Why 23 CVS stores are closing—and what it means for your prescriptions
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If you live in Arkansas or have family there, you might want to check your pharmacy.
CVS just announced it’s closing 23 of its locations across the state—and for many people, that could mean big changes to how they access their prescriptions.
These closures aren’t just about shifting business strategy—they’re tied to a new state law that’s reshaping how pharmacies operate, and it’s already sparking controversy.
At The GrayVine, we know how important it is to stay ahead of changes that affect your health and finances.
Whether you rely on a local pharmacy for chronic medications, vaccines, or just peace of mind, here’s what you need to know—and what you can do to prepare.
What’s happening?
Starting January 1, 2026, HB1150 will prohibit pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) from owning pharmacies in Arkansas.
PBMs are third-party companies that help manage drug benefits for insurance plans and often negotiate prices between manufacturers, insurers, and pharmacies.
Since CVS Health owns both CVS Pharmacy and a PBM (CVS Caremark), the company says it will shut down all 23 pharmacies in Arkansas that fall under the new rule.
Why some pharmacy groups support the law
Organizations like the Arkansas Pharmacists Association (APA) and the National Community Pharmacists Association (NCPA) say this is a step toward fairness in the prescription drug industry.
According to APA CEO John Vinson, HB1150 will “stop the abusive self-dealing at PBM-affiliated pharmacies that raises prescription drug prices and limits patient access.”
NCPA’s Anne Cassity added that the law targets “the conflicts of interest inherent in vertical integration that PBMs have been manipulating to the detriment of patients, taxpayers, and pharmacies.”
Also read: What happened at CVS? Company responds to customer concern following major misstep
CVS says the law will do more harm than good
CVS Health strongly opposes the law, warning that the closures will not reduce drug prices and could hurt patients.
In a statement, the company said HB1150 “will take away access to pharmacy care in local communities, hike prescription drug spending across the state by millions of dollars each year, and cost hundreds of Arkansans their jobs.”
The company said the closures will affect:
CVS also noted that CVS Caremark “reimburses independent pharmacies in Arkansas 61% higher than it does CVS pharmacies,” arguing that the law may not deliver the savings lawmakers hope for.
Also read: Are you one of the 1 million? This drugstore announces massive coverage cuts that could leave patients stranded
A broader shift in strategy
These closures aren’t happening in a vacuum.
CVS Health is already in the final stages of a nationwide plan to shut down 900 stores—nearly 10% of its retail footprint.
CEO Karen Lynch said the goal is to focus on “the right kinds of stores in the right locations,” with an increased focus on healthcare services like primary care and its expanded “HealthHub” format.
Another big change: CVS is exiting Obamacare in 17 states
In a separate decision, CVS also confirmed it will exit the Affordable Care Act (ACA) individual insurance marketplace in 17 states by 2026.
This move affects around one million people enrolled in Aetna plans (Aetna is owned by CVS Health).
A statement from the company said it’s focusing more on other areas of its health benefit portfolio and will continue to support ACA members through 2025.
Still, impacted members will need to select new health insurance during the 2025 open enrollment period for coverage starting in 2026.
Also read: How one shopper slashed her $98 CVS bill down to $11—here’s how you can do it too
What this means for you
If you live in Arkansas or use Aetna through the ACA, here’s what you can do:
For many older adults, the local pharmacy is more than just a place to pick up medication.
It’s part of their health support system—offering trusted advice, personalized care, and a familiar face.
Losing that connection can be stressful, especially for those living in rural or underserved areas.
As debates continue across the country about drug pricing and pharmacy ownership, more states may follow Arkansas’s lead.
Whatever changes come, staying informed will help you make the best choices for your health and finances.
Read next: Kroger’s pharmacy problem sparks concern—“This can’t happen again”
Have you been affected by pharmacy closures in your area? Do you rely on CVS or Aetna for prescriptions or health coverage? Are you worried about how these changes could impact your care—or do you think this law might lead to fairer pricing in the long run? Share your thoughts below!
CVS just announced it’s closing 23 of its locations across the state—and for many people, that could mean big changes to how they access their prescriptions.
These closures aren’t just about shifting business strategy—they’re tied to a new state law that’s reshaping how pharmacies operate, and it’s already sparking controversy.
At The GrayVine, we know how important it is to stay ahead of changes that affect your health and finances.
Whether you rely on a local pharmacy for chronic medications, vaccines, or just peace of mind, here’s what you need to know—and what you can do to prepare.
Pharmacy customers in Arkansas may soon need to find new options as 23 CVS locations prepare to close following a new state law. Image Source: Pexels / Tim Mossholder.
What’s happening?
Starting January 1, 2026, HB1150 will prohibit pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) from owning pharmacies in Arkansas.
PBMs are third-party companies that help manage drug benefits for insurance plans and often negotiate prices between manufacturers, insurers, and pharmacies.
Since CVS Health owns both CVS Pharmacy and a PBM (CVS Caremark), the company says it will shut down all 23 pharmacies in Arkansas that fall under the new rule.
Why some pharmacy groups support the law
Organizations like the Arkansas Pharmacists Association (APA) and the National Community Pharmacists Association (NCPA) say this is a step toward fairness in the prescription drug industry.
According to APA CEO John Vinson, HB1150 will “stop the abusive self-dealing at PBM-affiliated pharmacies that raises prescription drug prices and limits patient access.”
NCPA’s Anne Cassity added that the law targets “the conflicts of interest inherent in vertical integration that PBMs have been manipulating to the detriment of patients, taxpayers, and pharmacies.”
Also read: What happened at CVS? Company responds to customer concern following major misstep
CVS says the law will do more harm than good
CVS Health strongly opposes the law, warning that the closures will not reduce drug prices and could hurt patients.
In a statement, the company said HB1150 “will take away access to pharmacy care in local communities, hike prescription drug spending across the state by millions of dollars each year, and cost hundreds of Arkansans their jobs.”
The company said the closures will affect:
- More than 500 healthcare workers who may lose their jobs
- 10,000 patients who rely on specialty care from these pharmacies
- Several 24-hour pharmacy locations that serve underserved communities
CVS also noted that CVS Caremark “reimburses independent pharmacies in Arkansas 61% higher than it does CVS pharmacies,” arguing that the law may not deliver the savings lawmakers hope for.
Also read: Are you one of the 1 million? This drugstore announces massive coverage cuts that could leave patients stranded
A broader shift in strategy
These closures aren’t happening in a vacuum.
CVS Health is already in the final stages of a nationwide plan to shut down 900 stores—nearly 10% of its retail footprint.
CEO Karen Lynch said the goal is to focus on “the right kinds of stores in the right locations,” with an increased focus on healthcare services like primary care and its expanded “HealthHub” format.
Another big change: CVS is exiting Obamacare in 17 states
In a separate decision, CVS also confirmed it will exit the Affordable Care Act (ACA) individual insurance marketplace in 17 states by 2026.
This move affects around one million people enrolled in Aetna plans (Aetna is owned by CVS Health).
A statement from the company said it’s focusing more on other areas of its health benefit portfolio and will continue to support ACA members through 2025.
Still, impacted members will need to select new health insurance during the 2025 open enrollment period for coverage starting in 2026.
CVS Health and Aetna face major changes, including pharmacy closures in Arkansas and an exit from ACA insurance plans in 17 states by 2026. Image Source: YouTube / Associated Press.
Also read: How one shopper slashed her $98 CVS bill down to $11—here’s how you can do it too
What this means for you
If you live in Arkansas or use Aetna through the ACA, here’s what you can do:
- Check your CVS location: Ask your local pharmacist if your store is among those closing.
- Transfer your prescriptions: Research nearby pharmacy options—independent pharmacies, grocery stores, or national chains.
- Talk to your doctor: If you rely on specialty medication or services, ask for recommendations.
- Review your insurance: If you’re affected by the Aetna exit, prepare to review and compare other plans for 2026 coverage.
For many older adults, the local pharmacy is more than just a place to pick up medication.
It’s part of their health support system—offering trusted advice, personalized care, and a familiar face.
Losing that connection can be stressful, especially for those living in rural or underserved areas.
As debates continue across the country about drug pricing and pharmacy ownership, more states may follow Arkansas’s lead.
Whatever changes come, staying informed will help you make the best choices for your health and finances.
Read next: Kroger’s pharmacy problem sparks concern—“This can’t happen again”
Have you been affected by pharmacy closures in your area? Do you rely on CVS or Aetna for prescriptions or health coverage? Are you worried about how these changes could impact your care—or do you think this law might lead to fairer pricing in the long run? Share your thoughts below!
