Pharmacy Deserts Are Growing
Walgreens just announced they are closing 1,200 stores, coming on the heels of similar announcements by other national retain chains. As national pharmacy chains shutter hundreds of stores, a troubling trend is emerging: the creation of pharmacy deserts. These closures, combined with the decline of independent pharmacies, are leaving many communities—especially rural and low-income areas—without access to essential medications and healthcare services. The closures are blamed on declining profits, competitive pressures from online retailers, and regulatory challenges.