Hundreds of major retail pharmacies across the United States have shuttered in recent years, leaving residents without reliable access to prescription medications and essential public health services. According to an analysis by The Associated Press (AP), neighborhoods predominantly inhabited by Latino and Black residents suffer from a lack of pharmacies per capita compared to predominantly white areas.
Dima Qato, PharmD, MPH, PhD, a professor of clinical pharmacy at the University of Southern California, attributes these closures to insufficient investment in pharmacy development and a lack of incentives to remain open in certain neighborhoods. The burden falls on the remaining pharmacies to provide equitable care to thousands of residents.
Jasmine Gonzalvo, PharmD, from Purdue University’s College of Pharmacy, emphasizes the importance of building trust with the community.
Pharmacists play a crucial role in helping customers understand and adhere to their medications. At Bert’s Pharmacy in Elizabeth, New Jersey, owner and pharmacist Prakash Patel ensures Spanish-speaking residents receive clear instructions by providing Spanish-language labels and instructions.
Moreover, pharmacists support customers managing chronic illnesses, which disproportionately affect people of color. Recent research shows that pharmacist-provided care and intervention can help Latino patients lower their A1C levels, a key marker associated with diabetes risk.
These findings underscore the urgent need for targeted efforts to address pharmacy closures and improve health equity in underserved communities.
See “U.S. Pharmacy Closures Impact Latino and Black Neighborhoods” (June 7, 2024)
