Core Insights - The retail pharmacy industry is undergoing significant transformation due to stricter regulations, increased competition, and insufficient demand for pharmaceutical consumption, leading to a decline in customer traffic and store openings [1] - The focus has shifted from rapid store expansion to refined operations, with leading retail companies adopting the "hospital-pharmacy linkage" model to integrate medical resources and health management services, creating a community health ecosystem [1][4] - The "hospital-pharmacy linkage" model is effectively managing chronic disease patients by integrating resources from hospitals and retail pharmacies, enhancing the role of pharmacies in health risk assessment and medication management [1][3] Industry Challenges - Approximately one in three adults in China suffers from multiple chronic diseases, with the number of patients with cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and respiratory diseases exceeding 100 million [2] - The aging population and lifestyle changes are contributing to the rising number of chronic disease patients, while the management and control rates of these diseases remain below the targets set by the "Healthy China 2030" initiative [2] - Primary healthcare institutions face challenges such as insufficient medical staff and inadequate facilities, making it difficult to provide high-quality chronic disease management services [2][3] Innovative Solutions - The "hospital-pharmacy linkage" model has emerged as an innovative solution for chronic disease management, aiming to enhance the overall effectiveness of grassroots healthcare services [3][4] - This model optimizes medical resource allocation, reduces the burden on hospitals, and transforms retail pharmacies from traditional drug sales to professional health service providers [4] - The model has shown significant value in improving patient access to healthcare services and facilitating better chronic disease management, thereby reducing complications and slowing disease progression [4] Implementation and Results - A pilot project for integrated management of chronic diseases was launched in August 2024, yielding initial breakthroughs in various chronic disease areas [5][6] - The "Xi'an model" has been implemented in ten core hospitals in Shaanxi Province, focusing on early screening and regular follow-ups for chronic disease patients, resulting in notable improvements in patient management metrics [6] - The model is expected to expand across Shaanxi Province, enhancing collaboration between hospitals and pharmacies and improving chronic disease management capabilities [7] Future Directions - The "hospital-pharmacy linkage" model is anticipated to play a crucial role in achieving the goals of "Healthy China 2030," with retail pharmacies acting as essential components in the healthcare system [8] - The industry is encouraged to strengthen training for pharmacists and staff, enhance professional service capabilities, and leverage data-driven management to support policy advocacy and industry standards [7][8]