Independent pharmacies know their communities. But many are struggling to stay open.

from stateline.org

Independent pharmacies know their communities. But many are struggling to stay open. • Stateline

Rural and underserved communities suffer higher rates of chronic health conditions, making pharmacies a lifeline.

"Independent drugstores are closing at an alarming rate — about one a day in 2023 — squeezed by the huge companies that reimburse pharmacies for costly medications.

But with each closure, a community loses more than another place where they can buy medicine. Experts say independent drugstores are more likely to know their patrons, offer health and medication counseling, and, crucially, serve communities in need.

A 2023 study funded by the National Institutes of Health found that the estimated 15.1 million Americans who rely on independently owned pharmacies are more likely to have lower incomes, live in rural areas and to be at least 65 years old. Their health is more complicated, and they’re more likely to need one-on-one counseling to juggle multiple medications.

As a result, those communities — already vulnerable to lack of care — are hardest hit when independent pharmacies shutter. Lower drug reimbursements compared with those offered to chain pharmacies, such as CVS and Walgreens, are a big factor."