Implementation and evaluation of a lipid screening program in a large chain pharmacy

Area of Science:

• Pharmacy Practice
• Health Services Research
• Clinical Chemistry

Background:

• Community pharmacies are increasingly offering point-of-care testing services.
• Lipid testing is a crucial component of cardiovascular disease risk assessment.
• Evaluating the business viability of new pharmacy services is essential.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the implementation and patient uptake of a fee-for-service lipid testing program in a large pharmacy chain.
• To determine patient preferences for lipid testing options.
• To evaluate the impact of marketing on service utilization and patient satisfaction.

Main Methods:

• An observational study was conducted across nine Osco Drug pharmacies in Des Moines, Iowa.
• Data collected included patient participation numbers, test type selection, marketing influence, and patient satisfaction using a validated scale.
• Analysis focused on service volume, test preference, and satisfaction metrics.

Main Results:

• 159 lipid screenings were performed, with 79.7% of patients opting for the more expensive fasting lipid profile.
• Service volume appeared to correlate positively with the intensity and frequency of marketing initiatives.
• A positive trend in patient satisfaction was observed, particularly concerning therapy management and explanation clarity.

Conclusions:

• Patients demonstrated a willingness to pay out-of-pocket for lipid screening services offered by pharmacies.
• Enhanced marketing strategies are necessary to maximize customer value and integrate lipid testing as a sustainable pharmacy business model.
• Pharmacy-based lipid testing shows potential as a valuable healthcare service.