"Seattle's Bartell's Closure: A Blow to Local Consumers"
The American pharmacy industry is facing a severe crisis, exemplified by the closure of many Bartell Drugs locations in Seattle following Rite Aid's bankruptcy. Factors such as competition from online retailers, reduced reimbursements from pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs), and the opioid crisis have led to widespread pharmacy shutdowns. This has created "pharmacy deserts," particularly affecting underserved communities. The situation is dire for both large chains and independent pharmacies, with many struggling to stay afloat amid financial pressures and changing market dynamics.