Examination of Pharmacy Accessibility in Two Racially Diverse Metropolitan Areas: Development of a Pharmacy Access Model Using Multiple Discriminant Analysis

Abstract

Prior research has shown disparities in pharmacy access related to race/ethnicity, income, and other sociodemographic factors. There is currently no consistent definition of low pharmacy access and there is no federal designation for areas underserved by pharmacies. The purpose of this study was to expand on prior pharmacy accessibility research and develop a conceptual model of pharmacy access in selected racially diverse urban areas of the United States. Through the application of geographic information software (GIS) mapping, the enhanced two-step floating catchment area (E2SFCA) methodology, and multiple discriminant analysis, the pharmacy landscape and relative pharmacy access were qualitatively and quantitatively described for the study areas. Models of pharmacy access based on distance and travel time were also derived. Pharmacy access varied by racial composition. Factors most influential to pharmacy access included socioeconomic position, transportation use, and population vulnerability.