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.