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]

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the "hospital-pharmacy linkage" model as a significant innovation in chronic disease management, emphasizing its role in connecting healthcare resources and improving patient care in China [1][2][5]. Group 1: Industry Context - The "hospital-pharmacy linkage" model is part of a national pilot project aimed at addressing chronic non-communicable diseases, which account for 88% of total deaths and over 70% of the disease burden in China [1]. - The increasing prevalence of chronic diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, and respiratory conditions highlights the need for effective management strategies, as only 17.2% of diabetes patients show good medication adherence [1][2]. Group 2: Implementation and Impact - Retail pharmacies are becoming crucial in the chronic disease management system, transitioning from traditional drug sellers to health service providers, as outlined in the "Healthy China 2030" plan [2]. - The "hospital-pharmacy linkage" model has expanded from focusing solely on hypertension to include a broader range of chronic diseases, creating diverse innovative practices [3]. - Collaborative efforts between hospitals and pharmacies have led to enhanced training for pharmacists, improved patient education, and better management of chronic diseases through a comprehensive care approach [3][4]. Group 3: Strategic Partnerships - AstraZeneca is actively supporting the "hospital-pharmacy linkage" model, aiming to establish a standardized and professional chronic disease management system that extends care beyond hospital settings [5]. - The company emphasizes the importance of collaboration among various stakeholders to enhance chronic disease management and achieve the goals set forth in the "Healthy China 2030" initiative [5].