During a disaster, access to medications can become critically limited. Mail order pharmacies rely on shipping, which we have reported on consistently through this petition, can be disrupted by natural disasters, road closures, and postal delays.
In contrast, local pharmacies remain accessible, often within walking distance, even during emergencies. Community pharmacists can provide immediate support, counseling, and personalized care tailored to individual needs.
Local pharmacies also maintain essential supplies, allowing them to quickly restock critical medications when shortages occur. They often have established relationships with local healthcare providers, ensuring coordinated care in times of crisis. Moreover, local pharmacies can quickly adapt to the needs of their community, offering alternatives or emergency prescriptions as necessary.
In a disaster, the ability to speak directly with a pharmacist can be invaluable for managing medication changes or side effects. Local pharmacies often serve as community hubs, providing not only medications but also essential health advice and resources. They are familiar with the local population and can offer culturally competent care during stressful times.
While mail order services may seem convenient, they lack the personal touch and immediate support that local pharmacies provide. Ultimately, during a disaster, the quick, reliable access to healthcare that local pharmacies offer can make all the difference in saving lives.
The same corporations, Optum RX, CVS Caremark, & Express Scripts that have merged with insurance companies and force many patients to their own mail order pharmacies have also used their power to close thousands of locally owned independent pharmacies across our nation through purposeful below cost reimbursements.
The three corporations may provide a one time override to use a local pharmacy during a disaster. Is anyone considering the impact of the monopolization of the pharmacy industry as critical lifelines rapidly disappear? Since January 2024, over 2,000 local pharmacies have closed, leaving many communities without accessible pharmaceutical care. This loss means that America is increasingly vulnerable during disasters, pandemics, and when patients urgently need treatment for infections. Without local pharmacies, essential support during critical moments is diminishing, jeopardizing the health and well-being of countless individuals.
HR 9096 is legislation would help save community pharmacy and put an end to the forceful steering to mail order pharmacy. Please contact your member of congress and ask them to cosponsor this legislation.
Let's save America's critical lifeline—local pharmacies—and ensure that patients and communities have the choice to avoid life-threatening risks.
Thank you for your support,
Loretta Boesing, Patient Advocate