‘It’s a starting point,’ VCU researcher hopes new study will address pharmacy deserts in Richmond

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — Findings from a new study conducted by Virginia Commonwealth University researchers and the Virginia Board of Pharmacy found 51 pharmacy deserts across the state, several of which are in the Metro Richmond area.

8News first spoke with Breana Arbrust, the Executive Director with the Neighborhood Resource Center on Feb. 3. At the time, she said her team had to step up their help in the Fulton neighborhood after a nearby Capital Area Health Network Center closed. The closure being one of three reported closures by the company due to unforeseen federal restrictions.

Dr. Teresa Salgado with the VCU School of Pharmacy, tells 8News pharmacy closures started to increase after the pandemic. She says this is one of several factors that lead her to join a statewide study to look into the impact of pharmacy deserts.

"Pharmacies are the front door to health care. It's not just the ability to fill your medications, your your prescriptions, to obtain your medications, but it's also a space where you can access several primary care services," said Salgado.

The study found 51 pharmacy deserts across the Commonwealth and identified 44 locations where adding a pharmacy would benefit more than 10,000.

“It's a starting point," said Salgado. "It really is some orientation to where do we begin? We're ready to roll up our sleeves. Where do we begin? These are the areas. Let's study these areas further. Let's see what would be the best options for these residents here."

Here in Central Virginia, the Fulton, North Highland Park and Manchester neighborhoods were included. Leaving residents in these neighborhoods with little to no access to medications and primary care services like testing and vaccinations.

Following the release of the study, researchers hope lawmakers will take action to better improve pharmacy care to Central Virginians.

"It is very unfortunate that we are not able to provide fair access to basic rights," said Salgado. "Um, but I also know that the legislature is working towards and acting upon these findings."

In the meantime, Dr. Salgado says short term options are available for neighbors like utilizing a mobile unit.