A concerning trend in the US is emerging in minority neighborhoods: the closure of pharmacies. This issue is not just about the loss of a convenient location to fill prescriptions; it represents a deeper, more systemic problem that affects the health and well-being of minority communities.
Major drugstore chains like Walgreens, CVS, and Rite Aid have been closing their stores in large numbers over the past few years. Reports indicate that more than 1,500 stores have been shut down, affecting minority communities the most. These closures are a result of various factors, including financial struggles of the chains themselves, changes in the retail pharmacy landscape, and the rise of online prescription services. While these factors might seem purely business-related, they have far-reaching consequences on public health, especially in low-income and minority neighborhoods .
The concept of “pharmacy deserts” has gained attention in this context. These are areas where access to a pharmacy is significantly limited, often affecting Black and Latino communities disproportionately. The absence of local pharmacies in these neighborhoods creates significant barriers to healthcare access. For instance, a diabetic patient who finds it challenging to travel long distances for insulin is at risk of skipping essential medication. This is particularly troubling considering that pharmacies are not just points for dispensing medication but also serve as critical healthcare hubs, offering services like vaccinations, health screenings, and advice on various health issues.
Studies have shown that one-third of neighborhoods in the largest U.S. cities qualify as pharmacy deserts. This lack of access impacts nearly 15 million people, with a disproportionate effect on racial and ethnic minorities. The presence of a pharmacy within a reasonable distance is more than a convenience; it’s a lifeline for many, especially for those who rely on public transportation or do not own a vehicle .
The closure of pharmacies in minority neighborhoods is also a reflection of broader social and economic disparities. These areas often see less investment and are impacted more by issues like low reimbursement rates for public insurance, which makes them less attractive for big pharmacy chains. The situation calls for a concerted effort from policymakers, healthcare providers, and community stakeholders to address this gap and ensure equitable access to essential health services. This could include strategies like improving partnerships between healthcare and prescription providers, establishing pharmacies in accessible locations like churches or community centers, and implementing policies that incentivize the opening of new pharmacies in underserved areas.
The closure of pharmacies in minority neighborhoods is a complex issue with profound implications for public health and social justice. It highlights the need for a multi-faceted approach that considers not only the economic aspects but also the broader health outcomes of the affected communities. As a society, we must strive to ensure that everyone, regardless of their location or economic status, has access to the crucial healthcare services they need and deserve.
- Iscaninfo.com. (2024). Here’s why drug stores are closing in minority neighborhoods: Walgreens, CVS and Rite Aid shutter more than 1,000. Retrieved from https://www.iscaninfo.com/article/15312721/Here%E2%80%99s-Why-Drug-Stores-Are-Closing-In-Minority-Neighborhoods–Walgreens–CVS-And-Rite-Aid-Shutter-More-Than-1-000.
- WTTW News. (2023). Drug store chains like CVS, Walgreens and Rite Aid are closing thousands of stores. Here’s why. Retrieved from https://news.wttw.com.
- Everyday Health. (2023). Pharmacy deserts leave black and Latino neighborhoods without accessible healthcare. Retrieved from https://www.everydayhealth.com.
- MedicalXpress.com. (2023). Pharmacy closures found to be impacting medically underserved communities. Retrieved from https://medicalxpress.com/news/2023-08-pharmacy-closures-impacting-medically-underserved.html.
- Pharmacy Times. (2021). Study: One-third of neighborhoods in large US cities are pharmacy deserts. Retrieved from https://www.pharmacytimes.com.
- USC Schaeffer. (2023). ‘Pharmacy deserts’ disproportionately affect black and Latino residents in largest U.S. cities. Retrieved from https://healthpolicy.usc.edu.
- Direct Relief. (2023). Pharmacy closures more likely to affect low-income, minority neighborhoods. Here’s why. Retrieved from https://www.directrelief.org.
- Medicare Advocacy. (2021). Studies highlight barriers to health equity: Access to pharmacies & telehealth. Retrieved from https://medicareadvocacy.org.