Navigating a Pharmacy Desert: Where to Fill ’Scripts in the International District

by Shannon Yvonne Moreau

In the last few years, it’s become increasingly difficult for folks living in Albuquerque’s International District to get their medication. That’s because three major pharmacies have departed: CVS on Central and San Pedro, Walmart on San Mateo and Zuni, and Walgreens on San Mateo and Central. What’s left? In the words of City Desk ABQ’s recent reporting: “The low-income International District is now considered an urban ‘pharmacy desert,’ with more than 25,000 residents unable to access a pharmacy within a reasonable walking distance.”

UpLift Chronicles investigated pharmacies still open in or very close to the International District. Here’s our round-up.

Phil’s Pharmacy (locally owned)

Address: 5510 Lomas Blvd. NE

Nearest major cross streets: Lomas and San Mateo

Phone: (505) 265-6868

Website: philspharmacynm.com

Hours: Mon-Fri: 8am–6pm; Sat: 9am-12pm; Sun: Closed

Call ahead to see if they accept your insurance plan. Home delivery is available. COVID-19 vaccine not available.

Smith’s Pharmacy

Address: 6001 Lomas Blvd. NE

Nearest major cross streets: Lomas and San Pedro

Phone: (505) 266-7433

Website: smithsfoodanddrug.com/rx/pharmacy/details/706/00446?cid=loc_70600446P_gmb

Hours: Mon-Fri: 9am-8pm; Sat: 10am-6pm; Sun: 10am-5pm

Pharmacy Closed Daily for Lunch from 1-1:30pm

Call ahead to see if they accept your insurance plan. Home delivery is available. COVID-19 not available until fall.

John's Pharmacy (locally owned)

Address: 9134 Central Ave. SE

Nearest major cross streets: Central and Wyoming

Phone: (505) 299-6169

Website: johnspharmacyabq.com

Hours: Mon-Fri: 9am-6pm; Sat: 9am-2pm; Sun: Closed

Call ahead to see if they accept your insurance plan. Home delivery is available. COVID-19 vaccine not available until fall.

First Nations Community HealthSource (Zuni Clinic)

This pharmacy is available for existing First Nations patients. First Nations serves all people, regardless of “race, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, handicap, disability, medical condition or religion.” If you’re looking for a new doctor or primary care physician (PCP), call for an appointment or drop by.

Address: 5608 Zuni Rd. SE

Nearest major cross streets: Zuni and San Mateo

Phone: (505) 262-2481

Website: fnch.org

Hours: Mon-Fri: 8am-7pm; Sat: 8am-12pm; Sun: Closed

First Nations accepts pretty much all insurance plans, according to their website. Call to make an appointment for health care. COVID-19 vaccine not available.