By Angela Murray, Vice President, Sales Operations:
In the world of pharmacy, vaccines aren’t just public health tools — they’re a business lifeline. Immunization services bring in revenue through administration fees, increased foot traffic, and the sale of related products. For many pharmacies, especially independents and small chains, vaccinations are a critical income stream. But as this flu season shapes up to be the worst in 15 years, the demand for accessible, convenient immunization services and public health expertise has never been more urgent.
The Impact of a Severe Flu Season
This year’s flu season is already straining the healthcare system, leading to increased hospitalizations and a higher burden on emergency departments. Pharmacies, as a frontline resource, can alleviate some of this pressure by expanding their role in vaccination and preventive care. With 90% of Americans living within five miles of a pharmacy, these facilities are uniquely positioned to increase access to essential healthcare services. Yet, outdated regulations and scope-of-practice limitations continue to hinder their ability to meet rising patient needs.
Pharmacies played a critical role during the COVID-19 pandemic, demonstrating their ability to provide widespread immunization services. However, with the ongoing shortage of primary care providers—expected to rise to 86,000 by 2036—pharmacists must be empowered to take on a larger role in vaccine administration and preventive care. When patients struggle to get an appointment with their primary care provider, pharmacies are often the most accessible healthcare resource available.
The Need to Expand Pharmacist Scope of Practice
Pharmacists are highly trained healthcare professionals capable of administering vaccines, providing medication counseling, and delivering preventative care services. However, restrictive policies in some states limit their ability to fully serve their communities. With the growing provider shortage and an overburdened healthcare system, expanding pharmacists' scope of practice isn’t just a convenience—it’s a necessity.
Legislators and healthcare leaders must recognize that pharmacists are well-positioned to bridge gaps in care. Allowing them to administer a broader range of vaccines without unnecessary restrictions can improve public health outcomes and ease strain on primary care providers. This includes “test and treat” services for common conditions like flu and strep throat—an approach already proving successful in countries like Canada. For example, a positive flu test at the pharmacy could result in a timely Tamiflu prescription, or a positive strep test could lead to appropriate antibiotic treatment, helping patients avoid unnecessary visits to urgent care or emergency rooms. Expanding these capabilities in the U.S. would not only improve care access but also alleviate pressure on overburdened healthcare settings.
A well-informed patient is more likely to get vaccinated and prioritize preventive care. Pharmacies can integrate vaccination awareness into their workflows by training staff to address common questions, using in-store messaging, and leveraging digital tools like text reminders and online scheduling to encourage uptake.
By collaborating with hospitals, local health departments, and primary care providers, pharmacies can play a crucial role in large-scale immunization efforts, ensuring more patients receive timely vaccinations.
Looking Ahead
With the worst flu season in recent history upon us, now is the time to act—and pharmacies are healthcare’s most accessible front line. Expanding the role of pharmacists in frontline healthcare services will not only help combat the immediate crisis but also strengthen their role in clinical services and long-term public health efforts. As provider shortages continue to grow, pharmacies must be equipped with the tools and authority to meet rising patient needs. Strengthening their role in vaccination and clinical care is not just about business—it’s about ensuring communities have access to critical healthcare services when they need them most.