As Rite Aid closes multiple locations across Southwestern Pennsylvania, many customers are seeking guidance on how to manage their prescriptions.
Giant Eagle will take over prescription services for 78 Rite Aid stores in Pennsylvania and Ohio, beginning this June.
What Happened
Rite Aid recently filed for bankruptcy again and announced plans to close several locations in Southwestern Pennsylvania.
To continue serving customers, Giant Eagle has agreed to take over prescription transfers from 78 Rite Aid stores set to close.
The transition will occur in phases throughout June, with the first 30 transfers expected to complete by the end of next week.
Giant Eagle will also assume operations of the physical pharmacies at two Rite Aid locations, though the specific stores have not been disclosed.
Key Details
- Prescription records from closing Rite Aid stores will automatically transfer to the nearest Giant Eagle pharmacy on the effective transfer date.
- Customers who prefer a different Giant Eagle location can request transfers there.
- Those wishing to avoid Giant Eagle can transfer their prescriptions to another pharmacy before or after the transfer date.
- Giant Eagle is expanding its pharmacy staff, including hiring some former Rite Aid employees, and extending pharmacy hours to accommodate increased demand.
- Giant Eagle is proactively contacting affected customers to inform them about the upcoming changes.
Reactions or Statements
Mary Castillenti, a customer from O’Hara Township, expressed frustration about the Rite Aid closure but took early action to transfer her prescriptions.
“It’s like one more thing,” she said. “I just want to make sure it goes to where I want it to go.”
Jannah Drexler, a Giant Eagle spokesperson, emphasized the company’s commitment to a smooth transition:
“Their prescription information must have another designated home due to regulatory reasons.
We’re really trying to make this as smooth a transition as possible for them.”
Investigation or What’s Next
It remains unclear which retailers will take over prescriptions from the other Rite Aid locations closing in the region that are not part of the Giant Eagle deal.
Customers are encouraged to contact their local Rite Aid or Giant Eagle pharmacies directly to confirm transfer details and explore options if they wish to switch providers.
FAQs
Q: Do I need to do anything to transfer my prescription to Giant Eagle?
A: If you are comfortable with the transfer, no action is needed. Your prescription will automatically move to the nearest Giant Eagle pharmacy.
Q: Can I transfer my prescription to a different Giant Eagle location?
A: Yes, you can request your prescription to be transferred to any Giant Eagle pharmacy you prefer.
Q: What if I don’t want to use Giant Eagle?
A: You can transfer your prescription to a different pharmacy either before the transfer date via Rite Aid or after the transfer via Giant Eagle.
Q: Will Giant Eagle extend pharmacy hours to accommodate more customers?
A: Yes, Giant Eagle plans to extend hours at many locations and hire additional staff, including some former Rite Aid employees.
Q: Which Rite Aid stores will Giant Eagle physically take over?
A: Two Rite Aid locations will be converted to Giant Eagle pharmacies, but the exact stores have not yet been announced.
Summary / Final Takeaway
With Rite Aid closing numerous stores in Southwestern Pennsylvania, Giant Eagle is stepping in to take over prescription services at 78 locations starting in June 2025.
Customers will benefit from automatic prescription transfers but should review their options if they prefer other pharmacies.
Giant Eagle is committed to ensuring a smooth transition through staff expansion and communication efforts.
