If you are tired of standing in long lines, paying high prices for your medications and dealing with a different pharmacist each time you fill a prescription, you may want to visit My HealthMart Pharmacy on 1015 Turquoise St., Suite #1.
Formerly known as Med-Rx up until about seven months ago, My HealthMart Pharmacy represents another industry falling victim to “big chain” store operations. In this case, it is the local neighborhood, independently owned pharmacy.
“We are the only independent pharmacy left in Pacific Beach,” said Mark DeWoskin, pharmacist and owner of My HealthMart. “There used to be four, but they have been all bought up by the big chains like CVS, Longs and so on.”
DeWoskin said his primary challenge as an independent pharmacy is not the chain pharmacies, but growing the business.
“Almost every person who tries us remains a customer because they like the services we provide,” he said. “But when people are bombarded in their mailboxes every week with flyers from the big chains which offer longer hours and drive through services, it is difficult to attract new customers.”
DeWoskin said part of the job is educating consumers on the misperception about the costs of prescription drugs, specifically the belief the big chains offer bargain prices compared to his operation.
“If you have insurance, your co-pay is going to be exactly the same regardless of where you go,” he said. “However, if you do not have insurance, our prices are going to be less expensive in part because I do not have the overhead costs of a large chain store. I have had patients come in who paid over a hundred dollars for a medication at a big chain pharmacy and my price for the same drug is $30.”
DeWoskin said part of the challenge of being a independent business owner in a competitive industry is fending off the offers from the corporations.
“They keep coming to me offering more and more money each time,” he said.
DeWoskin said he remains committed to maintaining his independent status and providing a service level not usually found in the big chain operations.
“We know the names of customers who come through our doors and I believe most people would like that type of service from their pharmacy,” he said. “For example, we offer home delivery service for only an additional $2.50. No other big chain pharmacy provides such service except for Longs, and they use a courier, which costs more and often means you have to wait at least a day to get your medications.”
My HealthMart can also accept prescription transfers and refills online.
Store hours are Mondays through Fridays from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The pharmacy is closed on Sundays.
For information call (858) 274-6762 or visit www.myhealthmartpharmacy.com.