Nearly $25 million will go to 434 Illinois pharmacies in the first distribution of funds from the program established under last year’s law to regulate pharmacy benefit managers. [Health News Illinois] 

The program is designed to assist pharmacies most at risk of closure or financial strain, specifically those in rural and low-income communities with high Medicaid populations and with fewer than 10 locations.

“With pharmacies facing growing financial pressures, Illinois is stepping up to strengthen and support these critical providers and ensure working families across the state continue to receive the care they rely on close to home,” Gov. JB Pritzker said in a statement.

Every eligible pharmacy will receive $56,892. The funds can be used to support existing operations, as well as initiatives such as expanded pharmacy hours, telepharmacy services, remote consultations, and medication delivery to help residents overcome barriers to care.

The program is administered by the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity and the Illinois Retail Merchants Association.

“Community pharmacies are vital to the healthcare system, especially in rural and underserved communities across the state,” said IRMA CEO Rob Karr. “IRMA is proud to partner with Gov. Pritzker and DCEO to support Illinois pharmacies as they continue providing medications, vaccinations and trusted care.”

See the full list of recipients here.

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