States cite pharmacists as instruments for rural transformation: 5 notes

Becker's Healthcare January 9, 2026
Ella Jeffries

Pharmacists are emerging as key players in rural health redesign efforts, according to a Jan. 8 analysis from the American Pharmacists Association.

The report reviewed publicly available state applications submitted to CMS’ Rural Health Transformation Program. Thirty-four states referenced pharmacists or pharmacies in strategies related to access, workforce, payment and digital infrastructure.

Here are five notes from the summary:

1. Thirty-four states mentioned pharmacists or pharmacies in their plans.

Mentions ranged from clinical service delivery to policy reforms aimed at integrating pharmacy into rural care infrastructure.

2. Seventeen states proposed expanding pharmacists’ scope of practice.

Several states expressed interest in enabling pharmacists to provide services such as chronic disease management, preventive screenings...