The Unsung Heroes of Healthcare: "Community pharmacists are maybe the most trusted and most accessible health care provider. They're unsung heroes in our communities but rich with knowledge." - Dr. Taylor Reed
We shine a spotlight on a vital resource in Central Ohio: the Charitable Pharmacy of Central Ohio.
For 15 years, this nonprofit has been dedicated to providing free, life-saving prescription medications to those who can’t afford them.
Executive Director Dr. Taylor Reed joins the conversation to share his unique career path, the inspiring origin story of the charitable pharmacy, and how the organization serves the community. Especially older adults and those with chronic health needs.
We’ll explore the challenges and partnerships that make this work possible, recent changes in Ohio law that allow even more donated medications to reach those in need, and how the pharmacy works hand-in-hand with patients, healthcare providers, and other social service organizations to address the full spectrum of patient wellness.
If you or someone you know is struggling with medication costs, or if you’re interested in how you can help, this episode is packed with insights, resources, and ways to get involved.
Here are 3 key takeaways for healthcare and community professionals:
The Charitable Pharmacy was born from a unique Columbus-style public-private partnership that included city, county, all four major health systems, faith organizations, and business leaders. This cross-sector approach catalyzed innovative and lasting solutions for medication access in our region.
Serving over 1,600 individuals annually, the pharmacy provides not just free medication but a holistic support model. Patients often face multiple chronic conditions, and pharmacists deliver ongoing education, coaching, and direct connections to broader health and social services.
From state law changes enabling medication donations to partnerships with organizations like the Mid-Ohio Food Collective, the Charitable Pharmacy is addressing the social drivers of health, ensuring patients have food, housing, and transportation, not just medication.
If you like this episode, please let us know. We appreciate the feed back, and your support of offset costs of producing the podcast!
Moments
00:00 Pharmacist's Career Journey
05:18 Launch of a Charitable Pharmacy
08:41 Complex Pharmacy Supply Chain Explained
09:43 Recycling Unused Medicine Program
13:04 Supporting Asset-Limited Employed Individuals
17:27 Collaborative Healthcare Connections Ohio
22:02 Community Support Through One Door
24:33 Addressing Health via Nutrition Access
29:31 Expanding Health Care Capacity
33:28 Community Pharmacy & Pharmacist Awareness
We would love to hear from you.
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Email us at hello@lookingforwardourway.com.
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