Keystone Today

Jennifer Riley, Executive Director of Patients Come First, said pharmacy closures have created access issues, particularly for the elderly and those with limited mobility who depend on nearby pharmacies for essential health services. Riley's statement was made in an op-ed published on April 8.

"The closure of community pharmacies underscores a critical issue that resonates deeply in Pennsylvania," said Riley. "These establishments are not merely points of medication distribution; they are integral components of our health care system. It is imperative that we support efforts and advocate for policies that protect our community pharmacies."

According to the op-ed, Pennsylvania has witnessed a significant number of community pharmacy closures in recent years, with over 140 pharmacies shutting down within a single year. These closures are attributed to the practices of pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs), which have been criticized for reducing reimbursement rates to pharmacies. This reduction imposes financial strains that many local establishments cannot withstand. The resultant closures have led to the emergence of "pharmacy deserts," particularly affecting rural and underserved areas where residents now face increased challenges in accessing essential medications and healthcare services.

A study published in the Journal of the American Pharmacists Association reveals that approximately 17.7% of the U.S. population, equating to around 57.1 million individuals, reside in pharmacy deserts. These areas are defined as regions where travel time to the nearest pharmacy exceeds typical access times for supermarkets, disproportionately affecting small rural communities. The study highlights that certain tracts depend solely on a single pharmacy for access, making them particularly vulnerable to becoming pharmacy deserts if that pharmacy closes.

AP News reports that the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has initiated legal action against major PBMs, including CVS Caremark, Express Scripts, and OptumRx. They are accused of engaging in anticompetitive practices that have inflated insulin prices. These PBMs control approximately 80% of U.S. prescriptions and are alleged to have manipulated rebate systems to favor higher-priced insulin products, thereby increasing costs for consumers and limiting access to more affordable options.

Patients Come First describes Jennifer Riley as a respected public affairs leader with over 20 years of experience driving impactful advocacy efforts across Pennsylvania and beyond. Recognized as one of the state’s most influential women, she is committed to breaking down barriers to patient well-being through her work in business, media, nonprofits, and public service.