Healthcare is becoming more complex, especially as people live longer and develop chronic conditions. New treatments, like cell and gene therapies, are increasing, and medicines for conditions like obesity are becoming more common. This has led to a rise in specialty medications, often prescribed to patients managing multiple health issues. Many patients take several medications, and this number tends to increase with age. To tackle these challenges, healthcare stakeholders must work together to focus on patient needs. Community pharmacies are well-placed to help patients understand and manage their treatments. Anita Patel, Vice President of Pharmacy Services Development at Walgreens, explains, ‘We focus on the whole patient, making us a key partner for biopharma companies. We help patients stay on their medications through education and support, improving health outcomes.’ Community pharmacies are also playing a role in clinical trials. With their local presence and patient trust, they help make trials more accessible. For example, Walgreens partnered with AstraZeneca’s AIRE Mobile Unit, which uses buses to bring trials to communities. This partnership leverages Walgreens’ long-standing community trust to expand the reach of clinical trials. Health screenings are another way pharmacies support patients. Walgreens, for instance, educates patients and distributes at-home testing kits for conditions like colorectal cancer and kidney function. This approach has led to high completion rates for screenings. Pharmacies also help prevent care disruptions. When a drug shortage occurred, Walgreens coordinated with the manufacturer to monitor patient needs, optimize supply, and adjust prescriptions to avoid treatment interruptions. Affordability is another concern. Many patients struggle to pay for their medications. Community pharmacies can help connect patients to financial support programs. Walgreens, for example, helped many oncology patients achieve zero out-of-pocket costs for their medications. As healthcare becomes more complex, community pharmacies play a vital role in supporting patients. They help simplify care, improve understanding, and ensure patients can access and afford their treatments. Anthony Scatamacchia, Head of Biopharma Services Growth at Walgreens, notes, ‘Pharmacists have earned patients’ trust, enabling them to be effective educators and influencers in a complex healthcare world.’