Delaware Safeguards Medication Access After Rite Aid Closures
In response to nearly 30 Rite Aid stores closing, **Governor Matt Meyer** has signed Senate Bill 180, fortifying residents’ access to necessary medications, especially in times of emergency.
New Powers for Board of Pharmacy
Senate Bill 180 grants the Board of Pharmacy enhanced authority to adjust Delaware’s licensure protocols. These changes will allow the state to prepare more effectively for emergencies, ensuring continuous access to pharmaceuticals.
According to the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, about 40% of U.S. pharmacists report feeling burned out, underscoring the need for such measures to maintain stable access to care (ASHP).
Meyer stated, “Delawareans deserve 21st-century healthcare, and that includes fast access to quality pharmaceuticals. By allowing out-of-state licensed pharmacists to practice in Delaware during emergencies, we’re taking proactive steps to ensure our residents have uninterrupted access to essential medications.”
Key Provisions of the Bill
The approved bill enables licensed pharmacists from outside Delaware to practice within the state during declared emergencies.
It also empowers the Board of Pharmacy to modernize its regulations, permitting pharmacy technicians to help with prescription transfers.
Additionally, pharmacies can now process faxed prescription transfers for non-controlled substances similarly to original paper prescriptions, provided all necessary information is included.
Legislators Applaud the Measure
Senator Nicole Poore noted the timeliness of the bill: “Senate Bill 180 has been a long time [coming]… the need to modernize the Board of Pharmacy has been exacerbated by the recent closures of Rite Aid,”
She also emphasized that Rite Aid filled over 2.5 million prescriptions in Delaware this year, many for Medicaid recipients.
Representative Kam Smith added, “As Delaware communities continue to feel the deep impact of widespread pharmacy closures, we must act quickly. For many families, these pharmacies are more than just a place to fill prescriptions…they are a lifeline.”
Pharmacy Group’s Perspective
Julie Miro Wenger, Executive Director of the Delaware Association of Chain Drug Stores, commented on the changes. She acknowledged that the closures will force many patients to switch pharmacies, increasing demand on remaining locations.
Miro Wenger stated, “These regulatory and legislative changes offer flexibility that will enhance pharmacy operational efficiencies and enhance their ability to meet increased demand for care in communities throughout the state.”