Rite Aid to close all Michigan stores; experts warn of ‘pharmacy deserts’

Rite Aid confirmed this week that all Michigan stores would be closing as the business goes through bankruptcy proceedings.

There isn’t a definite timeline for the closures, but Michigan pharmacists are encouraging patients to evaluate their options for prescription medications and preventative care.

“We have serious concern about what’s going to happen in areas where there just aren’t a lot of options and a lot of choice,” said Eric Roath, government affairs director for the Michigan Pharmacists Association.

Rite Aid’s website lists 170 stores across the state, all of which will soon close. The company confirmed Wednesday that all Michigan stores had been added to a bankruptcy filing indicating which stores would be shuttered.

Roath says the closures could lead to the expansion of pharmacy deserts, where physical options are missing or difficult to access.

“When you’re seeing these stores close, you are actually losing those points of access in the community, which makes getting those routine and preventative healthcare services all the more difficult,” he said.

If you’re in an area with other pharmacies nearby, your prescriptions may have been transferred already. You should receive communications from Rite Aid about your prescription status and will be able to transfer your prescription elsewhere if you prefer another location.

“If you do find that you are running low on pharmacy options, I recommend that you reach out to your pharmacy before it closes, and ask their advice as to what solution is going to work best for you,” Roath said.

Those without other pharmacies nearby can receive prescription deliveries from other major retailers or through online services.

“When you’re assessing which pharmacy solution is going to be best for you, think about your needs,” Roath said.

Roath suggested those with more complex medical conditions or changing medication regimens to prioritize in-person consultations or virtual services with counseling options.

“Right now, if you’re a consumer, just having a conversation early on to figure out where your next move is going to be is going to be critically important,” he said.