Columnist Examines Group's Effort to Urge CVS to Keep All Condoms Unlocked in Stores

Tennessean columnist Getahn Ward examined the "Cure CVS: Unlock the Condoms Initiative," led by the group Change to Win, which claims that the pharmacy chain's practice of locking up some condoms in certain neighborhoods might decrease access for young adults and minorities, potentially increasing their risk of HIV and unintended pregnancy. CVS contends that the practice is used as a theft deterrent but said it does have some condoms available that are not locked up. Officials from Walgreens say their stores do not lock up condoms, and Rite Aid officials say they do not have a specific policy in place, but access to some personal items, including condoms, does require the assistance of an associate at stores with much theft (Ward, Tennessean, 6/17).

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