One of the biggest stories of pharmacy for 2021 was the launch of Amazon’s pharmacy. With no additional cost for Prime members, free mail to home prescriptions and a free discount card designed for the underinsured, uninsured and patients with high deductible plans, Amazon’s pharmacy has certainly been a market disrupter.
Some ways to combat Amazon: Independent pharmacies have an advantage, they are part of their communities. They get to know their patients and customers. Retail independent pharmacy isn’t about just filling prescriptions anymore. It’s about becoming a healthcare destination where others lack. Take advantage of additional revenue streams and services. For example:
- Invest in immunization delivery as differentiators
- COVID, flu, pneumonia, travel, and others
- Pursue point of care diagnostics (take advantage of expedited approval)
- COVID, flu, strep
- Incorporate in person and mail delivery by partnering with USPS or other carriers.
- Explore:
- Contactless prepaidvendor
- Greater mobile platform integration
- Compliance packaging options
- 24/7 vendor service or call center
- Bundled discount card with telemedicine and other service offering
If you need more help in finding ways to compete against Amazon or other pharmacies, make sure to contact your local VMC rep, who can help you add tools to your pharmacy arsenal.
