Pharmacies and Prescriptions

6/6/25: Press Release - Mass Retail Pharmacy Closings Prompt Safety Messages, Practical Advice from Erie County

Nearly 70 Rite Aid pharmacy locations are closing in Western New York in June 2025. The Erie County Department of Health, Erie County Department of Mental Health and local pharmacists are sharing important safety advice and practical recommendations to patients who need to transfer their prescriptions to a different pharmacy, and to healthcare providers. 

Much like “food deserts,” neighborhoods and communities that lose a pharmacy lose convenient access to prescription medication and pharmacy services like consultations, over-the-counter medicine and vaccines. 

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.

Searchable online map of pharmacies in Erie County (updated June 2025)

Spreadsheet of pharmacies listed by City/Town (PDF)

Printable map of pharmacies in Erie County (PDF)
(updated June 11, 2025)

1. 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.

2. Transfer Your Prescriptions Promptly

• Ask your doctor or prescriber to send new prescriptions directly to your new pharmacy.  
• 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.

3. Bring Your Insurance Card

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

4. 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.

5. 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.

6. 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.

7. 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.

8. 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. 

9. Be Patient! 

1. Prescribe 90-Day Supplies

• For patients taking medications for chronic conditions (maintenance medications) prescribe a 90-day supply when possible.  
• A 90-day supply can reduce pharmacy visits, improve adherence, and minimize refill issues during transition.  
• Even if insurance only allows for a 30-day supply, the remaining months will typically be added on as refills.

2. Expect Refill and Transfer Requests

• Be prepared for increased calls regarding prescription refills or transfers due to pharmacy closures.  
• Proactively ask patients to identify their new pharmacy and assist with sending new prescriptions if needed.  
• Some offices have sent mass portal messages to notify patients and streamline the transition process

3. Update Medication Lists

• During transitions of care, conduct a brief medication reconciliation to confirm accuracy.
• Encourage patients to bring an updated medication list to the office.

4. Consider Access & Delivery Challenges

• For patients with limited mobility or transportation, recommend pharmacies that offer home delivery or curbside pickup.  
• Patients may need assistance with setting this up. Consider if the patient has access to a care worker.
• Be aware that not all pharmacies offer these services. 

5. Educate and Reassure Patients

• Acknowledge that pharmacy changes can be stressful, especially for older adults, caregivers, or those on multiple medications.
• Encourage patients to call their insurance provider if they experience issues with refills or prescription transfers or obtaining their medication.

6. Be Patient!