Shortage of Pharmacists Causes CVS and Walmart to Cut Pharmacy Hours

An ongoing pharmacist shortage has forced CVS and Walmart to alter pharmacy hours.

The Wall Street Journal reported that CVS has plans to cut or alter pharmacy hours at two-thirds of its locations throughout the U.S. by March. As for Walmart, by March, the retailer plans to close its pharmacies two hours early at most locations.

The changes from CVS and Walmart are proof that pharmacies are still struggling to recover after being overwhelmed during the pandemic. According to FOX, “More than a year ago, pharmacies started to become overwhelmed due to the rush of vaccines and virus tests coupled with a busy flu season, and in many cases had to temporarily close if staff weren’t available.”

Pharmacies have had to take steps to address pharmacist burnout and staffing shortages. Walgreens has had to adjust store hours, as well as increase pay and take measures to reduce workload, the company told FOX.