Independent pharmacies are already in communities where mothers need care most.
A growing number of mothers live in maternity care deserts, communities with limited or no access to obstetric care. In many of these places, the independent community pharmacy is still open and still trusted. Pharmacists are already equipped to support mothers before and after birth, from blood pressure monitoring that can help catch early signs of preeclampsia to medication management and timely referrals to physicians. The NCPA Foundation’s work is to show, through patient care and data, that independent pharmacies are a viable way to ensure more mothers have access to prenatal and postpartum care.
This work is growing. We are building partnerships and programs in this area now. Reach out to receive updates or participate: ncpaf@ncpafoundation.org.
Our Focus
- Demonstrating impact through data. Documenting the care pharmacists provide to pregnant and postpartum patients so health systems, payers, and community partners can see the results.
- Catching complications early. Blood pressure screening and follow-up that can help identify preeclampsia and other hypertensive conditions of pregnancy and the postpartum period, with referral to a physician when needed.
- Rural care teams. Bringing together academic medical centers, family medicine residency programs, and independent pharmacies to close gaps in rural maternal care.
- Making participation simple. The Foundation works hard to ensure that cost and administrative burden do not keep pharmacies from taking part.
For Pharmacies
Interested in participating in future maternal health programs? Email ncpaf@ncpafoundation.org.
Funders and Partners
We welcome conversations with health systems, academic partners, and funders committed to improving maternal health in rural and underserved communities. Contact Us.
