Ensure Timely Access to your Prescriptions amongst Pharmacy Closures across WNY

Pharmacy Deserts in WNY

In Western New York many Rite Aid pharmacies are changing ownership and about 70 locations are shutting down. This is part of a broader trend of pharmacy closures nationwide, impacting not only Rite Aid but also other chains like CVS.  These closures represent a huge loss for many communities that will lose convenient access to prescription medication and pharmacy services like consultations, over-the-counter medicine and vaccines.  Much like "food deserts," these pharmacy closures will make it much more difficult for community members across WNY to access goods and services they need to stay healthy and thrive.

It is imperative that patients check the status of their pharmacy to ensure access to their medications and pharmacy services.  Depending on the medication and condition, a break in care can put a person at risk for heart attack or stroke, more intense or painful symptoms, antibiotic and antiviral resistance, or debilitating withdrawal symptoms. Missing doses or abruptly ending a medication has consequences, especially for people who rely on medications for pain management, hormonal treatment or psychiatric and mental health conditions. 

Find a Pharmacy Near You 

You can find a searchable online map of WNY pharmacies here.

You can find a pharmacy by City/Town in this spreadsheet.

You can find a printable map of WNY pharmacies here.

Patient tips for ensuring Medication Access:

Print these tips!

Check Coverage and Ask about 90 Day Supply

• Contact your health insurance provider to find out which pharmacies are covered by your plan. This information is usually available by calling the member services number on the back of your insurance card.
• If you take medication regularly for conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, or asthma, ask about a 90-day supply to reduce trips and to avoid missed doses.

Transfer Your Prescriptions Promptly

• Ask your doctor or prescriber to send new prescriptions directly to your new pharmacy.  IHG patients can update their pharmacy preferences 24/7 via their patient portal. Learn more here!
• Call a new pharmacy as soon as possible to transfer your prescriptions from Rite Aid.
• Follow the prompts or instructions provided by the pharmacy to complete the transfer.

Bring Your Insurance Card

• Always carry your current insurance card when visiting the new pharmacy, allowing the pharmacy to verify coverage for medications and prevents delays as needed.
• A digital version of your card may also be available to save on your phone.
  
  

Ask if the Pharmacy Offers Delivery

• Many pharmacies provide local delivery and/or curbside pickup services.
• Call to see if they deliver to your home- this is especially helpful if you have transportation challenges.
• Be aware that there are often geographic and insurance-based limitations for delivery services.
• Most pharmacies require a credit card on file for delivery, and extra charges may apply.
• Transportation for Erie County residents age 60+ is offered in some communities throughout WNY such as, Orchard Park, Lackawanna, Tonawanda, Elma, Cheektowaga, Clarence, Evans, West Seneca and more! These on demand services can provide transportation to a variety of places including pharmacies.  Learn more about Going Places Transportation Services and how to schedule a ride. 

Plan Ahead for Emergencies

• Refill medications before you run out, especially ahead of travel or bad weather.
• Keep an updated medication list.
• Ask about automatic refills or reminder systems

From the Buffalo & Erie County Food Policy Council: To build an emergency supply of your regular prescription medicines, order your refill ahead. Most insurers, including Medicare plans, will allow you to order your refill up to 5 days ahead of time. Do this twice and continue to order monthly and you will always have a 10 day surplus of medicine on hand.

Store Medications Safely

• Store medications in a cool, dry place, away from heat, sunlight, and moisture to maintain stability.
• Always check the label for any special storage instructions (e.g., refrigeration); note that some medications only require refrigeration before opening.
• Keep all medications out of reach of children and pets.

Always Check Expiration Dates

• Look for expiration dates before taking medications—check the medication box/bottle/injection for the manufacturer expiration date
• Expired medications may not work or may be unsafe.
• Ask your pharmacy about safe disposal options. You can also find local disposal sites on the Erie County website.

Talk to Your Pharmacist

• Don’t hesitate to ask, they’re there to support you!
• They can help with questions, cost-saving tips, and how to take medications properly and safely.
• IHG patients also have access to one-on-one medication management services with a licensed pharmacist through RxLive.  Through a telephone or video appointment, you and a pharmacist can review your medications, discuss adherence, address your health concerns and goals, and find possible cost saving opportunities, all while coordinating your medication management with your IHG provider.  Learn more here!

Print these tips!

Learn more about pharmacies and prescriptions from Erie County Department of Health.

RELATED BLOGS:

Patients with a Rite Aid Pharmacy may need to update their Patient Record

Transportation for Erie County Residents age 60+

One‑on‑one Medication Review Sessions with a Licensed Pharmacist