Drug Topics March 19, 2025
Jeffrey Goad, PharmD, MPH, president of the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases, reflects on the COVID-19 pandemic 5 years later.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, pharmacies underwent a transformation, rapidly expanding their services to meet unprecedented demand for vaccination and testing while facing significant challenges like staffing shortages and misinformation. Pharmacists emerged as trusted health care providers, leveraging their entire workforce—including technicians and student pharmacists—to administer vaccines, provide critical education, and maintain accessible health care services. The pandemic highlighted pharmacies’ adaptability, with many implementing hybrid appointment models and playing a crucial role in community health education. Looking forward, the experience has opened opportunities for expanded clinical services, increased recognition as essential healthcare providers, and the potential for more comprehensive patient care...