West Chester, Pa (December 4, 2024) – Plans for LCH Health and Community Services to open a pharmacy got a major boost this week thanks to state funding secured by state Senators Carolyn Comitta and John Kane.
The grant funding, awarded through the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services, will support the nonprofit community health organization in providing outpatient medications to low and lower-income patients at a significantly reduced cost.
“At LCH Health and Community Services, we are committed to enhancing the well-being of our patients and the community. By owning and operating our own pharmacy, we can ensure that our patients receive the highest quality care with seamless access to medications. This step allows us to offer more personalized, affordable, and convenient pharmaceutical services, ultimately improving health outcomes for those we serve. Our pharmacy will be a cornerstone of our mission to provide comprehensive, community-centered healthcare,” said Ronan W. Gannon, CEO, LCH Health and Community Services
LCH Pharmacy will utilize the 340B pharmacy program to deliver affordable and accessible medications to its patients, many of whom are our most vulnerable community members. Located at LCH’s Kennett Square location, the pharmacy will also offer home delivery to LCH patients in the area, including those in Oxford and West Grove.
LCH Pharmacy will enable the clinical team to work closely with pharmacists and patients to improve medication adherence and outcomes, especially for chronic conditions. For example, last year, LCH served 1,136 individuals diagnosed with diabetes and 1,464 individuals diagnosed with hypertension. Patients who utilize the LCH Pharmacy will benefit from LCH providers having the opportunity to discuss the best medications available for them and their needs.
“LCH continues to expand its community health services while remaining true to its values and patient-centered approach. Offering an on-site patient pharmacy is another big step forward in empowering all people to experience optimal health and wellness – regardless of income, resources, or background,” Comitta said. “I want to thank the LCH staff, volunteers, supporters, and board of members for their continued commitment to maintaining and growing this vital community health asset.”
“LCH is taking healthcare to the next level by ensuring patient care continues beyond checkups by making medications more affordable and accessible for our neighbors,” said Senator John I. Kane. “This pharmacy aligns perfectly with LCH’s mission of serving our community while providing comprehensive, quality care. From pediatrics to dental care to behavioral health, LCH remains essential to maintaining the health and strength of our community. This new pharmacy at LCH exemplifies the kind of project I am always proud to support.”
“We are especially grateful to Senators Comitta and Kane for their unwavering support and dedication to our community. Their advocacy has been instrumental in making this vision a reality, and we look forward to continuing our partnership to improve the health and lives of those we serve,” Gannon added.
Originally founded as a social services organization intended to help agricultural workers who were new to Chester County adjust to the community and access important social services, last year LCH celebrated 50 years of service to the community.
Today, LCH offers comprehensive, integrated, equitable, and accessible care at its locations in Kennett Square, West Grove, and Oxford, while remaining focused on overcoming barriers to care like language, transportation, and access. LCH provides direct health care including pediatrics, dental care, behavioral health, women’s health, and chiropractic services to individuals with or without insurance.
A Federally Qualified Health Center, LCH offers sliding scale fees based on income and family size. No one is turned away due to inability to pay. Last year, LCH served 8,490 individuals, 41 percent of whom were at 100 percent or more of the federal poverty level. Since many patients are on limited incomes and work hourly jobs, LCH offers integrated care to address as many needs as possible while they are at their appointments.
For more information on LCH, visit lchcommunityhealth.org
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