Walgreens is closing more pharmacies nationwide, with another store set to shut down this week.
A sign was posted on the door of one Walgreens store, announcing the immediate closure of the pharmacy section.
Walgreens Pharmacy Closes Doors in Bend
The note at the Walgreens pharmacy in Bend, Oregon, explained that the decision to close the pharmacy on Monday was made after careful thought. As per The U.S. Sun, the store's front end will stay open while the pharmacy section is no longer operational.
Customers can still visit to shop for beauty products, household itemsand, groceries, and place photo orders.
This store is one of two Walgreens locations in the town. To accommodate pharmacy customers, the store has directed them to the other nearby Walgreens and expressed regret for any inconvenience caused.
The note also reassured customers that the level of care and convenience they expect from Walgreens would continue at the other location. Customers with questions were encouraged to speak with any Walgreens pharmacist.
Furthermore, it was mentioned that all prescriptions and records have been transferred to the other pharmacy. For regular customers, the closure of the pharmacy section may not be unexpected.
News Channel 21 noted that a customer who shared details from a Walgreens letter mentioned that the Third Street and Franklin pharmacy is severely understaffed, often falling behind on filling prescriptions by 400-500.
When asked about the reasons behind the pharmacy's closure, a Walgreens corporate office spokesperson explained that various factors influence such decisions.
These include the number of existing stores and pharmacies, local market conditions, changes in customer purchasing habits, and staffing issues.
The spokesperson emphasized Walgreens' commitment to its patients, noting that the company has provided options to help ease the transition as this pharmacy shuts down, ensuring continued service for their needs.
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Oregon Trails in Pharmacy Access Nationwide
According to Central Oregon Daily News, a recent study by the Associated Press reveals that Oregon has the second-lowest number of retail pharmacies per capita in the United States, with only Alaska having fewer.
Across Oregon, there are 610 retail pharmacies, translating to 0.14 pharmacies per 1,000 residents. Washington state is slightly ahead, offering 0.15 retail pharmacies per 1,000 people. Idaho shows a higher availability, with 0.17 pharmacies per 1,000 residents.
An interactive map provided by the Associated Press shows that in zip code 97701, where a Bend Walgreens is located, there are 11 pharmacies. This amounts to 0.26 retail pharmacies per 1,000 people in that area.
For Bend's three zip codes combined, there are 19 pharmacies: two in 97703 and six in 97702.
Meanwhile, The U.S. Sun stated that Walgreens has been facing challenges as it shifts its focus from retail pharmacies to healthcare services. The company announced last summer that it would close 150 stores nationwide.
This move is part of a broader restructuring effort, including some locations only closing their pharmacy sections. Additionally, Walgreens announced job cuts totaling 650 positions in Connecticut and Florida.
Former CEO Rosalind Brewer expressed confidence in Walgreens' transition toward becoming a leading healthcare provider, particularly for underserved communities. Although still adjusting, Walgreens reported a decrease in losses, with a $67 million net loss in the first quarter, an improvement from the previous year's $3.7 billion.
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