Having spent an extended amount of time in Walgreens today, I have decided that the modern pharmacy is the most ironic/contradictory invention that American capitalism has ever created (I'm not knocking capitalism, just saying...). A pharmacy, as I understand it, is a place where sick people go to get their prescriptions filled so they can take medicine that will make them better, or at least less sick. Unfortunately, very often it's the pharmacies and pharmaceutical companies themselves that stand to benefit the most, not sick people. Turns out, a balanced diet and regular exercise are prescriptions that don't earn pharmaceutical companies much money. The allure of a quick fix (a magic pill, so to speak), however, has the power to turn a generous profit. Furthermore, have you ever considered the "food" that is sold at pharmacies such as Walgreens or CVS? The grocery aisle looks remarkably similar to the convenience food-mart found along side many gas stations. Junk food galore! But it's cheaply made food sold at a premium price. Again, profit seems to win over making people healthy. But as long as people continue to buy unhealthy food they are more likely to continue filling their medical prescriptions at the local pharmacy. It's a vicious cycle, but it's one that undoubtedly generates a lot of revenue for the modern American pharmacy.
3 comments:
I echo your dissatisfaction with the pharmaceutical companies and their ability to profit from the poor in a society that makes it easy to stay sick and too difficult to get well. But pharmacies as a place to find cures to that which ails us are a thing of yesteryear. They are now simply convenience stores that offer prescriptions, often in lesser abundance than Christmas decorations, make-up, film, and greeting cards.
Suzanne, thanks for your comment!
I had to go back to Walgreens today (don't ask why), and noticed something new. Behind the primary register is a wall of cigarettes. And right next to the wall of cigarettes... a smaller, yet substantial section dedicated to all the drugs you can imagine to stop smoking. This is crazy! Walgreens might as well be selling guns and coffins! Right next to each other, no less!
Or bacon next to portabale difribillators. is there such a thing as a portable difribillator? If so, I guarantee you the NEXT TIME you go to walgreens you'll see that display.
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