Addressing Pharmacy Shortages: Improving Health Equity and Access

The Pharmacy Access Initiative, developed by the USC Alfred E. Mann School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, has identified a significant issue: nearly 1 in 4 neighborhoods in the US are pharmacy shortage areas. This lack of access to essential medication and pharmacy services disproportionately affects marginalized communities, including low-income neighborhoods and rural areas. It's crucial to address this structural inequity to ensure everyone, regardless of their location or socioeconomic status, has access to necessary healthcare services. Therefore, it's requested that policy changes be considered to improve health equity and expand pharmacy networks. This initiative not only promotes physical health but also supports mental health and the specific needs of diverse populations, including transgender individuals and those seeking reproductive healthcare.