The Importance of Community in Health Care

In a recent interview with Dermatology Times, Michael Rubio, PA-C, founder and medical director of Well Revolution, highlighted the challenges faced by independent pharmacies and the role telehealth can play in sustaining them after a fire devastated his own local independent pharmacy. As a Brooklyn-based healthcare provider, Rubio has been working closely with community pharmacies, including City Chemist, to improve patient access to care and streamline the prescription process.

The Struggles of Independent Pharmacies

Independent pharmacies across the US are closing at alarming rates, particularly in rural areas. Rubio said these pharmacies often serve as the only healthcare hubs in their communities, providing essential medications and health services. However, due to financial pressures from pharmacy benefit managers and insurance companies, many are unable to sustain their operations. When these pharmacies close, patients are forced to travel long distances to fill prescriptions, creating significant barriers to healthcare access.

Rubio emphasizes that independent pharmacists play a crucial role in their communities, yet they are often overlooked within the healthcare system. Without sufficient support, these pharmacies are disappearing, leaving many patients without reliable access to medications.

Telehealth as a Solution

Well Revolution has been actively working with independent pharmacies to rethink their approach to patient care. Traditionally, pharmacies wait for patients to bring in prescriptions. However, by integrating telehealth services, Rubio says Well Revolution has helped shift this dynamic—enabling providers to collaborate directly with pharmacists to expedite prescriptions and improve patient outcomes.

Through telehealth, patients can receive faster access to healthcare consultations, reducing wait times and ensuring they receive necessary medications without delays. This partnership between telehealth providers and independent pharmacies allows for a more efficient, patient-centered approach to care, especially for dermatology patients who may require quick treatment for skin conditions.

Strengthening Local Health Care Networks

Rubio advocates for greater collaboration between independent pharmacists and local healthcare providers. He encourages medical professionals to reach out to their local pharmacies and explore ways to work together. Many pharmacists, as small business owners, are deeply invested in their communities and open to innovative solutions that enhance patient care.

As health care continues to evolve, the integration of telehealth with independent pharmacies presents a promising avenue for maintaining local healthcare services. Rubio’s work underscores the importance of preserving these essential businesses, ensuring that patients continue to receive timely, accessible, and high-quality care.