Being a pharmacist was a wonderful job, one I’ve missed doing since retiring many years ago. I didn’t just fill prescriptions, I got to know the families I served, and they got to know me and the others I worked with as well. Throughout this pandemic I have thought a great deal about those families I helped over the years and think how wonderful it would be for everyone if the COVID-19 vaccine were available for distribution at our local pharmacies.

These local providers have the trust of their communities and they’ll help to close access gaps, especially for elder Americans and those in rural areas. Pharmacies also have longstanding relationships with the companies that are working to deliver the COVID-19 vaccines – the healthcare distributors.

Distributors have long supported the pharmacy community in its dedication to serving patients. Delivering everything from over-the-counter medications and every day health products to the most complex pharmaceuticals. Yet, few people know they exist. It’s kind of amazing when you think about it. Such an important aspect of our healthcare system and hardly anyone thinks about it because they work behind the scenes and are so good at what they do.

The relationship between distributors and pharmacies will be critical to vaccinating our population, and I hope that health officials and lawmakers will utilize their expertise.