By JESSICA LUTGENS
Contributing Writer
Despite rumors to the contrary, New Richland Drug will not be closing any time in the near future. However, there will be some changes due to increased pressure by Medicare D and other insurance plans to fill prescriptions by mail order and the decreased reimbursement to local pharmacies. Telepharmacy allows pharmacies to operate without a pharmacist in the store, and will be used at New Richland Drug in order for the pharmacy to remain in business. New and emergency prescriptions will continue to be filled in New Richland by Certified Pharmacy Technician Andrew, and a pharmacist will be physically present in the store once a week — usually on a Monday. On the days a pharmacist is not physically present in the store, customers will be given the opportunity to video conference with a real pharmacist where they can express any questions or concerns regarding their prescriptions.
If you currently have prescriptions with New Richland Drug, they will also continue to be filled here in New Richland. Prescription refills through the New Richland Care Center will now be filled through Curt’s Pharmacy and Curt’s LTC in Albert Lea.
Although this isn’t the most convenient solution for all the customers, it’s the only way to keep New Richland Drug running.
“I have looked at every expense that could be cut to keep it operating with a pharmacist in the store. The only way I can keep New Richland Drug open without going bankrupt is to operate as a Telepharmacy,” said Curt Clarambeau, owner and pharmacist of New Richland Drug. “By calling in a little early I think there should be no interruption of service on refill prescriptions. With the support of this community I believe we will be able to offer pharmacy services to New Richland for years to come.”
