A new study from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center, College of Pharmacy, shows that pharmacists can play a leading role in improving how patient health data is shared across care teams. Funded by the NCPDP Foundation General Grant Fund, this research focused on implementing the Pharmacist eCare Plan (PeCP) to connect a community pharmacy and a medical office, paving the way for more seamless and effective collaboration.

What the Study Found

The study applied HL7® FHIR technology—a widely recognized standard for health data exchange—to support communication between pharmacists and prescribers. The intervention targeted patients undergoing transitions of care, where breakdowns in communication often put patients at risk.

After initial IT integration, the PeCP enabled ongoing, efficient data sharing. Both prescribers and pharmacists expressed strong interest in interoperable data, recognizing its value in supporting clinical decision-making, reducing duplication, and improving patient outcomes.

Why It Matters for Pharmacy Practice

Interoperability—the ability of different health systems to share and use information—has long been a challenge in U.S. healthcare. This study demonstrates that pharmacists are not only ready but also well-positioned to help solve this problem. By using the PeCP, pharmacists can ensure that critical updates on medications, therapies, and patient needs reach the broader care team in real time.

This progress also has implications for independent pharmacies, which often serve as trusted community health hubs. With access to interoperable tools like the eCare Plan, independent pharmacists can strengthen care coordination, build closer relationships with prescribers, and reinforce their essential role in healthcare reform.

What’s Next

J.W. Hill, MBAHCM, Executive Director of the NCPDP Foundation, celebrated the study’s results, noting:

“We are thrilled with the results of this study, which highlight the critical role of pharmacists in healthcare data interoperability. The findings underscore the importance of seamless data exchange in improving patient care and coordination.”

Looking forward, the study encourages additional research into broader use cases for the PeCP, from larger clinic-pharmacy collaborations to integration in more complex patient care settings.

Takeaway

This milestone shows that pharmacist-led interoperability is not only possible but also practical. As healthcare moves toward greater data sharing and collaboration, pharmacists—especially those in independent and community settings—are positioned to lead the way in improving access, safety, and outcomes for patients.