Healthcare

Exploiting the potential of pharmacies

(Bild: Martin Hörmandinger)

Our healthcare system needs a change in mentality - away from a predominantly doctor-centered focus and towards a view of the "big picture" and the non-medical area. The need for change is great. And so is the additional care potential of pharmacies - from specialist expertise to physical and digital infrastructure. Pharmacies can close significant gaps in healthcare provision.

In Austria, more than 7,000 pharmacists personally ensure that people are supplied with medicines and a wide range of healthcare services on a daily basis. More than 1,450 public pharmacies, evenly distributed throughout the country, guarantee fair and unbureaucratic healthcare close to where people live. For 500,000 people every day. Around the clock. Without closing times due to vacation or illness.

Integration of pharmacies between the digital and outpatient contact points
The Austrian Chamber of Pharmacists believes that too little consideration was given to non-medical healthcare professions in the "digital before outpatient before inpatient" motto issued with the healthcare reform. The more than 1,450 pharmacies throughout Austria want to and can make an important contribution to the planned reorganization of patient flow management. Pharmacists already refer patients to doctors and hospitals when necessary.

In many cases, healthcare begins in the public pharmacy. They are the first point of contact for health and advice, as well as a competent guide to the healthcare system. The integration of pharmacies between the digital and outpatient contact points would be ideal. Patients who seek advice at the pharmacy around the corner can be sent on or referred to telemedicine platforms. The latter would be a great help for patients, especially during off-peak hours.

Thinking about telemedicine
In the view of the Austrian Chamber of Pharmacists, 99 plus one telemedicine position should be implemented and further pilot projects relating to telemedicine advice should be considered when 100 new cashier positions are advertised. In France, for example, there are booths in pharmacies where patients can contact a doctor virtually. If necessary, they can then issue an e-prescription and the patient can take their medication with them.