Kroger Health Encourages National Prescription Drug Take Back Day
Event made possible with support from the Cardinal Health Foundation
CINCINNATI / — Kroger Health, the healthcare division of The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR), is announcing its participation in the Drug Enforcement Administration's National Prescription Drug Take Back Day. This event offers a vital service for individuals wishing to properly dispose of expired or unused prescription medications at select local pharmacies.
For over a decade, National Prescription Drug Take Back Day has played a critical role in helping residents across the nation eliminate unnecessary medications safely. This initiative is essential not only for safeguarding lives but also for ensuring the health and safety of our communities and environment.
Colleen Lindholz, president of Kroger Health, expresses pride in contributing to community safety. "This day provides a helpful avenue for people to dispose of their unused medications, fostering healthier home environments. It aligns perfectly with Kroger Health's vision of enhancing lives for healthier living,” she stated.
Additionally, Jessie Cannon, president of the Cardinal Health Foundation, emphasized the importance of medication disposal. “Our collaboration with Kroger Health for National Prescription Drug Take Back Day signifies our commitment to health equity. By providing a secure method for disposing of unwanted medications, we aim to educate people and promote safer communities,” she noted.
The drug take back events will occur from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. local time at participating pharmacies. Law enforcement officials will be available on site to accept a variety of unwanted medications, including pills, liquids, gels, and patches (the acceptance of some items may vary by location). To find participating locations, a complete list of drug take back event sites will be provided.
Kroger Health, with support from the Cardinal Health Foundation, has successfully hosted these drug take back events since 2018, leading to the collection of over 220,000 pounds of unwanted or expired medications. The initiative has served upwards of 86,000 community members, reinforcing the importance of safe medication disposal.
About Kroger Health
Kroger Health is one of the leading retail healthcare organizations in the United States, catering to more than 17 million patients each year. The Kroger Family of Pharmacies operates over 2,200 pharmacies across 35 states, and The Little Clinic provides telehealth services in nine states, along with more than 220 in-person clinics in eight states. With a dedicated team of 23,000 healthcare professionals, Kroger Health is committed to the philosophy of "food as medicine," aiming to prevent illness and promote health for all.
About Cardinal Health
Cardinal Health is a key distributor of pharmaceuticals and specialty products, offering various healthcare solutions including home-health products. Their commitment to improvement and innovation helps enhance health outcomes, and the Cardinal Health Foundation focuses on advancing health equity through philanthropic efforts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the National Prescription Drug Take Back Day?
It is an event that provides a safe way for individuals to dispose of unused or expired medications, thereby promoting community health and safety.
When will the drug take back events take place?
The events will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. local time at participating local pharmacies.
Who will be accepting the medications during the event?
Law enforcement officers will be present to accept unwanted or expired medications outside participating stores.
Can I dispose of liquids and gels at the event?
Yes, but the acceptance of liquids, gels, and patches may vary by location.
How many pounds of medication have been collected in past events?
Since 2018, Kroger Health has collected over 220,000 pounds of unwanted medications through these events.
