Evaluating Pharmacy Partnerships for Assisted Living

This guide discusses the critical evaluation of pharmacy vendors in the context of assisted living and memory care communities. It outlines the differences between skilled nursing facilities and assisted living environments, emphasizing the importance of selecting pharmacy partners that are specifically tailored to the unique needs of assisted living. The document details various factors that senior living leaders should consider when assessing pharmacy services, including the pharmacy's client base, packaging support for medication aides, integration with electronic medication administration records (eMAR), and the nature of clinical support provided. It also highlights the operational implications of choosing a pharmacy that is not specialized for assisted living, such as inefficiencies and inconsistencies in care delivery. The guide concludes by stressing that applying rigorous standards to pharmacy selection is essential for ensuring resident safety and operational efficiency in senior living communities.