Get up, stand up!
During last week’s Drug Store News Diabetes Leadership Forum, the entire audience took a moment to focus on prevention … and do something about it. According to the World Health Organization, physical inactivity and a sedentary lifestyle are estimated to cause about 27% of diabetes cases. And preliminary evidence has linked prolonged sitting with increased blood sugar – a risk factor for diabetes. So, what did we do? We stood up.
Prevention was among the topics we discussed during this annual DSN event. For the 11th year in a row I was afforded the privilege of guiding the discussion and moderating an outstanding panel of ten industry experts representing retailers, distributors, and suppliers. Unlike years past, we expanded our topic areas to consider other chronic conditions and their similarities to diabetes and the increasingly important role of the pharmacist and his/her team.
Here are several key takeaways shared during the event.
Technology trends. Decisions consumers make about their lifestyle, nutrition, and adherence to therapy can and should be influenced and supported by technology. Examples shared ranged from Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) to web- and mobile-based technologies to improve patient care and compliance.
Attention on prevention. Proactively guiding patient’s life choices and decisions is a big responsibility – a responsibility embraced by many of the panelists. Some retailers described their efforts to teach consumers how to cultivate healthier eating habits while fighting obesity and diabetes, while others were using in-store navigational tools to guide patient choices.
Patient support team. Addressing unique needs of family caregivers – those caring for a loved one – must be an area of focus for both suppliers and retailers. It was agreed that pharmacy was the only healthcare setting where a caregiver could literally just walk in, and see and talk with a healthcare professional on the spot.
Governmental pressure. The Affordable Care Act has put pressure on product availability and access – ensuring a range of value products is paramount. CMS’ Star Ratings have put a spotlight on outcomes management and MTM – pharmacies must seize this opportunity to engage with patients.
Retail clinic expansion. It became evident during the conversation that the role of clinics is definitely pointed in the direction of chronic care management. Not to replace but rather augment the activities of primary care physicians. With their convenient locations and accessible hours, this is simply logical.
Problem-solving. We must all strive to ask patients, “How can we solve your problem,” as opposed to, “How can we make our product better?” A holistic approach to care will undoubtedly be part of the solution.
The entire industry is at a tipping point as it relates to chronic condition management and the pharmacists’ role. Technology, increased outcomes management, and education will remain at the center for many years to come. Are you ready to get up, stand up, and stand out?
For more insights on Dave Wendland and how he can inspire your team, visit www.hamacher.com/dynamic-speaking-service/.