Once again, it’s what we all seem to say at the beginning of every month—it’s August already!? July flew by here at the pharmacy. Early in the month, I traveled to Washington D.C. for an annual independent pharmacy trade show. The first time it’s been held in person since 2019. No surprise there!

The focus of this year’s conference was the experience of pharmacies throughout the pandemic. Retail pharmacies were one of the leading providers of the COVID-19 vaccine. Many pharmacies, Oswald’s included, also got involved in point-of-care testing. As pharmacists are one of the country’s most accessible health care professionals, they played a prominent role in our nation’s response to COVID-19. Our industry partners want to make sure we keep up the good work, and that our patients know all that we offer.

The trade show also celebrated the FDA’s decision to allow pharmacists to prescribe Paxlovid (the anti-viral COVID-19 pill from Pfizer). Another notch in the belt for pharmacists! Between vaccines, point-of-care testing, and prescriber status for Paxlovid, pharmacies continue to remind their communities how essential their role in healthcare can be.

Vaccines at Oswald’s Pharmacy

From my grandfather administering the Polio vaccine to Naperville residents in 1964 to continuing first, second, and booster doses of the COVID-19 vaccine today, we’re proud to continue offering our community the highest level of care. We’re looking forward to expanding our point-of-care testing options and continue offering a wide array of vaccines to our patients. Soon, we’ll offer a physician telehealth program for fast and convenient prescriptions. From appointment to meds in less than 30 minutes!

On the final night of the conference, Kool & the Gang played for the attendees. Of course, they closed their set with the 1980 hit “Celebration”. There was much to celebrate for independent pharmacies this year! ℞