ShiftRx转发了
Last July, I wrote an article on ShiftRx about community pharmacies being the closest healthcare access point for many rural Americans. What's changed since then? The situation has worsened for many. Major chains like Walgreens and CVS have continued to close numerous locations, contributing to the emergence of "pharmacy deserts" and leaving many communities without essential healthcare services. Independent pharmacies are grappling with financial pressures due to declining reimbursement rates from pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs). A survey done by the National Community Pharmacists Association (NCPA) revealed that nearly a third of independent pharmacy owners considered closing their stores in 2024 and starting off 2025, under the strain of reduced prescription reimbursements. In the last 8 months, several states have enacted legislation to regulate PBMs and support community pharmacies.?But despite these efforts, the outlook for independent pharmacy owners remains uncertain. The combination of major chain closures and financial instability continues to pose significant threats to their sustainability, especially in rural communities. For those that live in major cities, near urgent care centers and world-class hospitals, this seems pretty unfathomable. But, millions of rural Americans remain at risk for losing their access to healthcare. For those of us building in the healthcare technology space -- it's our job to be advocates to these community pharmacies and raise awareness, so our fellow Americans aren't left behind. #HealthcareReform #PatientOutcomes #RuralMedicine #HealthcareInnovation