Pharmacy Closures Impact Access to Crucial Medications

A new study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association reveals a concerning trend: the closure of pharmacies in Colorado communities significantly hinders patient access to essential anticonvulsant medications.

The Impact on Patient Health

Anticonvulsant medications are vital for managing epilepsy, neuropathic pain, and psychiatric disorders. Skipping doses of these medications can have serious consequences, leading to increased mortality rates, amplified pain, and a surge in emergency room visits.

Research Findings

Led by Kelly Anderson, PhD, MPP, assistant professor at the University of Colorado Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, the study analyzed all-payer claims data from Colorado. Researchers identified 39 pharmacy closures between January 2018 and June 2022.

“We found a 15.6% reduction in fills and a 14.4% reduction in days supplied for anticonvulsants following these closures,” Anderson explains.

“Furthermore, the disruption in refilling anticonvulsant medications persisted for up to 6 months after the pharmacy closures. Despite the availability of mail-order pharmacies, they were unable to effectively bridge the gap created by the closures.”

U.S. Health System Response

This research builds on prior studies demonstrating a similar decline in the use of cardiovascular medications after pharmacy closures. Anderson emphasizes the need for the U.S. healthcare system to take proactive measures to support patients affected by the loss of community pharmacies.

“Some potential solutions include providing patients with a 90-day supply of medication when a closure is imminent, offering financial aid to pharmacies at risk of closing in underserved communities, and encouraging healthcare providers to actively assist patients in transferring prescriptions,” she suggests.