National pharmacy chain Rite Aid has officially filed for bankruptcy as part of its strategy to address unprofitable stores and approximately $4 billion in debt. According to court filings, Rite Aid plans to close multiple stores in 17 states.
However, Rite Aid isn’t alone in facing closures. Since 2018, Walgreens and CVS have collectively shut down over 1,000 stores nationwide. Additionally, independent pharmacies have struggled, with a 50% decrease in the number of stores from 1980 to 2022, as reported by McKinsey.
This long-standing trend raises questions about the impact on individuals who rely on these pharmacies and what alternatives are available if their local pharmacy closes. To provide insight, doctors weigh in on the matter.
How do pharmacy closures affect health access?
Pharmacy closures can result in the formation of pharmacy deserts, where residents live at least 10 miles away from the nearest pharmacy. Dr. David Holmes, a clinical associate professor of family medicine and director of global health education, warns that this lack of access can hinder vaccine availability and access to crucial medications. Stephen Crystal, director of the Rutgers Center for Health Services Research, shares concerns about limited access to antiretroviral medications and medication for opioid use disorder.
The consequences of these closures extend to both short-term and chronic health issues. Dr. Utibe R. Essien, an assistant professor of medicine, emphasizes that when individuals are unable to obtain their medication due to closures, adherence to prescriptions suffers, leading to poor health outcomes. This is especially true for time-sensitive illnesses like the flu, COVID-19, and bacterial infections. Jamie Alan, an associate professor of pharmacology and toxicology, highlights the strain placed on remaining pharmacies to meet increased demand, potentially resulting in errors and compromised health.
Who is most affected by pharmacy closures?
While pharmacy deserts can affect anyone, certain groups experience greater impacts. Research indicates that pharmacies catering to customers on public insurance face a higher risk of closure, as reimbursement rates are lower compared to private health plans. This has significant repercussions for underserved, underrepresented, and rural communities.
Older adults may face specific challenges as they may struggle to navigate online prescription delivery services or find new pharmacies due to limited internet proficiency. Longer phone wait times and busier pharmacies further exacerbate the situation.
What to do in the event of a local pharmacy closure
One option is to consider using a mail-order pharmacy for long-term medication needs. Some pharmacies offer prescription mailing services or delivery options, but it’s important to inquire about availability in your area. Grocery stores and larger retailers often house pharmacies, although they may be less convenient compared to major chains like Rite Aid and CVS.
Consulting with your prescribing doctor can provide valuable insights into alternative pharmacy options nearby. Despite these measures, experts agree that pharmacy closures are detrimental to overall health, as access to life-saving medications remains of utmost importance.
