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Kempson Rexall Drugstore: A Community Lifeline in Inman, South Carolina

Inman, South Carolina — Since its establishment in 1905, the Kempson Rexall drugstore has been an integral part of the Inman community, which has a population of approximately 3,200 residents. Given that the nearest hospital is a half-hour journey away, many locals often turn to this pharmacy for immediate healthcare needs.

Owner and pharmacist Marianne McElveen emphasizes the significance of the store, stating, “This store means the world to this community.” She notes the unwavering loyalty of their customers, who appreciate the personal touch and dedicated service they receive.

However, like numerous independent pharmacies across the nation, Kempson Rexall faces significant challenges. According to a report by the Associated Press, over 7,000 pharmacies in the United States have shut their doors since 2019, with approximately half of those being independently owned establishments.

McElveen describes the difficult adjustments the store has had to make to survive, including reducing operating hours. “We’ve had to make some changes, doing anything we can to stay alive and to keep the doors open,” she said, reflecting on the stressful circumstances that have caused her many sleepless nights.

Even large pharmacy chains are experiencing financial turmoil. For instance, Walgreens disclosed an $8 billion loss in its last fiscal year, highlighting a broader trend affecting the industry.

Lori Trudell, a professor at Clemson University, indicates that the closure of pharmacies in rural areas is leading to the emergence of pharmacy deserts, diminishing access to healthcare services. “When you think about the thousands of pharmacies in rural communities that are closing, you’re losing access to all healthcare,” she remarked.

Inside Kempson Rexall, the pharmacy’s profit margins have significantly decreased, now falling between 3% and 5%. McElveen points out the financial strain brought on by the high costs of brand-name medications, saying, “We fill those and may not be reimbursed even at our cost for those drugs.”

According to projections from the National Community Pharmacists Association, an average of more than one independent pharmacy is expected to close every day in 2024. McElveen expresses her sorrow at this trend, stating, “It’s sad to me that that part of America, that part of business, would go away. We’re not gonna throw in the towel. We’re in it for the long haul.”

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