11:15am - 11:30am (CDT) | 5089.0 - Preserving pharmacy access through policy: Developing a critical access pharmacy framework in Oregon

Session: Pharmacy Policy, Economics, Quality and Advocacy

Program: Pharmacy

Presenter: Kyle Hampson, PharmD, BCNSP, BCPPS, CNSC, FASPEN

Abstract

Introduction

Access to community pharmacies is vital to the public health infrastructure, yet pharmacy closures have become commonplace. Pharmacy closures are more likely to impact low-income, urban areas and rural communities, reducing access to medications and healthcare services in vulnerable populations. A critical access pharmacy (CAP) program may prevent closures by increasing reimbursement for pharmacies in these communities. In Oregon, a pharmacy is considered a CAP if it is 10+ miles away from another pharmacy. We revised this framework to be evidence-informed, reproducible, and include social determinants of health and health inequities.

Methods

Community pharmacies in Oregon were grouped by their location (frontier, rural, or urban) and geolocated to determine their respective census tract, census tract poverty status, availability of public transportation, and proximity from other pharmacies. Data was analyzed and criteria for CAP qualification were developed. Feedback from internal and external stakeholders was obtained through a Rules Advisory Committee (RAC) meeting.

Findings

592 pharmacies were screened: 398 were excluded due to non-Oregon based ownership and 46 pharmacies were excluded because they were not public-facing. 148 pharmacies underwent assessment: 10 in frontier counties, 66 in rural zip codes, and 72 in urban zip codes. Of three options, the RAC selected one criteria for CAP designation, expanding the number of CAPs in Oregon from 21 to 53.

Conclusions

Rule changes were discussed and will undergo a public comment period before state rules are adjusted. This framework can be replicated in other states developing a CAP program to preserve pharmacy access.