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Bill

S 858

Resolve relative to pharmacy deserts

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Lydia Edwards

Massachusetts study to assess pharmacy access gaps in underserved areas and recommend solutions to improve medication availability for isolated communities.

Resolve reported favorably by committee and referred to the committee on Senate Ways and Means
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Bill Summary · S 858

Legislative bill overview

S 858 is a Massachusetts resolve that addresses "pharmacy deserts"—areas lacking adequate pharmacy access. The bill directs state agencies to study the extent and impact of pharmacy deserts in Massachusetts and develop solutions to improve medication access in underserved communities. This is a research and planning measure rather than direct legislation implementing specific policies.

Why is this important

Pharmacy deserts create significant public health challenges, particularly for elderly residents, rural communities, and those without reliable transportation who cannot access essential medications and pharmacy services. Inadequate pharmacy access can lead to delayed treatment, medication non-compliance, and worse health outcomes. Understanding the scope and causes of this problem is necessary to inform future policy interventions.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost of implementation: Solutions to expand pharmacy access (incentives for pharmacies to locate in underserved areas, mobile services, expanded delivery) may require substantial state funding or subsidies to participating providers
  • Defining "desert": Disagreement may arise over how to measure pharmacy access—distance thresholds, population density, service types, or insurance acceptance rates—which affects which areas qualify for assistance
  • Private vs. public solutions: Stakeholders may debate whether the state should incentivize private pharmacy expansion or establish public/nonprofit alternatives, with different cost and control implications

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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