In our 6th episode of the PharmacyNow podcast, our host Scott Vondeylen sits down with Jonathan Marquess PharmD, owner of multiple community pharmacies throughout the state of Georgia, to discuss the the logistics of hosting a COVID-19 testing clinic within the pharmacy, the criticality of flu shots in 2020, and the future of pharmacy following the pandemic.

Read below for our top 3 takeaways:

1. Hosting a COVID-19 testing clinic

Dr. Marquess knew immediately that he wanted to participate in COVID-19 testing in partnership with the McKesson Corporation, a global leader in healthcare technology and retail pharmacy.

Over a span of three weeks, Dr. Marquess’ pharmacies completed over 900 tests at two separate locations. Although there was initial hesitation from his staff, appropriate practices and procedures ensured the safety of both patients and caregivers. Dr. Marquess’ pharmacies even supported self-testing, wherein patients would administer test collection within their own vehicles.

Following specimen collection at the pharmacy, all aspects of testing results were managed by a lab corporation, including the delivery of outcomes to patients. Dr. Marquess believes COVID-19 testing is an important opportunity for pharmacists to connect with their community and to be more involved in the health of their patients.

2. Don’t miss your (flu) shot!

Dr. Marquess believes this is a critical year for flu vaccinations. Most notably, Dr. Marquess shares that he believes it is essential for every patient to be immunized so that healthcare personnel can properly distinguish between Influenza and COVID-19. This year carries great potential for effective vaccinations, which means pharmacies need to be prepared now.

In fact, Dr. Marquess has already ordered his pharmacies’ vaccine for this year’s flu season, and is planning to begin immunizing by August. With COVID-19 testing (both PCR and antibody) as well as vaccine administration (flu, and eventually COVID-19), Dr. Marquess believes that there is incredible opportunity for pharmacists to serve their communities by keeping patients both engaged and safe.

3. Things to focus on post-pandemic

Due to the onset of operational challenges posed during 2020, Dr. Marquess believes that pharmacists need to hit the reset button to begin reevaluating their pharmacy workflow and services. It is important as ever to focus on adherence measures, medication synchronization, and the improvement of the pharmacy’s bottom line. It is time for pharmacists to get creative on how they can best serve their community – to not only survive, but to thrive.

Links to learn more about Jonathan Marquess:

Jonathan's Twitter

Jonathan's LinkedIn

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