Pharmacists say drive-through pharmacies lead to medication errors. Over 2.2 million dispensing errors occur in the U.S. each year, and deaths resulting from prescription drugs have doubled in the last decade, claiming a life every 14 minutes. (Source: International Journal for Quality in Health Care, June 2007; The Los Angeles Times, September 17, 2011).

Walgreens' own PR states that their current model of pharmaceutical dispensing doesn't protect patient privacy or allow adequate patient counseling--both of which are required by law. (Source: The New York Times, October 21, 2011)

Walgreens admits their average drive-through is used by 7 cars per hour--which can mean between 20 and 35 minutes of idling time each hour. The DEQ (Department of Environmental Quality) says idling cars are the #1 source of air pollution in Oregon and other states, causing cancer, asthma, lung disease, and heart disease. In addition to causing these fatal diseases, idling takes an enormous financial toll on families and communities, as reported in a recent federal policy study. (Source: http://www.deq.state.or.us/aq/factsheets/10nwr004.pdf​ http://www.portlandonline.com/transportation/index.cfm?c=34749&a=131195​ http://blumenauer.house.gov/images/stories/2011/documents/Freedom_from_Oil.pdf)

Walgreens made $67.4 Billion in sales last year, by emphasizing speed over safety. We're tired of paying the cost of "convenience," with our health and our lives. Tell this "healthcare" company and the government agencies that regulate it to stop putting customers at risk. Let's let pharmacists work like the trained healthcare professionals they are.