Wayne State University pharmacy eviction: what it means for students and Detroit residents

In March 2024 Wayne State University served an eviction notice to the University Pharmacy, a key on-campus provider. The notice arrived without a clear public reason, and many people who relied on the pharmacy now face sudden gaps in care. If you or someone you know used that pharmacy, there are steps to take right now to avoid missed doses or lost records.

Immediate steps to protect your meds and records

First, check your current prescriptions. Do you have enough supply to last two to four weeks? If not, call your prescriber and ask for an emergency refill or a short extension. Many clinics will help if you explain the eviction situation.

Second, transfer your prescriptions early. Most chain pharmacies (CVS, Walgreens, Rite Aid) and local community pharmacies accept transfers quickly. Ask the new pharmacy to request your profile and refill history so you don’t lose important information.

Third, get copies of your medication records and immunization history. Contact your prescriber or student health services to request electronic records. Keep a digital or printed copy until your medication care is stable.

Where to go for alternative care in Detroit

Look for nearby options: chain pharmacies, hospital outpatient pharmacies, and community health centers can fill most prescriptions. If you use specialty meds, call your insurance or specialty pharmacy for guidance — they often coordinate transfers for complex drugs.

If cost is a concern, ask about generic alternatives, patient assistance programs, or sliding-scale clinics. The Detroit Health Department and local community clinics can point you to low-cost services and free vaccination sites.

For controlled substances, expect extra steps. New written prescriptions or identity checks may be required. Contact your doctor quickly to avoid interruption.

If you’re a student, contact student health services, your academic adviser, or the student government. They can push the university administration for temporary solutions and help communicate with affected patients.

Consider filing a report with the Michigan Board of Pharmacy if you believe the closure affected safety or licensing rules. You can also contact local elected officials and community groups to raise the issue publicly — media attention often speeds up solutions.

This eviction affects more than convenience. Losing a campus pharmacy can interrupt chronic disease care, vaccinations, and medication counseling. Acting now — transferring prescriptions, securing records, and asking for emergency refills — reduces risk and keeps care on track.

Need a quick checklist? 1) Verify supply and get emergency refills. 2) Transfer prescriptions to a new pharmacy. 3) Secure medical and immunization records. 4) Contact student health and insurance for support. 5) Explore community clinics and patient assistance programs.

Questions about what to do next? Reach out to your prescriber, student health services, or local pharmacy for help. If you want, share specifics and I can suggest practical next steps based on your situation.