Pharmacy Closures Raise Concerns About Healthcare Access in Connecticut
Walgreens has announced the closure of two additional stores in Connecticut, bringing the total number of closures in the state to five. The affected locations are in Milford and Middletown, with closures scheduled for April 2025.
Milford Store Closure
The Walgreens store at 1083 Boston Post Road in Milford is set to close on April 21, 2025. Patients who have prescriptions at this location will have them automatically transferred to the nearby Walgreens at 541 Bridgeport Avenue in Milford. Customers will receive notifications by mail regarding the transfer and are eligible for free 90-day delivery services.
Middletown Store Closure
Similarly, the Walgreens store located at 311 East Main Street in Middletown will close on April 23, 2025. Prescriptions from this store will be transferred to the Walgreens at 633 Washington Street in Middletown. Affected patients will be notified by mail and can take advantage of the free 90-day delivery option.
Previous Store Closures
These closures follow earlier announcements of Walgreens shutting down stores in Waterbury, Hartford, and New Haven. The Waterbury location at 11 Meriden Road is scheduled to close in late April 2025.
The Hartford store at 161 Washington Street and the New Haven store at 435 Whalley Avenue have already closed in mid-March 2025.
Company’s Statement
A Walgreens spokesperson cited increased regulatory and reimbursement pressures affecting the company’s ability to cover costs related to rent, staffing, and supplies. The spokesperson emphasized that closing stores is a difficult decision, especially given the importance of these locations to the communities they serve. Walgreens is working to minimize customer disruptions by transferring prescriptions to nearby stores and offering free delivery services.
Industry Context
The trend of pharmacy closures in Connecticut is part of a broader pattern affecting national chains like Walgreens, CVS, and Rite Aid. These companies are facing challenges such as declining reimbursement rates, competition from online pharmacies, and supply chain issues. Experts warn that these closures could lead to “pharmacy deserts,” particularly impacting socioeconomically disadvantaged areas.
Community Impact
The reduction in pharmacy locations raises concerns about access to essential health services. Residents in affected areas may need to travel greater distances to fill prescriptions or seek health advice. Local governments and community organizations are encouraged to monitor these changes and advocate for solutions to ensure continued access to pharmaceutical care.
Looking Ahead
As Walgreens continues to adjust its operations in response to financial and regulatory challenges, further store closures may occur. Customers are advised to stay informed about changes in their local pharmacies and consider transferring prescriptions to nearby locations or exploring mail-order pharmacy options to maintain uninterrupted access to medications.
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