Richard Stefanacci, DO, Defines the Pharmacist's Role in New Care Delivery Models

Richard Stefanacci, DO, chief medical officer, The Access Group, said that it is necessary for retail pharmacists to break out of their silo. Dr Stefanacci noted that retail pharmacists are being utilized within practices and stepping out of their normal roles. “What we are seeing is, the retail walls are breaking down and coming into our offices,” said Dr Stefanacci. "I think the whole-team approach requires having a pharmacist. Again, to make sure that I as a prescriber am writing the right medication, and that my patients understand how to take it so they can play a critical role in adherence.” As part of a healthcare team, pharmacists will play a key role in new care models such as Accountable Care Organizations and patient-centered medical homes.