PHARMACEUTICAL PROVISION IN RURAL SPAIN: ITS ROLE IN THE FIGHT AGAINST DEPOPULATION

One of the many disadvantages faced by rural municipalities, particularly those with a smaller population or micro-municipalities, is the lack of pharmacies or, where they do exist, their lack of continuity or permanence. This reality contrasts with the undeniable fact that the existence of open pharmacies contributes to population fixation and, therefore, constitutes a relevant factor in the fight against depopulation. This study examines the determining causes of the precarious establishment of pharmacies in the aforementioned municipalities, while at the same time attempting to provide a sort of statistical x-ray of their distribution throughout the country. It also analyses the regulatory and administrative measures aimed at encouraging pharmacies with more uncertain economic profitability to remain open. It then goes on to analyse the terms in which pharmaceutical provision is seen as an effective measure against depopulation and the strategies with which it is intended to reinforce this provision. Finally, some proposals are made that could perhaps have an impact on the improvement of pharmaceutical provision in rural areas and, ultimately, on the protection of the health of their inhabitants.