The National Association of Chain Drug Stores found that almost 92 percent of Americans live within five miles of a community pharmacy, but that five miles can be too far for some residents to access. Nationally, about 100 million people could be without reasonable access to a pharmacy, according to Drug Topics.
Pharmacy deserts are more common in poorer and minority neighborhoods, in part because of a lack of insurance coverage and pharmacy reimbursement. Pharmacies in areas where many people use Medicare and Medicaid struggle to make enough money to stay open, according to Drug Topics.
Amazon’s PillPack, which delivers prescriptions to patients, would likely attract people living in pharmacy deserts, as it would give them easier access than commuting to the nearest pharmacy.
Read the full report here.
More articles on pharmacy:
World Pharmacist Day promotes use of safe and effective medicines
USP delays release of updated compounding standards
Americans pay up to 67 times more for drugs than other countries
Becker’s 3rd Annual Fall Chief Pharmacy Officer Summit is the top tier event that the people leading the future of pharmacy convene. This 3-day event is built specifically for Chief Pharmacy Officers and senior pharmacy leaders. The sessions examine the workforce, financial and clinical priorities shaping pharmacy today. Becker’s is where candid discussions flourish and new ideas thrive. Becker's 3rd Annual Fall Chief Pharmacy Officer Summit
