Impact of Pharmacy Closures on the Pharmaceutical Industry

The recent announcement of Walgreens closing 1,200 stores highlights the struggles within the pharmaceutical industry. The presence of pharmacy benefit managers complicates the situation, as they dictate pricing that often leads to inadequate reimbursements for both large and small pharmacies. This dynamic puts additional pressure on independent pharmacies, with many unable to maintain their operations amid these challenges. The overarching concern is the sustainability of drug access for consumers if traditional pharmacies continue to disappear from the market.