17 more pharmacy closures announced amid ongoing bankruptcy and healthcare access concerns

Millions of Americans rely on their neighborhood pharmacy not just for prescriptions, but for everyday health needs.

Now, another wave of store closures at Rite Aid could make that harder for many communities.

The company, once one of the largest pharmacy chains in the US, is shutting down 17 more stores following its most recent bankruptcy filing.


This marks the second time in under two years that Rite Aid has filed for bankruptcy protection.

With more closures expected, patients and families may need to reconsider how they access essential healthcare.


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Pharmacy closures are raising concerns about access to essential medications and services in many communities. Image source: Pexels / Tima Miroshnichenko.


Rite Aid’s decline continues amid second bankruptcy​


Rite Aid was once a common sight across the country, with more than 5,000 stores at its peak in 2008.

Today, only 708 remain.

On July 18, the company confirmed plans to close another 17 locations, with the newest round affecting stores in Washington, New York, Oregon, Maryland, New Hampshire, and Ohio.

This is part of a broader effort to close or sell all remaining 1,200 Rite Aid locations.

Some may be purchased and reopened under new ownership, but many are expected to shut down entirely.


Also read: Rite Aid announces more store closures—here’s what it could mean for your community

Why is Rite Aid closing so many stores?​


Rite Aid’s struggles reflect several challenges facing the retail pharmacy industry.

CEO Matt Schroeder attributed the closures to ongoing financial strain.

A closer look reveals multiple contributing factors:

  • High levels of debt from years of financial mismanagement and borrowing
  • Declining foot traffic as more consumers turn to online pharmacies or large retailers
  • Competitive pressure from major chains like CVS and Walgreens
  • Legal costs related to opioid lawsuits, which have affected both finances and public trust
  • Shifts in healthcare delivery, including mail-order medications and digital health services

Rite Aid is not alone in this shift. CVS and Walgreens have also closed stores in recent years, highlighting an industry-wide change in how pharmacy care is delivered.


Also read: A familiar pharmacy chain is struggling—and it’s asking customers not to jump ship

What does bankruptcy mean in this case?​


Rite Aid filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, which is designed to help companies restructure debt and attempt to stay open.

This differs from Chapter 7 bankruptcy, which typically leads to full liquidation and closure.

In Rite Aid’s case, Chapter 11 provides a path for restructuring—but it also means the loss of stores, jobs, and potentially vital community resources.


Source: YouTube / WHTM - abc27 News


Also read: Warning: Most online pharmacies might be dangerous—here’s what you need to know to protect your health

The impact of pharmacy deserts​


A growing concern among healthcare advocates is the rise of pharmacy deserts—areas where residents have little or no access to a nearby pharmacy.

According to GoodRx, more than 48 million Americans already struggled to reach a drugstore before this latest round of closures.

That number has increased from 41 million in 2021.

Many of the counties affected by store closures were already underserved.

For seniors, rural communities, and individuals with limited mobility, the loss of a local pharmacy can mean delayed prescriptions, missed vaccines, and fewer opportunities to consult with a pharmacist.

Tori Marsh, senior director of research at GoodRx, stated: “Many of the counties hardest hit by pharmacy closures already had limited access. Now, they’re losing their last remaining pharmacies, creating healthcare deserts with no immediate solutions in place.”

Also read: Kroger’s pharmacy problem sparks concern—“This can’t happen again”

What to do if your local pharmacy is closing​


If your nearby Rite Aid is on the closure list—or you suspect it may be—consider the following steps:

  1. Search for alternatives: Use tools like GoodRx or your health insurance provider’s website to locate nearby pharmacies.
  2. Consider mail-order options: Many insurers and national chains offer home delivery of prescriptions.
  3. Speak with your doctor: They can advise you on how to manage medication transitions or specialty prescriptions.
  4. Stay updated: Rite Aid’s website and local news outlets may report on store changes or updates about potential reopenings.


Source: YouTube / Straight Arrow News


Also read: This pharmacy tip slashed this woman's prescription bill to $45—find out how!

What’s next for pharmacy access in the US?​


Rite Aid’s story is part of a broader transformation in how Americans access care.

Experts expect to see more consolidation among pharmacy chains, as well as innovations like telepharmacy and digital health hubs.

While some new models could improve access, they may take time to expand, especially in rural or low-income areas.

For now, staying informed and planning ahead may help minimize the disruption.

Read next: Are you one of the 1 million? This drugstore announces massive coverage cuts that could leave patients stranded

Key Takeaways

  • Rite Aid has announced 17 additional store closures following its second Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing in less than two years.
  • The closures are linked to financial difficulties, legal liabilities, and competition from larger pharmacy chains.
  • Experts warn that more closures may expand so-called “pharmacy deserts,” especially in areas already lacking easy access to healthcare.
  • Patients are encouraged to explore alternatives such as mail-order services and stay in touch with healthcare providers during the transition.

Have you been affected by a local pharmacy closure? How has it changed your access to prescriptions or healthcare services? Do you have advice for others facing similar challenges? Share your experiences—we’d love to hear how you’re navigating these changes in your community.
 

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