Pharmacy deserts: Identifying challenges and addressing gaps in access to healthcare
A growing healthcare crisis
Pharmacies are facing pressure from reimbursement challenges, rising costs, and many other factors that are causing some businesses to close their doors. Pharmacy closure can have a ripple effect on the communities being served that stretches far beyond the inconvenience of having to transfer scripts. Patients also rely on pharmacies for healthcare services and resources. The proximity of the other pharmacies in the area can have a huge impact on patient care.
For example, the number of miles a patient must travel can mean the difference between getting the medications they need or going without. It also means reduced access to care services like immunizations and health screenings. This is especially true for patients in communities that are already underserved or have limited transportation options. It’s happening in rural and urban settings alike, and Cencora is taking steps to help pharmacies navigate this dynamic environment.
For example, the number of miles a patient must travel can mean the difference between getting the medications they need or going without. It also means reduced access to care services like immunizations and health screenings. This is especially true for patients in communities that are already underserved or have limited transportation options. It’s happening in rural and urban settings alike, and Cencora is taking steps to help pharmacies navigate this dynamic environment.
Additional insights on pharmacy deserts
Pharmacy Times
Expert discusses pharmacy deserts, expanding pharmacy access
Jenni Zilka, President, Good Neighbor Pharmacy, talks about the growing challenge of pharmacy deserts and the need to maintain the financial viability of pharmacies so they can continue to serve as accessible healthcare destinations.