Brad Tice1, Charles R Phillips. 1. College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences, Drake University, Des Moines, Iowa 50311-4505, USA. brad.tice@drake.edu
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the implementation of a lipid testing service across an entire market of a large chain pharmacy. DESIGN: Observational study using a validated satisfaction scale. SETTING: Nine Osco Drug pharmacies in Des Moines, Iowa. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Number of patients choosing to participate in a fee-for-service lipid screening program, type of test chosen, effects of marketing on service volume, and patient satisfaction. RESULTS: A total of 159 screenings were performed in the 9 pharmacies. The majority of patients (79.7%) chose the more expensive fasting lipid profile, and service volume seemed to correspond to the number and intensity of marketing efforts. There was a trend toward increased patient satisfaction with the services represented by the Managing Therapy and Friendly Explanation dimensions addressed in the survey. CONCLUSION: Patients were willing to pay out-of-pocket for lipid screening. More efforts need to be devoted to marketing this service to create value for the customer and to establish it as a viable component of pharmacy business.
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the implementation of a lipid testing service across an entire market of a large chain pharmacy. DESIGN: Observational study using a validated satisfaction scale. SETTING: Nine Osco Drug pharmacies in Des Moines, Iowa. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Number of patients choosing to participate in a fee-for-service lipid screening program, type of test chosen, effects of marketing on service volume, and patient satisfaction. RESULTS: A total of 159 screenings were performed in the 9 pharmacies. The majority of patients (79.7%) chose the more expensive fasting lipid profile, and service volume seemed to correspond to the number and intensity of marketing efforts. There was a trend toward increased patient satisfaction with the services represented by the Managing Therapy and Friendly Explanation dimensions addressed in the survey. CONCLUSION:Patients were willing to pay out-of-pocket for lipid screening. More efforts need to be devoted to marketing this service to create value for the customer and to establish it as a viable component of pharmacy business.