How expanding the role of pharmacists is improving care in North Carolina

How the More Than a Script program is expanding access to care through local pharmacists

Access to care can be a challenge for many North Carolinians, especially in rural communities, where distance, provider shortages, and transportation barriers too often stand in the way of better health. Many of these communities already have a resource in place: local pharmacists, who are among the most frequently visited health care professionals but are often underutilized in patient care.

Two years ago, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina (Blue Cross NC) launched More Than a Script to close this gap by expanding the role of pharmacists as a source of high-quality, accessible care. The program connects eligible members with pharmacies that provide ongoing clinical support of chronic conditions, helping patients stay on track between doctor visits.

Participating independent pharmacies go beyond dispensing prescriptions. Pharmacists work one-on-one with members to optimize medications, deliver personalized education, and provide regular follow-up through in-person, phone, or virtual visits. These services are provided at no cost to the member, with pharmacies reimbursed for the care they deliver.

Growing impact

In two years, the program has grown into a statewide model with strong participation and measurable results.

• More than 100 pharmacies are participating across North Carolina
• More than 1,000 members are actively engaged

The program is delivering meaningful outcomes:

• Approximately 84.8% of participants are meeting their health goals
• $1.58 million in cost savings to date

The program currently targets diabetes and hypertension—two of the most common and complex conditions to manage in our state.

Pharmacists support members by managing medications, providing education on diet and lifestyle, and conducting regular follow-ups. In many communities, they are the most accessible point of care, offering timely, ongoing support between doctor visits.

Expanding access where it matters most

This level of accessibility is especially important in rural communities. More than 43% of program participants live in rural areas, where their local pharmacy may be the most consistent—and sometimes only—connection to care.

By embedding clinical services in these settings, the program makes it easier for members to stay engaged, manage their conditions, and receive timely care. This program improves access, reduces the risk of complications, and helps prevent avoidable emergency care.

When patients are supported outside the exam room, everyone benefits.

From trusted care to broader reach

At the heart of the program are the pharmacists delivering care every day. By building relationships with patients and working alongside their doctors, they are helping reshape how care is delivered at the community level.

With strong results and growing engagement, Blue Cross NC is bringing this model of care to more members by:

• Expanding the pharmacy network, increasing the number of participating locations
• Extending geographic reach, with a focus on rural communities across North Carolina
• Scaling clinical services to cover more conditions

More Than a Script demonstrates what’s possible when pharmacists are fully integrated into the care team: bringing care closer to home and delivering better health outcomes at a lower cost.