Advice From Your Doctor at OFHC: Which Pharmacy Should You Use?
A recent commentary by Dr. Sohail Gandhi, former president of the Ontario Medical Association, asked an important question:
“Which pharmacy should you use?”
His answer was clear: patients deserve better than rushed, corporate-driven care.
At Orleans Family Health Clinic (OFHC), we couldn’t agree more.
Why Pharmacy Choice Matters More Than Ever
Recent data from J.D. Power showed a significant drop in customer satisfaction with brick-and-mortar pharmacies. While the survey was conducted in the U.S., the pressures are familiar in Canada:
- Health human resource shortages
- Pharmacist burnout
- Drug shortages
- Corporate performance quotas
- Increased pressure to bill for services
At OFHC, we echo Dr. Gandhi’s key point:
A pharmacist is not a retail clerk. A pharmacist is an essential member of your healthcare team.
The Problem With “Big Box” Pharmacy Models
Large chain pharmacies—such as Shoppers Drug Mart—operate under corporate mandates that prioritize revenue targets. Reports covered by CBC News and the Toronto Star have highlighted concerns including:
- Pressure to meet service quotas
- Rushed minor ailment assessments
- Inadequate staffing support
- High pharmacist turnover
- Emphasis on billable medication reviews
When corporate targets dominate workflow, patient-centred care can suffer.
Dr. Gandhi describes a common frustration: prescriptions written for a full year being processed incorrectly, resulting in unnecessary delays. These system failures disrupt continuity of care and put patients at risk.
What Patients Actually Need From a Pharmacy
At OFHC, we recommend patients seek pharmacies that provide:
Consistency
Seeing the same pharmacist regularly ensures care informed by familiarity with your medical history—not just a computer screen.
Clinical Vigilance
Pharmacists should actively monitor:
- Drug interactions
- Dose appropriateness
- Specialist medication changes
- Adverse reactions
Direct Collaboration With Physicians
Our integrated care approach means pharmacists maintain strong, proactive communication with physicians—so patient care is coordinated, not reactive.
Individualized Medication Planning
Stable patients shouldn’t face unnecessary renewal barriers. Proper refill management, medication synchronization, and long-term planning are essential.
Red Flags When Choosing a Pharmacy
Be cautious if:
- The pharmacy primarily functions as a grocery or department store
- Staff turnover is high
- You see a different pharmacist every visit
- The environment feels rushed or transactional
- Loyalty “points” are emphasized over clinical advice
Healthcare is not a retail transaction.
Why Independent, Integrated Care Matters
Pharmacies integrated with OFHC are different because they are:
- Independently operated
- Clinically aligned with our care teams
- Focused on relationship-based care
- Committed to Complete, Comprehensive, Caring, and Connected Care
Pharmacists are not pressured by corporate quotas. They focus on safe, individualized patient care, working hand-in-hand with OFHC physicians to support the overall health of you and your family.
The Bottom Line
Your pharmacy should:
- Know your name
- Know your medications
- Know your medical history
- Communicate with your doctor
- Protect you from medication errors
- Advocate for your health
If your pharmacy feels rushed, impersonal, or profit-driven, you deserve better.
At OFHC, we practice healthcare—not retail.
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Disclaimer: The medical information on this site is provided as an information resource only and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. This information does not substitute for professional diagnosis and treatment. Please do not initiate, modify, or discontinue any treatment, medication, or supplement solely based on this information. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider first. Full Disclaimer.
