Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs) are senior living communities that offer a range of living options, from independent living to assisted living to skilled nursing care. These communities provide a continuum of care that allows residents to age in place and receive the care and support they need as their needs change. For pharmacists looking to open a new pharmacy, a CCRC can offer a range of benefits.
First, CCRCs typically have a high concentration of older adults who require medication management services. This creates a large potential customer base for a pharmacy located within the CCRC. Additionally, because CCRCs offer a continuum of care, residents are likely to require ongoing medication management services, providing a steady stream of business for the pharmacy.
Second, because CCRCs are often located in suburban or rural areas, they may be underserved by pharmacies. This creates an opportunity for a pharmacy to fill a gap in the market and provide much-needed services to the community. Moreover, because CCRCs are often self-contained communities, residents may prefer to use a pharmacy located within the community rather than traveling to a pharmacy located outside the CCRC.
Third, CCRCs often offer a range of health and wellness services, such as fitness centers and physical therapy services. This creates an opportunity for a pharmacy to offer complementary services, such as medication therapy management and medication education, to help residents manage their health more effectively.
Fourth, CCRCs often have a high level of staff involvement in resident care. This creates an opportunity for a pharmacy to build relationships with staff members, who can then refer residents to the pharmacy for their medication needs. Additionally, staff members may require medications for their own health needs, creating another potential customer base for the pharmacy.
Finally, CCRCs often have a strong sense of community and may prioritize working with local businesses. By opening a pharmacy within a CCRC, pharmacists can become an integral part of the community and build strong relationships with residents, staff members, and other local businesses.
In conclusion, opening a pharmacy within a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) can offer a range of benefits for pharmacists looking to start a new business. From a steady customer base to complementary health services to a strong sense of community, CCRCs can provide a supportive environment for a pharmacy to thrive. As the population ages and the demand for senior care services grows, CCRCs are likely to become an increasingly important market for pharmacists looking to provide essential healthcare services to older adults.
