The Future of Healthcare, and Why We're All In

The following article is from the desk of Nimble's CEO and Founder, Talha Sattar.

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A few weeks ago, Walgreens' CEO Tim Wentworth shared a staggering truth—nearly a quarter of the pharmacy's stores aren’t turning a profit. His announcement was quickly followed by the news of plans to close 1,200 locations over the next three years, adding to CVS’s recent decision to lay off thousands of corporate staff and close stores nationwide. 

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Over-expansion, changing consumer habits, and mounting competition from retail powerhouses like Amazon and Walmart have turned the corner drugstore into a relic of the past. And while these corporations are scrambling to reinvent themselves, one thing is becoming increasingly clear: independent pharmacies are primed to become the number one health destination for millions of Americans.

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At Nimble, we’ve chosen to invest in independent pharmacies for one simple reason: we believe that they are the heart and soul of healthcare. While corporate chains focus on cutting costs, independent pharmacies focus on doubling down on what matters most—personalized care, community connection, and putting patients first.

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Why Independent Pharmacies Are the Future

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Here’s the thing – independent pharmacies have always understood something that the big chains forgot. Healthcare isn’t just a transaction—it’s a relationship. Patients aren’t numbers to be crunched or prescriptions to be filled as quickly as possible. They’re people with complex needs, and independent pharmacists are trusted advisors who take the time to understand those needs.

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In a world where CVS and Walgreens lock up products and understaff their stores, independent pharmacies offer a much different experience. They know your name, they know your family, and they offer services that go far beyond what the big chains can provide. 

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Independent Pharmacies Have the Resources—and the Technology

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There’s a common misconception that independent pharmacies don’t have the resources or technology to keep up with the big chains. But let me set the record straight – independent pharmacies are not just keeping up—they’re often ahead of the game.

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Many independent pharmacies now offer the same conveniences you’d expect from major retailers like Amazon. Same-day delivery? Check. The ability to order and pay from a mobile app? Absolutely. With services like Nimble’s, patients can easily manage prescriptions, order refills, and even pay through their phones without stepping foot in the pharmacy. The idea that only big chains have access to cutting-edge technology is outdated. Independent pharmacies are leveraging powerful tech solutions to offer the kind of personalized service that the big chains simply can’t match.

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We’re seeing independent pharmacies embrace innovations like mobile app integrations, personalized text alerts, and automated refill systems that make the entire prescription process more seamless and convenient. They’re proving that when it comes to healthcare, you don’t need to be a massive corporation to deliver top-tier service. You just need to care about your patients.

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The Perfect Time to Shop Local

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As we head into the holiday season, we’re all reminded to "shop local." But supporting local businesses isn't just about gifts and holiday cheer—it's about investing in the services that make your community thrive year-round. While you're buying gifts from local artisans and visiting neighborhood markets, don’t forget to support your independent pharmacy too. They’re the ones who’ll be there when it matters most—helping you manage chronic conditions, offering trusted advice, and making sure you get the medications you need.

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Why We’re Betting on Independent Pharmacies

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At Nimble, we believe in the power of local care. That’s why we’ve built our entire platform to empower independent pharmacies with the tools they need to compete against the big chains. We’re not just investing in technology—we’re investing in the future of healthcare. A future where independent pharmacies thrive, where patients have access to the personalized care they deserve, and where healthcare is more about people than profits.

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Because when it comes to healthcare, local is better. Always.