
January 28, 2025
Your local pharmacy has likely become a regular stop on your errands run–but in what capacity and how often? According to a recent survey* conducted by Rite Aid, respondents from Pennsylvania were more likely to visit their pharmacy at least once a month (47%) compared to respondents in other states (35%). But are you utilizing your pharmacist to their fullest capabilities?
The bad news is, you’re probably not. The good news is, you’re not alone. The survey revealed many respondents remain unaware of a pharmacist’s full suite of services, with nearly three-quarters believing that a pharmacist’s primary role is to dispense medications.
It’s time to push past that perception. Pharmacists can do so much more—from providing guidance on over-the-counter products to one-on-one health consultations—and Rite Aid is sharing five surprising ways its pharmacists support your health beyond the perceived traditional services.
Many consumers might not be taking full advantage of their pharmacies for
vaccinations, particularly younger generations. According to Rite Aid’s
survey, older generation respondents have visited their local pharmacist for
immunizations more than younger generations.
Avoid lengthy appointment wait times at primary care offices and consider
visiting your local pharmacy for flu shots, COVID-19 vaccines, shingles
vaccines, and more. Your pharmacist can provide immunization recommendations
based on your age, pre-existing conditions and health concerns. Pharmacies
are a convenient solution for busy schedules, and you can even schedule an
appointment online at Rite Aid.
With the rise of social media wellness trends, and an increasing number of supplements on the market, it can be easy to overload your medicine cabinet. Rite Aid pharmacists can review your medication and supplement regimen to help ensure it’s safe and effective, identifying potential drug interactions.
According to the survey, more than two-thirds of respondents (68%) report taking more than one medication or supplement, but only 46% report having discussed potential interactions with their pharmacist. Don’t leave your health to chance— find a pharmacist near you to discuss the supplements, medications or vaccinations in your personal health routine.
Worried about your blood pressure? Your pharmacist can help you monitor it and offer management tips. Concerned about your sexual health? Pharmacists can administer HPV vaccines and offer birth control recommendations. Looking for relief from menopause symptoms? Pharmacists are available to counsel women on symptom management. Taking advantage of a quick consultation with a pharmacist could make all the difference in managing your health.
The aisles can feel overwhelming when trying to find the right product to help manage your symptoms. Don’t guess what you need based on what you Googled. Pharmacists can advise on which pain reliever is best for that aching knee or help you find the appropriate remedy to subside that persistent cough. Save time and unnecessary frustration by leaning on their expertise.
Pharmacists aren’t just there for when you’re sick—they’re also great resources for general wellness advice and proactive care. From recommending the right sleep aids to help improve your sleep quality to suggesting ways to help boost your immunity during the winter months, consider your pharmacist a trusted partner in your health journey to help keep you feeling your best year-round.
The next time you pick up your prescription, take a moment to ask your pharmacist how else they can help and get the personalized guidance you need to help you and your family stay healthy.
*Disclaimer: This random double-opt-in survey of 2,000 American adults was commissioned by Rite Aid between December 9, 2024 and December 10, 2024 and conducted by market research and insights agency Opinium.