Pharmacy-Affiliated Clinics Essential for Primary Care

Q: What are the main services ANAFARMEX offers to its members, and how is the organization impacting Mexico’s pharmacy sector?

A: ANAFARMEX has been established for almost 40 years and works with over 10,000 pharmacies in the private sector, but our members also include clinics, hospitals, and distributors, all of which benefit from the various services we offer. Our network comprises traditional pharmacies, chain pharmacies, and those entering the e-commerce segment. The association is essential for consumers who require timely access to medications to ensure adherence to their treatments. Medicine supply is a critical aspect of the healthcare system. 

Q: What should be the main priorities on the agenda of Mexico’s next administration?

A: The authorities should not ignore the importance of Pharmacy-Affiliated Clinics (CAF), which are essential as they provide an initial diagnosis and can refer patients to different levels of healthcare as necessary. Primary care clinics can support campaigns for healthy eating, exercise, and overall wellness, helping to prevent conditions like diabetes and obesity. These clinics are allies to the public health sector and help by promoting these fundamental principles. They perform 10 million monthly consultations. The doctors working in these clinics also work with IMSS, ISSSTE, and other public institutions. CAFs bridge the gap between the private and public healthcare sectors, creating an opportunity for clinical information to be shared seamlessly. This digital health interoperability could greatly benefit patients. It would enhance medication supply and ensure patients receive timely care across different healthcare settings, reducing wait times for treatments like cancer care and improving medication availability.

ANAFARMEX, which works with over 18,000 CAFs out of the 43,000 in the country, is ready to support this technological integration. We have agreements that facilitate interoperability across various healthcare ecosystems. For example, a prescription from a private hospital, whether digital or physical, can be filled at a participating pharmacy. We are committed to advancing this integration and improving healthcare delivery for all.

Q: What fundamental aspects should be considered when discussing interoperability?

A: It is essential for all platforms to be certified. Authorities must ensure these service providers comply with privacy notifications. Patient information is private and should not be used for commercial purposes. This information belongs to patients and should not be exploited in commercial markets. Privacy notifications must be prominently displayed and should be the first thing users see on any platform or service provider's site. It is the responsibility of the consumer, client, or patient to review these privacy notices diligently. Cybersecurity is also a concern. 

Q: How can traditional pharmacies remain competitive against e-pharmacies?

A: The purchase of medications requires security and trust. In physical establishments, by presenting a prescription at the counter, the customer is seeking validation from the pharmacist. This face-to-face interaction at traditional pharmacy counters is not disappearing; it is becoming stronger. However, customers are increasingly adopting new ways to purchase and obtain medications. For example, during extremely warm weather, delivery services become more popular as people prefer to stay home and have their medications delivered. This trend is part of the evolving commercialization and acceptance of new purchasing methods.

Despite this shift, the traditional pharmacy counter remains essential. We are witnessing the coexistence and integration of various commercial models. Our constant dialog with pharmacies and new business ventures allows us to support these developments. Through platforms like asoseiaenfarmacias.com, we offer guidance to new entrepreneurs. After the pandemic, we have assisted in the regulatory processes for over 400 new pharmacies, helping them obtain the necessary permits.

Q: How has ANAFARMEX evolved over the years to adapt to technological advances and changing market demands?

A: For generations, ANAFARMEX has been at the forefront of the industry, managing numerous national pharmacies and businesses. We recognize the importance of the digital landscape and are actively preparing for it, as access to technology has become more affordable and easier to implement. Previously, automating a pharmacy required significant investments, often exceeding MX$1 million (US$56,600) for software, ERP, and CRM systems. Through cloud solutions, it is now possible to efficiently manage information and enhance processes for traditional pharmacies at lower costs. Pharmacies can now access real-time information on inventory and medication demand within their postal codes. Technological advances have also enabled pharmacies to offer healthcare services without necessarily having an on-site clinic. This is crucial for pharmacies that may not want to invest in an attached clinic; they can provide services through online consultations.

The role of the pharmacy as a healthcare center is becoming increasingly larger. Many corporations are innovating and exploring new models, breaking down traditional barriers. For example, the acceptance of digital prescriptions is growing. Pharmacies, including traditional locations, are adapting to this change and are now able to fulfill digital prescriptions.

Mexico’s Pharmacy Association (ANAFARMEX) represents close to 15,000 pharmacies across the country. It is composed mainly of small and medium pharmacies, although it also represents big regional chains.