New Jersey seniors are facing an increasingly difficult challenge: finding a nearby pharmacy. The rapid closure of both independent and chain pharmacies across the state has created “pharmacy deserts”—areas where residents have little to no access to essential medications and health services.
The scope of this problem is staggering. Major chains like Rite Aid have announced the closure of over 1,200 locations nationwide, with New Jersey bearing a significant portion of these closures. This is part of a broader national crisis, with more than 3,300 pharmacy closures reported across the country. For seniors who rely on regular medications for chronic conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure, these closures can be life-threatening.
Behind many of these closures are Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs)—companies that negotiate contracts with pharmacies. These entities often set reimbursement rates at or below cost, making it financially impossible for pharmacies to stay open. Brian Pinto, owner of Tiffany Natural Pharmacy in Westfield and president of the state pharmacists association, describes these contracts as “take it or leave it,” with little room for negotiation.
The impact falls heaviest on vulnerable communities. When a pharmacy closes, seniors may be forced to travel long distances to fill prescriptions, potentially missing doses or going without necessary medications entirely. This is particularly challenging for those with limited transportation or mobility issues.
While online and telehealth-enabled pharmacies offer some hope by delivering medications via mail-order directly to senior’s homes, the loss of neighborhood pharmacies represents more than convenience—it’s a threat to the health and wellbeing of New Jersey’s aging population.
New Jersey lawmakers are responding with the Patient and Provider Protection Act, which passed out of committee in December. The legislation aims to regulate PBMs more strictly and protect both patients and providers from unfair practices.
Jersey Senior Weekly will continue to follow this legislation as more information becomes available.