Making the Treatment Journey More Accessible, from Education to Adherence

Pharmacies are becoming hubs for accessible health care, supporting consumers living with chronic conditions on their journey from education to treatment adherence.

Whether through in-store or virtual consultations, pharmacists are increasingly serving a critical role as trusted, accessible healthcare providers who help drive better health outcomes.

Of course, consumers living with chronic conditions often face barriers to treatment before they even set foot in a pharmacy — which is why the digital health journey is evolving to help them overcome barriers and reach this effective, accessible point of care.

At every point in this journey, from digital platforms to pharmacies, marketers have an important role in improving accessibility for more consumers.

Pharmacists Serve as a Trusted, Accessible Source of Care

Whether through brick-and-mortar or online pharmacies, pharmacists have become indispensable healthcare allies. They are both easily accessible and highly trusted, making it easier for consumers to get personalized, immediate support on their medications, dosage, and potential side effects.

• Nearly one-third of consumers living with chronic conditions consult with pharmacists about their medications.

• Over two-thirds express high satisfaction with in-person consultations.

Digital pharmacy interactions are also gaining traction:

• About half of consumers living with chronic conditions are satisfied with online pharmacy experiences.

• 42% say they would be more likely to use online pharmacies if they had 24/7 access to pharmacists via chat, phone, or video.

Pharmacies are already familiar touchpoints in consumers’ lives. About 25% of consumers fill prescriptions every month, and 36% every three months, providing regular opportunities for consumers to access health guidance. That being said, many face hurdles even before reaching these valuable points of care.

Understanding and Overcoming Pre-Pharmacy Barriers

Most consumers living with chronic conditions actively seek information about their prescriptions before they step foot in a pharmacy. In fact, 89% of consumers actively search for prescription information.

At the same time, consumers face obstacles such as cost concerns and complex health system logistics, which can make it challenging for them to move from research to action.

• 29% express concerns about the affordability of their medications.

• 27% struggle with coordinating communication among doctors, pharmacies, and insurance providers.

This is where digital health solutions can help bridge the gap, offering consumers a smoother journey from learning about treatments to actually accessing them.

How Digital Health Tools are Revolutionizing Access to Care

Digital solutions, from health information platforms to online pharmacies, are transforming healthcare accessibility and building a more integrated health journey.

Today’s consumers are increasingly interested in these tools, which include:

• Prescription discount programs: 30% of consumers who are interested in registered health experiences would sign up for cost-saving programs.

• Price comparison tools: 44% want to compare prescription prices online so they can make informed decisions.

• One-stop-shop solutions: 38% are interested in integrated digital platforms that manage everything from insurance verification and payment to medication delivery.

• Online pharmacies: Four in ten consumers express interest in using online pharmacies. These are a crucial option for those with mobility issues or those living in areas where healthcare access is limited.

Additionally, pharmacy locator tools are proving highly effective in improving access. A recent test of Healthline Media’s pharmacy locator feature showed the module drove 95% more in-store visits after exposure, meaning more people were able to find the next steps they needed.

Creating Accessible Paths to Better Health Outcomes

Today’s digital health journeys and pharmacy experiences are evolving to meet consumers where they are, addressing barriers like cost concerns, fragmented care, and the need for trustworthy guidance.

Through personalized, timely communication and digital health tools, marketers have the opportunity to support consumers with resources that prepare them for treatment decisions and simplify their path to care.

Ultimately, empowering consumers with actionable resources, cost-saving options — and seamless access to pharmacists — has the potential to drive greater health engagement and outcomes.

Partner with Healthline Media to connect consumers with the resources, guidance, and digital tools they need for a seamless treatment journey. Reach out to talk with our team.