also a growing trend where community pharmacies nationwide play a role in addressing access to healthcare through preventative and chronic care services, care management, and the integration of community health
workers as health equity specialists in the pharmacy.

Still, community pharmacies are an untapped healthcare destination currently addressing non-medical drivers of health. However, all pharmacies are not the same, and choosing the right pharmacy by evaluating the workforce, quality, and infrastructure creates greater opportunities for sustainable, high-quality, holistic patient care.