The New Year is a perfect time to take on projects and make the changes that will help your business thrive. Are you ready for 2014? Here are a few resolutions we’ve compiled to make 2014 your most profitable year yet.
See your front end with fresh eyes
Take an objective look at your pharmacy’s front end merchandise. Knowing what sells and what collects dust will allow you to make the most informed and profitable decisions going forward. If one product or brand has been effective, consider other products in that line. Also think about presentation. Are the displays in your pharmacy contributing to the appeal of your products, or making them look less attractive? If the displays aren’t helping you sell, it’s time to change them out.
Help advance the profession
On January 1, 2014, California pharmacists will receive official health care provider status thanks to a new law. The passing of this law recognizes the valuable services pharmacists provide. Keep the momentum going and contact your state legislators to propose a similar bill. Make it your goal in 2014 to continue to advance your profession in your home state.
Make your pharmacy a destination, not just a store
There are lots of simple ways to make your pharmacy a place people enjoy visiting. People feel comfortable in stores that are clean, well organized and inviting. Take a cue from retail experts and focus on pleasant lighting, dust- and dirt-free floors and surfaces, and appealing, up-to-date displays and products. Some nice seasonal touches include offering hot cocoa or tea to waiting customers, playing soothing music or offering a small treat to children.
Grow your business with new products and services
Become the “go-to” pharmacy for something (or multiple things), and let people know about it. If you already offer flu shots, try incorporating other vaccines, like those for Hepatitis and shingles. If you’re already counseling diabetes patients, consider providing educational classes or related products, like diabetic footwear. Already have lots of older or disabled patents? Maybe a delivery service could boost loyalty and bring in new business. By making your pharmacy known for a specific service, patients will start to seek you out for what you do best.
Start an adherence program
With the reimbursement structure gearing up to shift from a fee-for-service model to an outcomes-based model in the future, the time is now to start an adherence program. A program that notifies patients when their refills are due and ready at the pharmacy, coupled with synchronized refills, can significantly improve patient adherence. It also makes ordering inventory more efficient and predictable, provides more time to resolve insurance issues and reduces patient confusion. (Plus, it can boost your revenue.)
