A ribbon cutting in Albion today brings a new Colonial Family Pharmacy one step closer to opening. It comes as rural pharmacies continue to disappear nationwide.
At Wednesday morning’s ribbon cutting in Albion, LECOM Health highlighted why opening a new pharmacy matters now more than ever.
“this is very important because the closest pharmacy was 10 to 12 miles” said Doctor Bodosky, a physician at Northwestern Area Health Center in Albion.
During the event, leaders paused to bless the pharmacy — asking that the staff and facility provide the best care possible to the patients who will rely on it.
The ceremony marked the launch of Colonial Family Pharmacy’s newest site at 210 East State Street. In January of 2024, Albion’s only pharmacy closed, leaving residents in limbo and facing new burdens.
“Medical professionals say this is opening at a crucial time, as rural pharmacies disappear nationwide, making access to basic medications more difficult for small communities” Stephanie Logue reported.
“Elderly population, we have elderly housing in town that they cannot get to the pharmacy. The pharmacy closing in town was very detrimental to them.” Bodosky shared.
“Some residents had to travel to Edinboro, Girard, and even Erie for prescription refills” Marcus Babiak, the Chief Operating Officer at LECOM shared.
Staff say the goal is simple: keep care close to home. As more rural pharmacies shut down due to rising costs and staffing shortages, Colonial Family Pharmacy is expected to open soon.
We’ll keep you updated as LECOM Health announces an official opening date.