As COVID-19 upends usual modes of shopping, Americans are exploring safer ways of accessing essentials – including medication. How might the pandemic boost the long-term appeal of online pharmacies? And beyond convenience, what are the advantages of getting prescriptions this way?

Before the coronavirus pandemic, both health providers and patients were reluctant to embrace telehealth, despite the convenience. But attitudes are changing as people see the benefits of going remote. What can brands do to provide the quality of care people expect, but from a distance?

As Amazon moves into pharmaceuticals, over-the-counter meds could soon become through-the-mailbox meds. Couple this with growing comfort among American consumers for seeking medical advice online, and the diagnosis looks bleak for the country’s drugstore chains and independents.

With major chains closing branches and e-commerce eating into customer bases, American department stores are having to innovate to remain relevant. Neighborhood Goods is going about this by offering an ever-changing product selection, a focus on community, and complete transparency.