Health Mart announces launch of Health Across America: Pharmacists Partnering in Diabetes Care campaign
SAN FRANCISCO Health Mart, a network of independently owned pharmacies, on Thursday announced the launch of the Health Across America: Pharmacists Partnering in Diabetes Care campaign, sponsored by Health Mart Pharmacy, Bayer Diabetes Care and Novo Nordisk.
The mobile campaign, which includes a multi-city bus tour this summer, aims to spotlight the important role that community pharmacists can play in supporting the early detection and day-to-day management of diabetes. The campaign will provide free diabetes screenings at community events and Health Mart pharmacies across the country. The listing of the campaign’s diabetes screening events and locations can be found at www.HealthAcrossAmerica.net.
“I’ve worked with my community pharmacist for years to help manage my diabetes, and I encourage others with diabetes or chronic conditions to engage in healthy conversations with their pharmacists to help improve their health,” stated Erik Chopin, a former winning contestant of “The Biggest Loser” and Health Across America campaign spokesman. “Pharmacists are experts in a variety of topics such as diabetes education, nutrition and exercise, blood sugar monitoring, insulin delivery, and the management of multiple medications. They can also work with local physicians to discuss other clinical issues related to their patients’ health.”
At each stop during the Health Across America tour, participants will have the opportunity to receive free diabetes screenings including glucose, blood pressure and Hemoglobin A1c tests. Health Mart pharmacists will also be on hand to discuss healthy living with patients. Additionally, participants will be given free product samples and diabetes education materials from Bayer Diabetes Care, Novo Nordisk and several other sponsors. In addition to the tour stops, a majority of the more than 2,000 Health Mart pharmacies will conduct diabetes screenings and/or education events in their local communities.
“Community pharmacists are essential players on the healthcare team, and they have the expertise, time, and passion for talking to patients about their health concerns,” stated David Sedrak, owner, Med Rx Health Mart Pharmacy in Escondido, Calif. “With Health Across America, we’re helping connect Health Mart pharmacists to people with diabetes and those at risk of developing the disease to ensure they receive personalized care to successfully manage their diabetes and live full, active, and healthy lives. People with diabetes and other chronic conditions can benefit greatly from the deep clinical knowledge and personal counseling services that community pharmacists provide.”