New Pharmacy Opens in Downtown York to Improve Community Health

Addressing the Pharmacy Desert in York

Family First Pharmacy is preparing to open its doors by the end of September on South George Street in York, Pennsylvania. This new pharmacy aims to provide essential healthcare services and affordable medication to residents who have been affected by recent closures of chain pharmacies. The initiative is seen as a significant step forward for the community, offering much-needed support to those struggling with access to healthcare.

The concept of a "pharmacy desert" refers to areas where the nearest pharmacy is more than a mile away from a person's home or workplace. In York, the closure of several chain pharmacies has left many residents in this category. According to Family First Health, over 18% of occupied housing units in York City lack access to a car, making it even more challenging for individuals to reach pharmacies.

Jenny Englerth, president and CEO of Family First Health, emphasized the importance of this new pharmacy in addressing these challenges. “People are struggling with access to pharmacy services, particularly those who may not have easy transportation. We hope that this will be easier for people to access all the way around and will provide a high-quality service to the individuals that choose to use this pharmacy,” she said.

Local leaders have also recognized the significance of this development. Julie Wheeler, president commissioner of York County, noted that many pharmacies have closed not just in York but across the Commonwealth and the country. “This great access to medication is needed by the residents in our community,” she added.

Residents like Trezon Tiger, a York City resident, have shared their experiences with the recent closures. “I used to go to the Rite Aid down here on West Market. It’s good for people in the city to have access, especially people that don’t have cars, to be able to walk to a pharmacy, where they can get the prescriptions,” he said. However, he also mentioned that alternatives like Walmart or Target are located on either side of the main York area, requiring a drive.

Family First Pharmacy is expected to process about 400 prescriptions a day once fully operational. Dr. Jason Long, a representative from the pharmacy, expressed optimism about the impact this will have on the community. “We aim to bring, with the opening of this pharmacy, more equitable access to pharmacy services,” he said. “So, everyone can use this pharmacy. Our patients, community members, folks that work here in the city every day.”

The pharmacy will accept all insurances and, in some cases, offer discounts on medication costs. This commitment to affordability is a key aspect of the pharmacy’s mission. Family First Health is located at 116 S George St, York, PA 17401.

Community Impact and Future Prospects

The opening of Family First Pharmacy is not only a response to the current challenges but also a proactive measure to ensure long-term access to essential healthcare services. With the increasing number of pharmacy closures, initiatives like this are crucial for maintaining public health and well-being.

Community members have shown support for the new pharmacy, recognizing the value it brings to their daily lives. For those without reliable transportation, having a nearby pharmacy can make a significant difference in managing their health. Additionally, the availability of insurance coverage and potential discounts on medications ensures that the pharmacy is accessible to a wide range of individuals.

As the pharmacy prepares for its grand opening, it is clear that the community is eager for this new resource. The collaboration between local leaders, healthcare providers, and residents highlights the importance of collective efforts in addressing public health needs.

With its focus on accessibility, affordability, and quality care, Family First Pharmacy is poised to become a vital part of York’s healthcare landscape. Its success could serve as a model for other communities facing similar challenges, demonstrating how innovative solutions can make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.