HUNTSVILLE, Ala. - The U.S. Postal Service announced some big changes on Monday, which could have a far-reaching impact on both individuals and businesses right here in the Valley.
Among other cuts, the USPS announced the end of next-day deliveries for first class mail. This causes concern for many who receive their prescription medications by mail, including Huntsville resident Candy Clark.
Clark fears, “If it comes late, and it's my diabetic medication or my nebulizer medicine, it could put me into a diabetic coma or it could put me in the hospital on a breathing machine."
And she could soon be in a bind, as the Postal Service just announced the end of the overnight service she depends on. Right now, 42% of all first class mail is delivered the very next day, so that means big changes for many like her.
Clark says, "I would really be affected if they change it and I can't get my medication on time."
The impact of losing overnight delivery would be particularly significant for those who rely on medications like insulin that need to stay below a certain temperature during shipment. Propst Pharmacy Manager Brett Enabnit says, “They use a cold packet, they can only guarantee it for so long."
Although some drugs could still be sent overnight through higher class postage or private carriers, it's a cost not all customers want to bear. Still, Enabnit says many are already switching for better reliability: "I see a lot now, when I talk to other people that get their stuff mail order, they get it through different carriers, either FedEx or UPS, a lot more expensive. I'd probably say 10% to 15% more, minimum."
The cuts announced will save the USPS $3 billion, which the Postmaster General says is necessary to keep the agency from going under.
Outside medical needs, the end of overnight delivery would also slow check payments. It could also threaten time-sensitive newspapers and magazines, as well as mail order DVD services like Netflix.
In addition to the cuts announced Monday, the U.S. Postal Service is waiting for Congress to give it approval for more changes, including raising stamp prices and ending Saturday mail service.
