CHILLICOTHE, Ohio — The Kroger store and pharmacy on Bridge Street in Chillicothe, Ohio, have been plunged into chaos as their phone lines remain down for the entire weekend. This ongoing issue has left pharmacists, doctors, hospitals, and patients stranded, unable to make critical communications that could mean the difference between life and death.
“It’s been a nightmare,” said a pharmacist at the Western Avenue sister store, who confirmed that the phone lines have been down “all weekend.” Despite the severe impact, no temporary solutions have been put in place. Calls are not being redirected, and even basic measures like using cell phones to communicate with the sister store have not been implemented.
The consequences of this oversight have been devastating. An out-of-state pharmacist, desperate to help a patient in a mental health crisis, recounted her frustration: “I was angry and helpless. I finally managed to reach someone at corporate who gave me a cell phone number for the pharmacist on duty. This is not how healthcare should work.”
For many, the situation has been nothing short of tragic. Elderly patients, often the most vulnerable, have been left without their essential medications. One mother, whose son desperately needed a prescription transfer, spoke through tears. “I was at my wit’s end. My son needed his medication, and I had no way to get through to the pharmacy. I was ready to call the police to go there and get someone to help us.”
The human cost of this communication breakdown has been profound. Patients in need of life-saving medications have faced delays and uncertainty, causing unimaginable stress and anxiety. The community is left wondering why more wasn’t done to prevent this disaster and ensure that such a critical service remains accessible.
As of Sunday afternoon, the issue persisted into a third day without any solution or temporary fix. Calls to the service desk for comment on this story from management went unanswered because their lines were down, as well.
As the situation continues, the demand for answers and solutions grows louder. When will the phone lines be restored? How will Kroger ensure this never happens again? For the people of Chillicothe, these questions are not just about convenience—they’re about survival.