Elevating Patient Health with ScriptPro’s Pharmacy Solutions
Transforming Patient Care for Underserved Communities
For nearly 50 years, the DBA KCCARE Health Center has served as a healthcare lifeline for Kansas City’s most vulnerable populations. As a private, nonprofit, and Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) organization, it offers a comprehensive range of services, including primary care, HIV care, dental services, behavioral health support, and an in-house pharmacy. The Health Center serves over 21,797 patients across four locations and two mobile units, addressing the needs of underserved and uninsured communities. An important development in DBA KCCARE’s service offerings came in 2015 when the Health Center recognized the need to integrate pharmacy services into its care model. They made the strategic decision to establish an in-house pharmacy to better serve its patient population. To bring this vision to life, the Health Center brought on Kamile Johnson, PharmD, Vice President of Pharmacy Services.
“When the Health Center approached me, they understood that having a Pharmacy Services Program was essential to the continuity of care for our patients,” said Dr. Johnson. “Many of our patients can’t easily access or afford prescriptions from outside pharmacies. By offering medications in-house we could make a real difference.”
The timing was ideal, as DBA KCCARE had recently earned FQHC status, qualifying them for the 340B Drug Pricing Program, which helps reduce medication costs for eligible patients. With this program in place, Dr. Johnson detailed the requirements for launching the outpatient pharmacy. By March 2016, the Health Center received its pharmacy license, and in September, the pharmacy officially opened its doors.
Expanding Pharmacy Services with 340B Program
“The 340B program has been a game changer for us,” said Dr. Johnson. “The savings we generate go directly back into the Health Center, which has allowed us to hire additional staff and offer expanded pharmacy services, such as vaccines. We’re also planning to extend our hours into evenings and weekends to increase access to care when our patients need it the most. We’re even exploring options for delivery services and adding more specialty care.”
With pharmacy services integrated into the Health Center’s broader care model, prescription adherence improved. “Having our pharmacy in-house gives us access to our patients’ health records, enabling us to closely track outcomes and ensure compliance with treatment plans,” said Dr. Johnson. “As a FQHC organization and
a patient-centered medical home, we already track key health metrics like hypertension and diabetes. I’m eager to see how the addition of our Pharmacy Services Plan will positively impact our patients’ heath over time.”
The DBA KCCARE Health Center’s patient base is diverse, including the uninsured to the under-insured, such as small business owners and hourly wage earners, as well as those fully insured through private companies. The pharmacy also assists with patient co-pays via a Medication Assistance Fund, supported by donations from local community members and companies.
“100%. ABSOLUTELY. I WOULD DO IT AGAIN, AND I WOULD DO IT WITH SCRIPTPRO.”
– Kamile Johnson, PharmD, Vice President of Pharmacy Services
Growth Leads To New Pharmacy Space
By 2022, the demand for DBA KCCARE’s pharmacy services outpaced the physical space available. Longer wait times and cramped conditions prompted Dr. Johnson and her team to explore expansion opportunities. A larger space adjacent to the current pharmacy became available, but the complexity of managing multiple vendors created challenges.
That’s when DBA KCCARE turned to ScriptPro, a trusted partner in pharmacy automation, to manage the expansion. “Juggling multiple vendors is a daunting task,” Dr. Johnson explains. “ScriptPro made everything easier by coordinating the process from start to finish.”
A Seamless Pharmacy Redesign with ScriptPro’s Support
The redesign project was a collaborative effort and a true partnership. ScriptPro worked closely with DBA KCCARE to create an optimized layout that improved both efficiency and patient experience. Within 24 hours, ScriptPro delivered a design plan featuring new cabinetry, shelving, conveyors and a space that maximized the use of the Health Center’s existing automation systems.
The pharmacy is now equipped with ScriptPro’s SP 200 Robot, ScriptPro Pharmacy Management System, and 340B Management Package with TPMS, ScriptPro’s third-party reconciliation solution. These tools have streamlined operations, ensuring accurate dispensing and management of medications.
In April 2023, DBA KCCARE proudly opened the doors to its newly redesigned pharmacy and the patient response was overwhelmingly positive. “They love the new space – it’s bright, welcoming, and equipped with the latest technology,” said Dr. Johnson. “It’s a place that makes them feel valued.”
Driving Better Outcomes Through Partnership and Innovation
DBA KCCARE’s partnership with ScriptPro has been integral to its ongoing mission of providing quality care and promoting wellness in the community.
“Partnering with ScriptPro was a no-brainer,” said Dr. Johson. “Their solutions allow my pharmacists to focus on clinical work, while my technicians can devote more time to patient care. Plus, with their comprehensive offerings, we have everything we need to grow, all in one place.”
