NACDS Nourish My Health sets new-year focus on crucial role of America’s pharmacies

ARLINGTON, VA – As January winds down and Americans work to turn resolutions into lasting routines, the National Association of Chain Drug Stores (NACDS) is spotlighting “Health Starts Here” — a new-year focus reinforcing the essential role pharmacies play in supporting the health and well-being of communities nationwide.

Through its Nourish My Health initiative, NACDS and participating member organizations are highlighting how pharmacies help people manage medications, stay up to date on recommended vaccinations, and get practical health guidance that fits into everyday life. With locations in communities across the country and hours that often extend into evenings and weekends, pharmacies make it easier for patients to take the next step in managing their health.

“Health doesn’t start in an emergency room or a hospital — it starts in the community,” said NACDS President and CEO Steven C. Anderson. “And for millions of Americans, that starting point is their local pharmacy. People want care that’s convenient, trusted, and close to home. Pharmacy teams deliver that — whether someone is coming in for a vaccine, help staying on track with a medication, or a straightforward conversation about a health goal.”

Across the country, pharmacies provide a broad range of services that improve health outcomes and strengthen communities, including:

• Preventive care and screenings, including vaccinations and routine health assessments that help identify risks earlier;
• Medication management and adherence support, helping patients use medicines safely, effectively, and affordably;
• Chronic disease support, helping patients manage conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and asthma;
• Nutrition and food access resources, including counseling and connections to community programs that address food insecurity; and
• Trusted, face-to-face care, delivered by health professionals who know their patients and communities.

With walk-in availability and locations embedded in neighborhoods nationwide, pharmacies are uniquely positioned to meet patients’ needs — particularly in rural and underserved areas where other healthcare options may be limited. In many communities, the local pharmacy is one of the few places where patients can get timely health support outside traditional office hours.

“Pharmacies are far more than a place to pick up a prescription — they’re a dependable front door to care,” Anderson added. “To keep that access strong, we need policies and payment models that better reflect the value pharmacy teams provide for patients each day.”

NACDS Nourish My Health’s “Health Starts Here” focus will carry throughout the year across communications and campaigns, highlighting real-world examples of how pharmacies support healthier lives — and underscoring the importance of preserving access to pharmacy care so it remains available when and where patients need it most.

To learn more about NACDS Nourish My Health and how pharmacies are advancing community health and well-being, visit www.nourishmyhealth.org.