Press Releases
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - August 30, 2010
THE APOTHECARY SHOPS ACQUIRES GREATER SACRAMENTO SPECIALTY PHARMACY; INCREASES REACH AND
CUSTOMER BASE IN UNITED STATES
CONTACT:
Julie Mystrom, Marketing Director, The Apothecary Shops, - (623) 742-1709
Steve Carr, The Kur Carr Group, Inc., - (602) 317-3040
PHOENIX, Ariz. (Aug. 30, 2010): The Apothecary Shops, a Phoenix-based chain of specialty pharmacies with 16 locations in six states, has acquired the Greater Sacramento Specialty Pharmacy (GSP), a customer-service focused pharmacy with primary specialties in oncology and pain management.
GSP, which provides services to patients and practitioners in California, Oregon, Nevada, Washington, Idaho and Montana, will be a wholly-owned subsidiary of The Apothecary Shops and will continue operating under the Greater Sacramento Specialty Pharmacy name. The sales price was not disclosed.
Previous owner and pharmacist Tim Le, Pharm.D. will remain on full time in the role of GSP general manager.
“Greater Sacramento Pharmacy is a significant player in the specialty pharmacy market with a business model very similar to The Apothecary Shops. We have had our eye on GSP for some time, both as a competitor and a potential acquisition,” said Apothecary Shops President Keith Cook. “GSP maintains a very high emphasis on customer service to their patients and physician providers and there is a tremendous synergy between the two companies that will be increasingly valuable as we move forward with the integration.”
The acquisition of GSP adds a substantial volume of oncology specialty business to The Apothecary Shops.
Cook said the acquisition “is strategically important for our growth both geographically and tactically as we continue to aggressively look for opportunities to expand our presence throughout the United States.”
The Apothecary Shops recently opened retail operations in Los Angeles, St. Louis, Mo., Albuquerque, N.M. and Las Vegas. Last year, The Apothecary Shops expanded its state-of-the-art mail order fulfillment center in Phoenix to 21,000 square feet, allowing the company to generate sales in all 50 states.
Founded in 1996 and independently owned, The Apothecary Shops had one of the first pharmacies in the nation to earn Pharmacy Compounding Accrediting Board (PCAB) accreditation.
For more information about The Apothecary Shops, visit www.theapothecaryshops.com.
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About The Apothecary Shops
The Apothecary Shops is one of the foremost chain of independent full-service pharmacies with specialties in infectious disease, veterinary medicine, oncology, ophthalmology, fertility, pain management, women’s health, transplant, compounding and sports health. A National Specialty Pharmacy, The Apothecary Shops has provided individualized care and support to patients since 1996. The clinical pharmacists and staff members are experts in managing complex disease states and providing compassionate care. The Apothecary Shops offer a nationwide specialty mail-order service to complement 17 physical practices. For more information, visit www.theapothecaryshop.com.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - April 28, 2010
THE APOTHECARY SHOPS PROJECTING $1.2 MILLION IN SALES AT NEW 2000 SQUARE FOOT PHARMACY;
COMPANY’S 17TH IN 7 STATES
Company Launches 7-State Initiative to Help Hepatitis B & C Patients Stay on Their Meds St.
CONTACT:
Eric Sredzinski, Pharm.D., AAHIVE, VP of Clinical Affairs - (623) 238-7072
Julie Mystrom, Marketing Director, The Apothecary Shops, - (623) 742-1709
Steve Carr, The Kur Carr Group, Inc., - (602) 317-3040
ST. LOUIS, Mo. (April 28, 2010): The Apothecary Shops, a Phoenix-based chain of independent full-service pharmacies, is projecting sales of $1.2 million for 2010 at its first pharmacy in the Midwestern states and 17th in seven states.
The 2,000 square foot pharmacy, located at 4008 Wedgeway Court in Earth City, reflects the company’s aggressive growth strategy to gain a foothold in new markets.
“As the first location in the Midwest, our geographic footprint now extends to the Mississippi River,” said Apothecary Shops President Keith Cook. “Our expansion decisions are based on intensive market research that points to regions with strong growth factors. St. Louis certainly fits those parameters.”
The Apothecary Shops, which acquired the property in March, operates a business strategy based on 10 areas of specialty. The Earth City location will focus on specialties including fertility, oncology, transplantation, pain management, HIV, compounding, women’s health and veterinary medicine. Rebecca Hefele, R.Ph. is the managing pharmacist.
In addition to regular pharmacy services, the Earth City location also will be part of The Apothecary Shops’ seven-state program created and designed to increase treatment success for Hepatitis B and C patients.
Pharmacists will provide counseling, depression screening and injection training and maintain ongoing contact with patients and their physicians. The program is free for patients. The Apothecary Shop launched the effort last week.
Among regular services also provided at every Apothecary Shop location is 24-hour-a-day contact with a pharmacist for patient questions and concerns as well as ongoing and regular communications between the pharmacy and physicians regarding therapy adherence and tolerance for any prescribed medications.
The Apothecary Shops corporate team also includes Pharmaceutical Care Experts, Certified Menopausal Educators and Compounding Experts.
The Apothecary Shops recently purchased and renovated pharmacies in both Los Angeles and Las Vegas. In addition, the company completed construction of a 5,000 square foot clean room and opened a new 21,000 state-of-the-art mail-order fulfillment center, both in Phoenix.
For more information about The Apothecary Shops, visit www.theapothecaryshops.com.
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About The Apothecary Shops
The Apothecary Shops is one of the foremost chain of independent full-service pharmacies with specialties in infectious disease, veterinary medicine, oncology, ophthalmology, fertility, pain management, women’s health, transplant, compounding and sports health. A National Specialty Pharmacy, The Apothecary Shops has provided individualized care and support to patients since 1996. The clinical pharmacists and staff members are experts in managing complex disease states and providing compassionate care. The Apothecary Shops offer a nationwide specialty mail-order service to complement 17 physical practices. For more information, visit www.theapothecaryshop.com.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - April 22, 2010
THE APOTHECARY SHOPS LAUNCHES 7-STATE INITIATIVE TO KEEP HEPATITIS B AND C PATIENTS ON MEDS, IMPROVE OUTCOMES
High Touch Service Includes Scheduled Contact, Side Effect Counseling, Depression ScreeningCONTACT:
Eric Sredzinski, Pharm.D., AAHIVE, VP of Clinical Affairs, - (623) 238-7072
Julie Mystrom, Marketing Director, The Apothecary Shops, - (623) 742-1709
Steve Carr, The Kur Carr Group, Inc., - (602) 317-3040
PHOENIX, Ariz. (April 22, 2010): The Apothecary Shops has launched a pilot program at all 17 specialty pharmacies in seven states to increase treatment success for Hepatitis B and C patients through ongoing contact with patients and their physicians, counseling, depression screening and even injection training.
“Viral hepatitis is the leading cause of liver cancer and the most common reason for liver transplantation,” said Eric Sredzinski, Pharm.D. and manager of the initiative for The Apothecary Shops. “If we can touch the patient when their therapy starts and keep them adherent to therapy, we can improve outcomes. Ensuring that they use the medications in the correct way and by providing them with the right tools and consistent contact, we can help drive a sustained virological response.”
Roughly 1.2 million Americans suffer from Hepatitis B and 3.2 million from Hepatitis C “and many more don’t even know they’re infected,” Sredzinski said. “Our goal is to be hands-on, provide the patients with 24-hour access to a pharmacist and work closely with their physicians.”
With 10 specialty practices that include solid organ transplant and oncology, “this effort really fits into the disease specialties we’re managing now. At the same time, we’re looking to work with our manufacturers and our payers to demonstrate that having a high-touch relationship with patients and their physicians can actually produce positive outcomes. If a patient responds to treatment, overall healthcare costs will decrease.”
Hepatitis dosage regimens are based on the type of virus and can range in length from six months to a year.
Through the program, an Apothecary Shops’ pharmacist will have an initial consultation and then contact the patient at scheduled intervals to answer questions and address concerns. A second call will be made 24 days after the prescription is filled and then once a month “as a reminder for another healthcheck,” Sredzinski said. “The second call will lead to a fairly comprehensive adverse event string that will go through different side effects.” Consultation notes also will be communicated back to the treating physician.
Side effects can include fatigue, weight loss, mouth sores, rashes and mood swings to mention a few. The Apothecary Shops also will provide depression screening and injection training to “instruct them where to inject and how to inject.” Evening injections can minimize adverse responses, he said.
Any Hepatitis B or C patient, whether they get medications from The Apothecary Shops or another pharmacy can take advantage of the free program.
“If they are not receiving their medications from The Apothecary Shops, we’re willing to work with patients, with their clinicians approval, to give them a one-time consultation,” Sredzinksi said. “They can come into The Apothecary Shops and we’ll review their medications with them. If they want to stay with whom they’re working, that’s fine. If they would like to get the medications from us, we can work with them and their insurance companies.”
For more information about The Apothecary Shops, visit www.theapothecaryshops.com.
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About The Apothecary Shops
The Apothecary Shops is one of the foremost chain of independent full-service pharmacies with specialties in infectious disease, veterinary medicine, oncology, ophthalmology, fertility, pain management, women’s health, transplant, compounding and sports health. A National Specialty Pharmacy, The Apothecary Shops has provided individualized care and support to patients since 1996. The clinical pharmacists and staff members are experts in managing complex disease states and providing compassionate care. The Apothecary Shops offer a nationwide specialty mail-order service to complement 17 physical practices. For more information, visit www.theapothecaryshop.com.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - March 3, 2010
THE APOTHECARY SHOPS’ LOS ANGELES PHARMACY LOOKS TO MORE THAN DOUBLE SALES IN 2010
Pharmacy Acquired In January 2009 Projects Sales of $2 Million-Plus
CONTACT:
Julie Mystrom, Marketing Director, The Apothecary Shops, (623) 742-1709
Steve Carr, The Kur Carr Group, Inc., (602) 317-3040
LOS ANGELES, Calif. (March 3, 2010): The Apothecary Shops, which purchased, renovated and reopened the former Horton & Converse Pharmacy at 325 N. Larchmont Blvd. during the first quarter of 2009, expects to more than double sales in 2010 through concentrated focus on specialty areas including HIV, compounding, fertility, pain, transplant and oncology.
Based in Phoenix, The Apothecary Shops is an independent chain of full-service pharmacies with specialties in veterinary medicine, infectious disease, oncology, ophthalmology, fertility, pain management, women’s health, transplant, compounding and sports health. The Los Angeles pharmacy is the company’s 16th location in Arizona, Utah, Nevada, New Mexico and Ohio and the only pharmacy in California.
After purchasing the 30-year old, 1,800-square-foot pharmacy in January 2009, The Apothecary Shops completed a comprehensive three-month renovation.
Under management by Pharmacy Director Raquel Dina, Pharm.D., one of six Apothecary Shops pharmacists certified by the American Academy of HIV Medicine (AAHIVM), the pharmacy recorded 2009 sales of $960,000. Projections for 2010 are for sales of $2.05 million.
Dina previously served as Pharmacy Manager for the AIDS Healthcare Foundation in West Hollywood.
“The Los Angeles market is a critical component in our overall strategic growth plan,” said Keith Cook, president, The Apothecary Shops. “The needs of the region’s diverse population continue to grow for quality pharmaceuticals in a range of specialties. At the same time, we bring an added element of ongoing, 24-hour patient education to ensure that they understand the importance of maintaining their individual drug regimens. We also work very closely with individual physicians as part of the overall continuum of care.”
On January 1, The Apothecary Shops became a Tier 1 Specialty Provider of the cancer drug Nexavar® (sorafenib) by Bayer Healthcare Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Nexavar® is the first oral cancer therapy that inhibits both tumor and tumor blood vessel growth among patients with advanced kidney and liver cancers.
The Apothecary Shops is one of only 15 companies nationwide with a Tier 1 status through which Nexavar® is available. As a Tier 1 Specialty Provider, The Apothecary Shops also will capture ongoing data relating to patient adherence to the medication through a series of clinical measures including patient education and monitoring.
In addition, in 2009 The Apothecary Shops completed construction of a 5,000-square-foot clean room and expanded its state-of-the-art mail-order fulfillment center in Phoenix to 19,000-square-feet, allowing The Apothecary Shops to generate sales in all 50 states within the company’s specialty service areas.
The Apothecary Shops’ pharmacists are on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The toll free number is 877-LINKSRX (546-5779).
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About The Apothecary Shops
The Apothecary Shops is one of the foremost chain of independent full-service pharmacies with specialties in veterinary medicine, infectious disease, oncology, ophthalmology, fertility, pain management, women’s health, transplant, compounding and sports health. A National Specialty Pharmacy, The Apothecary Shops has provided individualized care and support to patients since 1996. The clinical pharmacists and staff members are experts in managing complex disease states and providing compassionate care. The Apothecary Shops offer a nationwide specialty mail-order service to complement 16 physical practices. For more information, visit www.theapothecaryshop.com.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - Feb. 8, 2010
9TH ANNUAL PHOENIX WALK-A-THON WILL RAISE MONEY FOR BRAIN TUMOR RESEARCH, NOON-3 P.M., SATURDAY, FEB. 27
CONTACT:
Ron Hirsch, (602) 537-2624
Steve Carr, The Kur Carr Group, Inc., (602) 317-3040
PHOENIX, Ariz. (Feb. 8, 2010): Students from across the Valley will walk up to five miles around the Sun Angel Stadium track on Saturday, Feb. 27 to raise money for brain tumor research during the 2010 Students Supporting Brain Tumor Research (SSBTR) Walk-A-Thon.
The metro Phoenix event, from noon to 3 p.m., is one of two walks also planned in Tucson on Feb. 20 at the University of Arizona mall.
Students, and others committed to the event, solicit sponsors for the walk or to donate either online (www.ssbtr.org) or by check.
Proceeds from the event support Barrow Neurological Institute, the National Brain Tumor Society, Phoenix Children’s Hospital and TGen. A silent auction also is planned at the event.
Founded in 2002 after three Paradise Valley school district students lost their struggle to brain tumors, SSBTR last year raised $214,443 and has donated more than $1 million to fund tumor research.
- Some facts about brain tumors:
- Within the next 12 months, more than 200,000 people in the U.S. will be diagnosed with a primary or metastatic brain tumor.
- Brain tumors are the leading cause of solid tumor cancer deaths in children through high-school age and the second leading cause of cancer deaths in young adults from 20-39.
- Because of their location at the control center for thought, emotion and physical function, brain tumors are difficult to treat.
- Currently brain tumors cannot be prevented because their causes are unknown.
Sponsors of the Walk are:
Presenting: Cruise Industry Charitable Foundation, St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center and Barrow Neurological Institute
Platinum: Diamondbacks, Fast Turtle Technologies, General Mills, Phoenix Suns, Harkins Theatres, Desert Mountain Wolves, Phoenix Children’s Hospital, Zeiss, Royal Caribbean, Valpak of Arizona at Phoenix, IBIS Foundation of Arizona, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona, Mark Erickson’s Team, ASU-USG, Kay, Rose & Partners, LLC, Lauren Kaye Family, Tim Mayhew’s Family, Fun Runners Rentals, The Rick Oehme Foundation, University Medical Center
Gold: American Express, Amster & Willis, CPA’s, The Apothecary Shops, The Branding Spot, Costa Cruises, Hirsch Family, Jaburg & Wilk Foundation, Matt Turk Foundation, Nicky Mailliard’s Loved Ones, Rudolph Family, Valley Anesthesiology Foundation
Silver: Argonaut Group, Domain Communities, GG Gems, Golden Spoon, Friends & Family of Grandma Joanie, William and Nancy Heller Family, Lauren Kaye’s NY Friend, Phoenix Children’s Center, Revolution Tea, Scottsdale Pediatric Center, SOHO Hair Studio
To register or for more information, go to www.ssbtr.org, email admin@ssbtr.org or call 1-888-SSBTRAZ (772-8729).
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About SSBTR
Founded in 2002 after three Paradise Valley school district students lost their battle with brain tumors, Students Supporting Brain Tumor Research (SSBTR) is a 501 (c) 3 nonprofit organization that raises funds to support brain tumor research through annual walk-a-thons. Since 2002, SSBTR has donated more than $1 million to Barrow Neurological Institute, Phoenix Children’s Hospital, the National Brain Tumor Society and TGen. For information, visit www.ssbtr.org.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - Feb. 2, 2010
TWICE MONTHLY “CLUB MEDS” LUNCHEONS GIVE HIV/AIDS PATIENTS CHANCE TO MEET WITH PHARMACIST ABOUT MEDICATIONS
There is no charge for the events at McDowell Healthcare Clinic
CONTACT:
Linda Hausman, Marketing Manager, Sonora Quest Laboratories, (602) 685-5280
Julie Mystrom, Marketing Director, The Apothecary Shops, (623) 742-1709
Steve Carr, The Kur Carr Group, Inc., (602) 317-3040
PHOENIX, Ariz: (Feb. 2, 2010): Club Meds, a free twice-monthly lunch presentation when HIV/AIDS patients can meet with pharmacists to discuss their medications, are scheduled the first and third Wednesdays of every month at the McDowell Healthcare Clinic, 1141 E. McDowell Road.
A collaboration of The Apothecary Shops, Maricopa Integrated Health Systems (MIHS) and primary sponsor Sonora Quest Laboratories, Club Meds programs are led by The Apothecary Shops’ pharmacists specializing in HIV/AIDS and other infectious disease medications. The program consists of six health topics such as HIV education, medication side effect management, adherence help and how to make the most out of one’s health-care visit.
“Ensuring that HIV and AIDS patients stay on their drug regimen is critical to their well being and their ability to stay healthy,” said Joe Serfaty, Vice President of Sales & Marketing for Sonora Quest Laboratories. “That’s our primary goal of supporting this program, and the pharmacists from The Apothecary Shops are a vital resource for those patients to understand the process.”
To sign up for a Club Meds lunch presentation, call 602-257-1133 or to learn more about the program, visit http://theapothecaryshop.com/club-meds.html. Space is limited, so reservations are recommended. The presentation also is available in Spanish.
The Apothecary Shops, one of the nation’s foremost chains of independent full-service pharmacies with 10 specialty practices including Infectious Disease and Pain Management, has established relationships with HIV/AIDS service providers in the Valley as well as in Columbus, Ohio near Ohio State University and in Las Vegas in collaboration with AID for AIDS of Nevada (AFAN) to serve the southern Nevada HIV/AIDS community.
Six of The Apothecary Shops’ pharmacists have been certified by the American Academy of HIV Medicine (AAHIVM), which introduced the pharmacy-related credentialing program to complement its credentialing program for physicians (MDs and DOs), nurse practitioners and physician assistants specializing in HIV care.
The first and only credential offered domestically and internationally to become designated HIV Subject Matter Experts™, applicants must meet specific experience and education requirements and successfully complete a rigorous, knowledge-based exam on HIV-specialized medical care. The HIV Specialist™ credentialing exam is overseen by Castle Worldwide, one of the nation’s leading testing companies.
The Apothecary Shops operates 16 free-standing pharmacies in Arizona, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Albuquerque, Salt Lake City and Columbus, Ohio. Apothecary Shops’ pharmacies are accredited by the Pharmacy Compounding Accreditation Board.
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About The Apothecary Shops
The Apothecary Shops is one of the foremost chain of independent full-service pharmacies with specialties in infectious disease, veterinary medicine, oncology, ophthalmology, fertility, pain management, women’s health, transplant, compounding and sports health. A National Specialty Pharmacy, The Apothecary Shops has provided individualized care and support to patients since 1996. The clinical pharmacists and staff members are experts in managing complex disease states and providing compassionate care. The Apothecary Shops offer a nationwide specialty mail-order service to complement 16 physical practices. For more information, visit www.theapothecaryshop.com.
About Sonora Quest Laboratories
Sonora Quest Laboratories, a subsidiary of Laboratory Sciences of Arizona, serves over 6,000 physician clients throughout Arizona. They are the market share leader in clinical laboratory testing in Arizona, performing more than 45 million tests annually. Ninety-eight percent of all testing is performed at their primary testing facilities located in Tempe, Tucson, and Flagstaff. Sonora Quest Laboratories is committed to the fight against HIV and AIDS, supporting various programs and fundraising events to help serve the local community. Through their extensive testing menu and access to the latest diagnostic and monitoring assays clinicians are provided vital tools to assist in improving patient care. For more information, visit www.SonoraQuest.com.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - Jan. 20, 2010
THE APOTHECARY SHOPS ELEVATED TO TIER 1 SPECIALTY PROVIDER BY BAYER ONYX FOR PURCHASE AND SALES OF CANCER DRUG NEXAVAR
Pharmacists to Monitor Patient Adherence to Therapy Through Ongoing Patient Education
CONTACT:
Leslie Yendro, Vice President, Business Development, The Apothecary Shops, (623) 742-1704
Julie Mystrom, Marketing Director, The Apothecary Shops, (623) 742-1709
Steve Carr, The Kur Carr Group, Inc., (602) 317-3040
PHOENIX, Ariz. (Jan. 20, 2010): The Apothecary Shops has been elevated by Bayer Onyx to a Tier 1 Specialty Provider for retail sales of the cancer drug Nexavar, the first oral cancer therapy that inhibits both tumor and tumor blood vessel growth among patients with advanced kidney and liver cancers.
Effective January 1, The Apothecary Shops became one of only 15 companies nationwide with a Tier 1 status through which Nexavar is exclusively available. As a Tier 1 Specialty Provider, The Apothecary Shops also will provide Bayer Onyx ongoing data relating to patient adherence to the medication through a series of clinical measures including patient education and monitoring.
Nexavar is now approved in more than 90 countries for the treatment of advanced kidney cancer and in more than 80 countries for liver cancer. Bayer and Onyx also are conducting Nexavar clinical trials in several other cancer types including lung, breast, thyroid, ovarian and colon cancers, according to the most-recent 10K filing by Onyx with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
“Receiving Tier 1 status is an important milestone for The Apothecary Shop given both its exclusivity and its inherent responsibilities,” said Keith Cook, President of The Apothecary Shops, who also has been named to the Bayer Onyx Advisory Board for specialty pharmacies. “Among the most important components of this relationship is keeping patients on the medication, an element of our business that has always been at the top of our priority list. It is the reason our pharmacists are available to speak with patients and their doctors 24 hours a day, seven days a week.”
The Apothecary Shops operates 16 free-standing pharmacies in Arizona, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Albuquerque, Salt Lake City and Columbus, Ohio. Apothecary Shops pharmacies are accredited by the Pharmacy Compounding Accreditation Board.
In addition, during 2009 The Apothecary Shops completed construction of a 5,000-square-foot clean room and expanded their state-of-the-art mail-order fulfillment center to 19,000-square-feet to meet the company’s growing nationwide demand for pharmaceuticals in its 10 specialty areas, allowing The Apothecary Shops to generate sales in all 50 states within their specialty service areas.
The Apothecary Shops’ pharmacists are on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The toll free number is 877-546-5779.
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About The Apothecary Shops
The Apothecary Shops is one of the foremost chain of independent full-service pharmacies with specialties in infectious disease, veterinary medicine, oncology, ophthalmology, fertility, pain management, women’s health, transplant, compounding and sports health. A National Specialty Pharmacy, The Apothecary Shops has provided individualized care and support to patients since 1996. The clinical pharmacists and staff members are experts in managing complex disease states and providing compassionate care. The Apothecary Shops offer a nationwide specialty mail-order service to complement 16 physical practices. For more information, visit www.theapothecaryshop.com.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - Jan. 19, 2010
THE APOTHECARY SHOPS ELEVATED TO TIER 1 SPECIALTY PROVIDER BY BAYER HEALTHCARE PHARMACEUTICALS FOR PURCHASE AND SALES OF CANCER DRUG NEXAVAR®
Pharmacists to Monitor Patient Adherence to Therapy Through Ongoing Patient Education
CONTACT:
Leslie Yendro, Vice President, Business Development, The Apothecary Shops, (623) 742-1704
Julie Mystrom, Marketing Director, The Apothecary Shops, (623) 742-1709
Steve Carr, The Kur Carr Group, Inc., (602) 317-3040
PHOENIX, Ariz. (Jan. 19, 2010): The Apothecary Shops has been elevated by Bayer Healthcare Pharmaceuticals, Inc. to a Tier 1 Specialty Provider of the cancer drug Nexavar® (sorafenib), the first oral cancer therapy that inhibits both tumor and tumor blood vessel growth among patients with advanced kidney and liver cancers.
Effective January 1, The Apothecary Shops became one of only 15 companies nationwide with a Tier 1 status through which Nexavar® is available. As a Tier 1 Specialty Provider, The Apothecary Shops also will capture ongoing data relating to patient adherence to the medication through a series of clinical measures including patient education and monitoring.
Nexavar® is now approved in more than 90 countries for the treatment of advanced kidney cancer and in more than 80 countries for liver cancer. Bayer Healthcare and Onyx Pharmaceuticals also are conducting Nexavar® clinical trials in several other cancer types including lung, breast, thyroid, ovarian and colon cancers, according to the most-recent 10K filing by Onyx with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The drug is co-marketed by Bayer and Onyx in the United States.
"Receiving Tier 1 status is an important milestone for The Apothecary Shops given both its exclusivity and its inherent responsibilities," said Keith Cook, President of The Apothecary Shops, who also has been named to the Bayer Onyx Advisory Board for specialty pharmacies. "Among the most important components of this relationship is keeping patients adherent to the medication, an element of our business that has always been at the top of our priority list. It is the reason our clinical pharmacists are available to speak with patients and their doctors 24 hours a day, seven days a week."
The Apothecary Shops operates 16 free-standing specialty pharmacies in Arizona, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Albuquerque, Salt Lake City and Columbus, Ohio. Several of The Apothecary Shops pharmacies are accredited by the Pharmacy Compounding Accreditation Board.
In addition, during 2009 The Apothecary Shops completed construction of a 5,000-square-foot clean room and expanded their state-of-the-art mail-order fulfillment center in Phoenix, AZ to 19,000-square-feet to meet the company's growing nationwide demand for pharmaceuticals in its 10 specialty areas, allowing The Apothecary Shops to generate sales in all 50 states within their specialty service areas.
The Apothecary Shops' pharmacists are on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The toll free number is 877-LINKSRX (546-5779).
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About The Apothecary Shops
The Apothecary Shops is the foremost chain of independent full-service pharmacies with specialties in veterinary medicine, oncology, ophthalmology, fertility, infectious disease, pain management, women’s health, transplant, compounding and sports health. A National Specialty Pharmacy, The Apothecary Shops has provided individualized care and support to patients since 1996. The clinical pharmacists and staff members are experts in managing complex disease states and providing compassionate care. The Apothecary Shops offer a nationwide specialty mail-order service to complement 16 physical practices. For more information, visit www.theapothecaryshop.com.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - Dec. 18, 2009
THE APOTHECARY SHOPS PLANS TO CONTINUE HIRING TREND INTO 2010
At Least 30 New Jobs Expected To Be Filled Across the Company
CONTACT:
Julie Mystrom, The Apothecary Shops, (480) 391-0346
Steve Carr, The Kur Carr Group, Inc., (602) 317-3040
PHOENIX, Ariz. (Dec.18, 2009): The Apothecary Shops, the nation’s foremost chain of independent full-service pharmacies, did not slow down in 2009 and doesn’t plan to put the hiring brakes on in 2010 either.
The company, which added 29 new positions in 2009 including executives, pharmacists, technicians and support staff, an increase of 17.4%, expects to fill at least 30 new jobs to start the second decade of the 21st century. The Apothecary Shops has 180 employees, 150 in Arizona.
“We’re growing and we’re growing fast,” said The Apothecary Shops’ President Keith Cook, who was hired in October. “As the company moves aggressively to expand our operations, we’re looking for qualified employees to get us where we need to be.”
With $115 million in projected revenues for 2009, an increase from $82 million in 2008, the company has current openings for Director of Pharmacy Operations, Pharmacy Call Center Manager, Call Center: Specialty Care Coordinator for Fertility and Oncology, Training Administrator, 3rd Party Contracts Administrator, Marketing Coordinator and IT Help Desk Specialist.
The Apothecary Shops operates 16 free-standing pharmacies in Arizona, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Albuquerque, Salt Lake City and Columbus, Ohio with additional locations to be announced soon. Apothecary Shops pharmacies are accredited by the Pharmacy Compounding Accreditation Board.
In addition, during 2009 the company completed construction of a 5,000 square foot clean room and opened a new NEED SQUARE FOOTAGE state-of-the-art mail-order fulfillment center to meet the company’s growing nationwide demand for pharmaceuticals in 10 specialty areas.
For more information about The Apothecary Shop, visit www.theapothecaryshop.com.
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About The Apothecary Shops
The Apothecary Shops is the foremost chain of independent full-service pharmacies with specialties in veterinary medicine, oncology, ophthalmology, fertility, infectious disease, pain management, women’s health, transplant, compounding and sports health. A National Specialty Pharmacy, The Apothecary Shops has provided individualized care and support to patients since 1996. The clinical pharmacists and staff members are experts in managing complex disease states and providing compassionate care. The Apothecary Shops offer a nationwide specialty mail-order service to complement 14 physical practices. For more information, visit www.theapothecaryshop.com.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - Oct. 22, 2009
THE APOTHECARY SHOPS EXPAND EXECUTIVE MANAGEMENT TEAM FOR FOCUS ON NATIONAL GROWTH STRATEGY
Keith Cook Named President, Founder John D. Musil, Pharm.D, Remains CEO
CONTACT:
Julie Mystrom, The Apothecary Shops, (480) 391-0346
Steve Carr, The Kur Carr Group, Inc., (602) 317-3040
PHOENIX, Ariz. (Oct. 22, 2009): Building on the company’s successful regional growth and moving toward an aggressive national expansion strategy, The Apothecary Shops founder John D. Musil, Pharm.D, has restructured the company’s executive management team by naming Keith Cook, the former Vice President for Clinical Operations for Medicine Shoppe International, as president.
Musil will remain Chief Operating Officer and be responsible for the company’s overall strategic growth initiatives. The company’s redesigned executive committee will report to him.
Cook spent most of the past three years with Medicine Shoppe International, the largest franchisor of independent community pharmacies in the United States with more than 850 locations and more than 400 international pharmacies in Canada, China, Japan, Indonesia and the Middle East. He will take over day-to-day operations of The Apothecary Shops’ 15 current locations in five states and 200 employees.
Founded by Musil in 1996, The Apothecary Shops, ranked No. 2716 on INC Magazine’s current list of top 5000 companies, reported revenue growth of 107.3 percent over three years with an increase from $40.1 million annually in 2005 to $83.2 million in 2008.
Musil also named Gary Williams, most recently Vice President of Financial Services for Avnet Technology Solutions North America, as The Apothecary Shops’ first Chief Financial Officer. Williams, who was responsible for financial services and capital programs for the $4.28 billion operating group of Avnet, Inc., also will report to Musil.
“These strategic steps and divisions of responsibility better position the company to be a player on a national scale,” Musil said. “The breadth of Keith’s experience and depth of his background in all phases of pharmacy operations and management will be essential as we aggressively move forward. At the same time, his extensive and intimate knowledge of this business model will drive the development and implementation of new strategies to meet the growing need and increasing demand for specialty pharmacy services and products.”
Cook, a pharmacist with more than two decades of executive experience in retail, specialty and hospital pharmacy management, led the growth and development of Medicine Shoppe International’s Specialty Care Centers which provide specialized clinical patient care in retail pharmacies in the areas of diabetes, long-term care, specialty pharmacy, immunizations, compounding and home medical equipment.
“The Apothecary Shops is poised to do great things in this industry,” Cook said. “To his credit, in looking at a national-growth strategy, John stepped back and was able to assess where the company needed broader industry experience. I’m excited about the opportunities and potential in front of us.”
Musil said that, in addition to Cook’s significant practical experience in pharmacy operations, “he brings to the table extensive relationships developed over 20 years in this industry.”
Before joining Medicine Shoppe International, Cook negotiated, purchased and promoted all over-the-counter pharmacy products as Senior Buyer, Pharmacy OTC for all of Wal-Mart Stores’ Sam’s Clubs in the United States.
Cook is a graduate of the Wharton School of Business, Executive Management Program for Pharmacy Leaders, and holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Pharmacy from the University of Kansas.
Williams’ experience also includes responsibilities as Vice President Sales Operations for Avnet Technology Solutions and as Vice President of Credit and Collections for the group. He also has extensive experience in technology solution development for end users.
In addition to Cook and Williams, The Apothecary Shops executive management team includes Hamilton Baiden, Vice President Sales and Marketing, Nathan Downhour, Pharm.D., Vice President Pharmacy Operations, and Jana Gilsrud, Vice President Human Resources.
For more information about The Apothecary Shop, visit www.theapothecaryshop.com.
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About The Apothecary Shops
Based in Phoenix, The Apothecary Shops is the country’s foremost chain of independent full-service pharmacies with specialties in fertility, women’s health, oncology, ophthalmology, infectious disease, pain management, transplant, sports health, veterinary medicine and compounding. A National Specialty Pharmacy, The Apothecary Shops has provided individualized care and support to patients since 1996. The pharmacists and certified technical staff at all 15 locations are on the cutting edge of the pharmaceutical industry and are trained to handle complex medical conditions. Additionally, the company offers a National Mail-order Pharmacy. For information, visit www.theapothecaryshop.com.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - Sept. 23, 2009
THE APOTHECARY SHOPS STAFFS UP TO FILL ERYTHROMYCIN OPHTHALMIC OINTMENT SHORTAGE IN U.S. HOSPITALS
Company Creates Special Toll Free Number, Web Page to Expedite Ordering Process
CONTACT:
Julie Mystrom, The Apothecary Shops, (480) 391-0346
Steve Carr, The Kur Carr Group, Inc., (602) 317-3040
PHOENIX, Ariz. (Sept. 23, 2009): To offset a nationwide shortage in supplies of an ointment that protects newborn infants from contracting chlamydia and gonorrhea at birth, The Apothecary Shops is producing between 3000 and 4000 single-dose tubes a month of an erythromycin ophthalmic compound for hospitals in Arizona and across the country.
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has confirmed a shortage of erythromycin ophthalmic ointment, the only product available in the United States recommended for protection against the diseases in infants.
Moments after birth, the ointment is applied to a baby’s eyes. The American Academy of Pediatrics and the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommend using erythromycin, which is required in most states. The American Academy of Family Physicians reports on its website that the USPSTF said that “there is good evidence that blindness due to gonococcal opthalmia neonatorum has become rare in the United States since the implementation of universal preventive medication of newborns.”
The Apothecary Shops has increased staffing in its brand new state-of-the-art compounding lab to nearly 10 highly trained lab technicians to produce the ophthalmic compound to meet the needs of hospitals.
A special toll free number and web site have been created to expedite the ordering process: 877-393-6468 or www.infanteye.com.
“We can’t manufacture erythromycin, but we can produce a compound that provides the protection the babies need,” said Jim Rehovsky, R.Ph., National Director, Ophthalmology at Phoenix-based The Apothecary Shops. “It’s a critically important preventative. Hospitals in Arizona use at least 600 tubes a month.”
According to the Federal Drug Administration (FDA), the shortage developed following a change in manufacturers when Fera Pharmaceuticals acquired the rights to the pharmaceutical from Fougara & Co. Fera officials estimate the ointment will be available in 2010. Two other manufacturers, Bausch & Lomb and Ocusoft, are experiencing product shortages due to increased demand, according to the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (AHSP).
There are no commercially available alternatives.
“We are working in shifts beginning at 4 a.m. to meet the demand and have increased the size of our staff to handle the production,” Rehovsky said.
For more information or to place an order, visit www.infanteye.com. For more information about The Apothecary Shops, visit www.theapothecaryshop.com.
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About The Apothecary Shops
The Apothecary Shops is the foremost chain of independent full-service pharmacies with specialties in veterinary medicine, oncology, ophthalmology, fertility, infectious disease, pain management, women’s health, transplant, compounding and sports health. A National Specialty Pharmacy, The Apothecary Shops has provided individualized care and support to patients since 1996. The clinical pharmacists and staff members are experts in managing complex disease states and providing compassionate care. The Apothecary Shops offer a nationwide specialty mail-order service to complement 14 physical practices. For more information, visit www.theapothecaryshop.com.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - Sept. 5, 2009
THE APOTHECARY SHOPS ADDS 3 NEW CANCER DRUGS TO GROWING INVENTORY OF SPECIALTY ONCOLOGY PHARMACEUTICALS
CONTACT:
Leslie Yendro, The Apothecary Shops, (847) 358-9821
Steve Carr, The Kur Carr Group, Inc., (602) 317-3040
PHOENIX, Ariz. (May 18, 2009): The addition of three new cancer drugs to The Apothecary Shops’ inventory of oncology pharmaceuticals reflects the company’s growing influence in the rapidly-expanding niche of specialty pharmacies.
According to a 2009 report in the Journal of Clinical Oncology, the number of new cancer patients in the United States will increase 45 percent over the next 20 years.
“From both the medical perspective and as a business model, the focus on oncology as a specialty makes strategic, practical and healthcare sense,” said Leslie Yendro, Director of Business Development for The Apothecary Shops. “Right now, there are more than 860 medicines in development for cancer, and oncology drugs are projected to comprise between $5 and $7 billion in annual drug spending in 2010.”
Based in Phoenix, The Apothecary Shops now includes Afinitor®, approved by the Federal Drug Administration in March for treatment of advanced renal cell cancer; Nexavar®, also FDA approved for inoperable hepatocellular (liver) cancer; and Caphosol®, an FDA-approved mouthrinse that minimizes the severity of mouth sores and dry mouth from cancer treatments, among the oral chemotherapies, self-administered injectable biotech drugs and supportive care agents the company regularly has on hand.
The Apothecary Shops has a semi-exclusive specialty contract with Caphosol® manufacturer EUSA.
Over the past year, oncology sales at The Apothecary Shops have grown 170%. The oncology share of total company sales is projected to grow to from 2.9% in 2008 to 11% by year-end 2009. In January, the company added four regional specialty sales representatives for oncology and transplant specialty sales to hospitals and outpatient clinics.
“On the clinical side, our pharmacists are highly trained in their specialties and through regular communications with doctors and their patients can provide information and education about the drugs and monitor the patient’s adherence to the drug regimen,” Yendro said. “Through that regular contact, we can document whether or not a patient is staying on the drugs, which is critical to ensuring the drug’s effectiveness in treating the specific cancers they’re designed to address.”
In addition to a robust clinical support program, The Apothecary Shops also offers insurance verification and prior authorization services, expertise in Medicare Parts B and D billing, and free Fed Ex shipping of all oncology medications directly to a patient’s home nationwide.
In May 2008, the company launched its LINKS Rx program for oncology to provide patients, providers and physicians additional information and support at www.theapothecaryshop.com/linksrx_oncology.html.
In addition to its oncology specialty, The Apothecary Shops, a national specialty pharmacy, focuses on targeted medical specialties including ophthalmology, pain management, transplant, fertility, infectious disease including HIV/AIDS, veterinary medicine, sports health and compounding. The Apothecary Shops had one of the nation’s first pharmacies to earn accreditation from the Pharmacy Compounding Accreditation Board (PCAB).
The Apothecary Shops’ pharmacists are on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The toll free number is 877-546-5779.
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About The Apothecary Shops
The Apothecary Shops is the foremost chain of independent full-service pharmacies with specialties in veterinary medicine, oncology, ophthalmology, fertility, infectious disease, pain management, women’s health, transplant, compounding and sports health. A National Specialty Pharmacy, The Apothecary Shops has provided individualized care and support to patients since 1996. The clinical pharmacists and staff members are experts in managing complex disease states and providing compassionate care. The Apothecary Shops offer a nationwide specialty mail-order service to complement 14 physical practices. For more information, visit www.theapothecaryshop.com.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - August 28, 2009
SINCE OPENING IN 2007, COLUMBUS’ APOTHECARY SHOP SHOWING SIGNIFICANT GROWTH IN SPECIALTY FOCUSES
HIV/AIDS, Transplant, Ophthalmology Among Fastest Growing Segments
CONTACT:
Hamilton Baiden, The Apothecary Shops, (602) 881-5389
Dave Brandebura, R.Ph., (614) 360-2800
Steve Carr, The Kur Carr Group, Inc., (602) 317-3040
COLUMBUS, Ohio (Aug. 28, 2009): Since opening for business in January 2007, The Apothecary Shops, a specialty pharmacy with specific expertise in ten areas of excellence including HIV/AIDS, fertility, transplant, veterinary, pain management and ophthalmology, the store has seen business increase from $3,000 that first month to more than $430,000 in July of this year.
With a staff that now includes an after-hours pharmacist, three technicians and a full- time sales representative, The Apothecary Shops has provided medications to nearly 100 heart and kidney transplant patients at Ohio State University – and delivered meds to their beds when they’re ready to be discharged – and made tremendous strides in building collaborations in the HIV/AIDS community.
More importantly, the pharmacy – the only one in Columbus operating with Pharmacy Compounding Accrediting Board (PCAB) accreditation and one of only three PCAB-accredited pharmacies in Ohio – has expanded the availability of medicines offered to a wide range of physicians and their patients.
The Apothecary Shops is among just a few pharmacies in Columbus dispensing Serostim, a medication for HIV patients with Wasting Syndrome.
Located in a 1,700 square foot storefront in the five-story Eye Center at 262 Neil Ave., Pharmacy Director Dave Brandebura, R.Ph., said that in addition to a growing base of clients in HIV/AIDS, transplant and compounding, the company is projecting significant growth in the areas of fertility, pain management and ophthalmology over the next 12 months.
“We’re also targeting veterinary practices in the Columbus area because of the value and importance that our specialty and compounding bring in treating medical issues in pets,” he said. “Compounding enables the veterinarian to medicate animals who would not willingly take a drug in its regular form. This makes it easier to administer to the pet and greatly improves therapeutic outcomes."
Based in Phoenix, Ariz. and with stores in Arizona, Nevada, Utah and Los Angeles, the privately held Apothecary Shops don’t compete with retail drug stores by offering general merchandise or many over-the-counter drugs.
“Our focus is strictly on providing compounded and specialty medications. We provide clinical expertise for patients with complex medication regimens such as oncology. We enjoy the high-touch approach for these types of patients, care givers and practitioners,” Brandebura said. “To that end, we are building relationships with doctors serving the HIV/AIDS community, working more with fertility specialists and practices and we definitely look forward to seeing an increase in compounding, fertility and pain management.”
As a PCAB-accredited pharmacy, The Apothecary Shops completed a rigorous approval process and operates its compounding lab under very strict guidelines and pharmaceutical standards. The company is dedicated to PCAB accreditation for all stores as it continues to grow and expand throughout the United States.
“The company is committed to ensuring that our patients and practitioners receive pharmaceuticals of the highest quality,” Brandebura said. “PCAB accreditation provides that level of confidence and security.”
The Apothecary Shops is open from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday with a pharmacist available after hours.
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About The Apothecary Shops
Based in Phoenix, The Apothecary Shops is the country’s foremost chain of independent full-service pharmacies with specialties in fertility, women’s health, oncology, ophthalmology, infectious disease, pain management, transplant, sports health, veterinary medicine and compounding. A National Specialty Pharmacy, The Apothecary Shops has provided individualized care and support to patients since 1996. The pharmacists and certified technical staff at all 15 locations are on the cutting edge of the pharmaceutical industry and are trained to handle complex medical conditions. Additionally, the company offers a National Mail-order Pharmacy. For more information, visit www.theapothecaryshop.com.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - August 26, 2009
KEITH L. COOK NAMED PRESIDENT OF THE APOTHECARY SHOPS
The Apothecary Shops Founder, John D. Musil, Pharm.D, Will Remain CEO
CONTACT:
Julie Mystrom, The Apothecary Shops, (480) 391-0346
Steve Carr, The Kur Carr Group, Inc., (602) 317-3040
PHOENIX, Ariz. (August 26, 2009): Keith L. Cook, a pharmacist with more than two decades of executive experience in retail, specialty and hospital pharmacy management, has been named President of The Apothecary Shops, a growing chain of independent full-service pharmacies with operations in Arizona, California, Nevada and Utah.
The Apothecary Shops founder, John D. Musil, Pharm.D, will remain Chief Operating Officer of the Phoenix-based company.
Most recently, Cook served as Vice President for Clinical Operations for Medicine Shoppe International, the largest franchisor of independent community pharmacies in the United States with more than 850 locations and more than 400 international pharmacies in Canada, China, Japan, Indonesia and the Middle East.
“The breadth of Keith’s experience and depth of his background in all phases of pharmacy operations and management will be essential as we aggressively move forward,” Musil said. “At the same time, his extensive and intimate knowledge of this business model will drive the development and implementation of new strategies to meet the growing need and increasing demand for specialty pharmacy services and products.”
During the past two years at Medicine Shoppe International, Cook led the growth and development of the company’s Specialty Care Centers which provided specialized clinical patient care in retail pharmacies in the areas of diabetes, long-term care, specialty pharmacy, immunizations, compounding and home medical equipment.
Before joining Medicine Shoppe International, from 2003 to 2006, Cook negotiated, purchased and promoted all over-the-counter pharmacy products as Senior Buyer, Pharmacy OTC for all of Wal-Mart Stores’ Sam’s Clubs in the United States.
Previously, he was Director, Managed Care in Wal-Mart Stores’ Pharmacy Division with responsibility for sales and revenue through supplemental businesses including pharmacy benefit management, mail order pharmacy, specialty pharmacy and patient compliance.
He began his career at Wal-Mart as a Pharmacy Manager in 1986 before taking on higher level management responsibilities as Pharmacy District Manager for all Wal-Mart pharmacies in central Missouri from 1989 to 1999 and then as Operations Coordinator with responsibility for originating and executing programs between the Wal-Mart Corporate Office and Wal-Mart Stores’ pharmacies.
Cook is a graduate of the Wharton School of Business, Executive Management Program for Pharmacy Leaders, and holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Pharmacy from the University of Kansas.
For more information about The Apothecary Shop, visit www.theapothecaryshop.com.
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About The Apothecary Shops
Based in Phoenix, The Apothecary Shops is the country’s foremost chain of independent full-service pharmacies with specialties in fertility, women’s health, oncology, ophthalmology, infectious disease, pain management, transplant, sports health, veterinary medicine and compounding. A National Specialty Pharmacy, The Apothecary Shops has provided individualized care and support to patients since 1996. The pharmacists and certified technical staff at all 15 locations are on the cutting edge of the pharmaceutical industry and are trained to handle complex medical conditions. Additionally, the company offers a National Mail-order Pharmacy. For information, visit www.theapothecaryshop.com.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - August 12, 2009
DRY EYE SUFFERERS, AND THERE ARE AN ESTIMATED 21 MILLION NATIONWIDE, MOSTLY WOMEN, CAN EASE THEIR OWN SYMPTOMS
Autologous Eye Serum Uses Patient’s Blood For Effective Eyedrop at The Apothecary Shops
CONTACT:
Julie Mystrom, The Apothecary Shops, (480) 391-0346
Steve Carr, The Kur Carr Group, Inc., (602) 317-3040
PHOENIX, Ariz. (Aug. 12, 2009): Sufferers of dry eye, which is caused primarily by the loss of water in tears and is one of the most-common eye conditions in middle-aged individuals, especially women, can take an “active” role in treating their symptoms by giving up a little of their own blood.
A growing list of studies show that Autologous Eye Serum, an eye drop which uses a patient’s own immune properties as its foundation, has been highly effective in treating severe dry eye disease.
Dry eye, a sandy-gritty irritation or burning that generally gets worse as they day goes on, affects approximately 14 percent, or an estimated 21 million, people over 40. Women are primarily impacted by dry eye as a result of changes from menopause.
“There are many studies in Europe and Japan showing that Autologous Eye Serum helps heal the corneal cells and stimulates tear production,” said Jim Rehovsky, R.Ph., National Director, Ophthalmology at Phoenix-based The Apothecary Shops through which ophthalmologists can order Autologous Eye Serum. “The eye drops use your immune system to produce immune bodies that help stimulate epithelial tissue to come back and help with the dry eye problem.”
Studies published in both the British Journal of Ophthalmology and American Journal of Ophthalmology as well as publications including Ophthalmology and EYE support the effectiveness of the product.
Dr. Sheila MacLennan, who co-authored a review article in the British Journal of Ophthalmology of a randomized controlled trial concluded that “this treatment was superior to conventional treatment for improving ocular surface health and subjective comfort” for most patients in the study.
Rehovsky cited the effect of the serum on a Valley-based woman with corneal ulcers in her eye who “couldn’t drive a car or operate a computer and today has no problems or pain.”
He said that The Apothecary Shops pharmacists have completed special ophthalmological training programs related to the use and compounding of Autologous serum.
After consulting an ophthalmologist and receiving a prescription, a patient has his or her blood drawn at a lab. The blood is provided to The Apothecary Shops where the sample is run through a centrifuge as part of the process to create the custom-made, individualized eyedrop.
Autologous Eye Serum is not FDA approved because using a person’s blood prevents it from being manufactured on a large scale. However, it is one of many effective drugs being used by doctors nationwide, Rehovsky said.
“Autologous is of a self-healing nature that has worked very well” and The Apothecary Shops is filling orders from physicians across the nation.
For more information about The Apothecary Shop, visit www.theapothecaryshop.com.
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About The Apothecary Shops
The Apothecary Shops is the foremost chain of independent full-service pharmacies with specialties in ophthalmology, veterinary medicine, oncology, fertility, infectious disease, pain management, women’s health, transplant, compounding and sports health. A National Specialty Pharmacy, The Apothecary Shops has provided individualized care and support to patients since 1996. The clinical pharmacists and staff members are experts in managing complex disease states and providing compassionate care. The Apothecary Shops offer a nationwide specialty mail-order service to complement 14 physical practices.. For information, visit www.theapothecaryshop.com.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - July, 2009
AMERICAN ANIMAL HOSPITAL ASSOCIATION JOINS GROWING LIST OF ORGANIZATIONS ADVOCATING PHARMACY COMPOUNDING ACCREDITATION
The Apothecary Shops Pharmacies in Scottsdale, Columbus Among 50 Accredited Nationwide
CONTACT:
Brett Cordes, DVM, The Apothecary Shops,
Julie Mystrom, The Apothecary Shops, (480) 391-0346
Steve Carr, The Kur Carr Group, Inc., (602) 317-3040
PHOENIX, Ariz. (July xx, 2009): The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), a worldwide professional development association serving more than 40,000 veterinary providers, has joined a growing chorus of advocates endorsing the use of specialty pharmacies accredited by the Pharmacy Compounding Accreditation Board (PCAB).
At its recent board meeting, AAHA directors passed a motion recommending that “veterinarians acquire compounded medications from PCAB accredited pharmacies whenever feasible.”
The vote by the 66-year-old organization’s leadership follows similar positions taken by the American Veterinary Medical Association, the Society of Veterinary Hospital Pharmacists, American Pharmacists Association and United States Pharmacopeia.
Brett Cordes, DVM, who manages the veterinary specialty pharmacies for The Apothecary Shops and a consistent and proactive advocate for PCAB accreditation’s importance in setting pharmaceutical standards for companion animals, lauded the AAHA’s decision.
“The movement to establish appropriate standards for compounding pharmaceuticals for animals is as important to the care and well being of our pets as is finding a qualified, concerned and caring veterinarian,” Cordes said.
The Apothecary Shops, based in Phoenix, is in the process of securing PCAB accreditation for its xxx pharmacies in xx states. Currently, Apothecary Shops pharmacies in Scottsdale and Columbus, Ohio are among 50 pharmacies already accredited nationwide. The PCAB reports that more than 110 have applied for accreditation.
“We believe strongly enough in the process to meet the PCAB’s high quality and practice standards that the company is investing all necessary resources to ensure that all of our pharmacies earn accreditation,” said Hamilton Baiden, Vice President of Marketing for The Apothecary Shops. “We want every veterinarian with whom we work and all of their clients to know that the pharmaceuticals they receive from our pharmacies adhere to the strictest possible standards.”
PCAB uses comprehensive standards created by some of the leading organizations and pharmacy compounding experts in the profession. To earn PCAB accreditation, pharmacies meet strict criteria which include, but are not limited to, an extensive application, documentation of written policies and on-site inspections of quality procedures.
Tom Murry, PharmD, JD, executive director of the American Veterinary Medical Association, quoted in the June 6, 2009 issue of Veterinary Practice News, said that PCAB accreditation “is a way to validate that (a pharmacy) meets high quality standards.”
For more information about accreditation, visit www.pcab.org. For more information about the American Animal Hospital Association, visit www.aahanet.org.
For more information about The Apothecary Shops, visit www.theapothecaryshop.com.
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About The Apothecary Shops
Based in Phoenix, The Apothecary Shops is the country’s foremost chain of independent full-service pharmacies with specialties in fertility, women’s health, oncology, ophthalmology, infectious disease, pain management, transplant, sports health, veterinary medicine and compounding. A National Specialty Pharmacy, The Apothecary Shops has provided individualized care and support to patients since 1996. The pharmacists and certified technical staff at all locations are on the cutting edge of the pharmaceutical industry and are trained to handle complex medical conditions. Additionally, the company is a teaching site for pharmacy students from around the United States. For information, visit www.theapothecaryshop.com.
About The American Animal Hospital Association
Founded in 1933, The American Animal Hospital Association presently serves approximately 6,000 practice teams in the U.S. and Canada, and more than 40,000 veterinary care providers in North America and overseas. With a professional staff of 74, AAHA runs more than 20 meetings and seminars annually, and produces a wide array of publications, videotapes, client information and other services.
The AAHA is respected internationally for its dedication to professional development, for its hospital accreditation standards, and for the excellence of its education programs. This recognition and the strength of the organization is a tribute to the vision of its founders and to the leadership and dedication of the many veterinarians and other veterinary professionals who have devoted time and energy to serve AAHA through the years as directors, officers, member representatives, and committee members. For more information, visit www.aahanet.org.
About Pharmacy Compounding Accreditation Board
Compounding pharmacists play a vital role in their patients' lives, providing customized medications ordered by prescribers, sometimes when all other options will not work. Compounded medications are prepared by pharmacists for individual patients, often with special needs.
As the demand for compounded medications increased, the pharmacy profession saw a need for an enhanced, profession-wide system of standards by which each compounding pharmacy can test its quality processes. Compounding pharmacists also wanted a mechanism to allow them to know that their quality is high and that their patients are as safe as possible. PCAB Accreditation gives patients and prescribers a way to select a pharmacy that meets high quality standards. For more information, visit www.pcab.info.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - June 25, 2009
JANA GILSRUD NAMED VICE PRESIDENT FOR HUMAN RESOURCES AT THE APOTHECARY SHOPS
CONTACT:
Julie Mystrom, The Apothecary Shops, (480) 391-0346
Steve Carr, The Kur Carr Group, Inc., (602) 317-3040
PHOENIX, Ariz. (June 25, 2009): Jana Gilsrud has been named Vice President, Human Resources at The Apothecary Shops, the foremost chain of independent full-service pharmacies with specialties in veterinary medicine, oncology, ophthalmology, fertility, infectious disease, pain management, women’s health, transplant, sports health and compounding.
Previously, Gilsrud held Human Service Director-level positions with Healthways, Prudential and UnitedHealthcare Group, all in the Phoenix metropolitan area.
“Jana brings significant experience to The Apothecary Shops covering a range of disciplines for medium and large multi-state corporations that will be vital as we continue our rapid growth across the country,” said John D. Musil, Pharm.D., President and CEO of The Apothecary Shops.
For more information about The Apothecary Shops, visit www.theapothecaryshop.com.
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About The Apothecary Shops
The Apothecary Shops is one of the foremost chain of independent full-service pharmacies with specialties in infectious disease, veterinary medicine, oncology, ophthalmology, fertility, pain management, women’s health, transplant, compounding and sports health. A National Specialty Pharmacy, The Apothecary Shops has provided individualized care and support to patients since 1996. The clinical pharmacists and staff members are experts in managing complex disease states and providing compassionate care. The Apothecary Shops offer a nationwide specialty mail-order service to complement 13 physical practices. For more information, visit www.theapothecaryshop.com.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - Jan. 1, 2009
THE APOTHECARY SHOPS OPENS 2ND LAS VEGAS LOCATION; EXPANDS COLLABORATION WITH AFAN; OPEN HOUSE SET JAN. 14
CONTACT:
Julie Mystrom, Marketing Director, The Apothecary Shops, (480) 391-0346
Jennifer Morss, Executive Director, Aid for AIDS of Nevada (AFAN), (702) 382-2326, Ext. 8091
Steve Carr, The Kur Carr Group, Inc., (602) 317-3040
LAS VEGAS, Nev. (Jan. 5, 2009): As part of its nationwide expansion strategy, Phoenix-based The Apothecary Shops has opened a second Las Vegas retail pharmacy location at 701 Shadow Lane, #110 that also reflects a growing collaboration with AID for AIDS of Nevada (AFAN) to serve the southern Nevada HIV/AIDS community.
With 10 specialty practices including Infectious Disease and Pain Management, The Apothecary Shops “recognizes and understands that partnering with agencies like AFAN and working closely with physicians and their patients improves and enhances adherence to drug regimens and the outcome of treatments for diseases like HIV and AIDS,” said AFAN Executive Director Jennifer Morss. “At the same time, given how many of our clients face transportation challenges, having The Apothecary Shop in the same building as our office, the HIV clinic and University Medical Center’s Wellness Center is incredibly convenient for them.”
The Apothecary Shops has established similar relationships with HIV/AIDS organizations in the Phoenix metropolitan area and in Columbus, Ohio near Ohio State University. AFAN, which serves more than 3,000 clients, will celebrate its 26th anniversary in April.
“With our focus on providing medications, information and support for those with HIV and AIDS, working with AFAN only strengthens our commitment,” said Keith Cook, President, The Apothecary Shops. “HIV and AIDS medications are highly effective, but come with side effects that can be difficult for the patients. We have developed customized programs to help patients become more comfortable and successful with their treatment. Working with patients to monitor and improve therapy adherence leads to optimal outcomes for them.”
On January 14, a joint open house is planned from 5:00 – 8:00 p.m. at both The Apothecary Shop and the AFAN offices with tours, complimentary hors d’oeuvres and beverages. To RSVP, call Fabian Mera at The Apothecary Shops at 702-334-7149 or email fmera@theapothecaryshop.com. Before joining The Apothecary Shop as a sales representative, Mera spent nine years as AFAN Director of Operations.
The Apothecary Shops, one of the nation’s foremost chain of independent full-service pharmacies, did not slow down during 2009 and doesn’t plan to in 2010. The company added 29 new positions in 2009 including executives, pharmacists, technicians and support staff, an increase of 17.4%, and expects to fill at least 30 new jobs to start the second decade of the 21st century. The Apothecary Shops has 180 employees, 150 in Arizona. The company’s first Las Vegas pharmacy is located at 10050 Banburry Cross Drive, # 110.
With $105 million in projected revenues for 2009, an increase from $82 million in 2008, The Apothecary Shops operates 16 free-standing pharmacies in Arizona, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Albuquerque, Salt Lake City and Columbus, Ohio with additional locations to be announced soon.
In addition, during 2009 the company completed construction of a 5,000 square foot clean room and opened a new 19,000 state-of-the-art mail-order fulfillment center.
For more information, visit www.theapothecaryshop.com. For more information about AFAN, visit www.afan.org.
About AID for AIDS of Nevada (AFAN)
AID for AIDS of Nevada (AFAN) was founded in 1984 and is the oldest and largest AIDS service organization in the state of Nevada. Their unyielding commitment to the community provides unparalleled health expertise, support and advocacy for adults and children living with and affected by HIV/AIDS in southern Nevada. Over the years, AFAN has created various programs that offer consistent and comprehensive assistance including direct client service programs, food programs, prevention and education programs and community outreach. As part of AFAN’s mission, these client service programs assist in enhancing the physical health and psychosocial wellness of the individuals they serve, while promoting dignity and improving the quality of their lives. For more information, please visit www.afanlv.org.
About The Apothecary Shops
The Apothecary Shops is one of the foremost chain of independent full-service pharmacies with specialties in infectious disease, veterinary medicine, oncology, ophthalmology, fertility, pain management, women’s health, transplant, compounding and sports health. A National Specialty Pharmacy, The Apothecary Shops has provided individualized care and support to patients since 1996. The clinical pharmacists and staff members are experts in managing complex disease states and providing compassionate care. The Apothecary Shops offer a nationwide specialty mail-order service to complement 16 physical practices. For more information, visit www.theapothecaryshop.com.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - May 1, 2008
THE APOTHECARY SHOPS WILL BE DISTRIBUTOR OF PHASEAL®
CLOSED-SYSTEM DRUG TRANSFER DEVICE FOR VCA HOSPITALS
Phoenix-Based Pharmacy Will Help Teach Safe-Handling Strategy in 400+ Animal Clinics
CONTACT:
Hamilton Baiden, The Apothecary Shops, (602) 881-5389
Dr. Steve Fisher, VCA Animal Hospitals, (800) 966-1822
Steve Carr, The Kur Carr Group, Inc., (602) 253-5838
Phoenix, Ariz. -- The Apothecary Shops has signed an agreement to be the provider of PhaSeal® -- the nation’s only clinically proven closed-system drug transfer device to more than 400 VCA Animal Hospitals, the largest network of freestanding animal hospitals in the United States.
The PhaSeal® System is unique in that it prevents the release of contaminants and hazardous drug vapors and aerosols that result when mixing chemicals used for intravenous chemotherapy for animals. Studies have shown that exposure to these agents are associated with a variety of both short-term and long-term health effects such as miscarriage, infertility, pre-term labor, birth defects, skin rashes and possibly leukemia or other cancers. The Apothecary Shops also will assist VCA in implementing its robust safe-handling strategy at all VCA facilities handling chemotherapy.
The Apothecary Shops is the foremost chain of independent full-service pharmacies with specialties in veterinary medicine, oncology, ophthalmology, fertility, infectious disease, pain management, women’s health, transplant, compounding and sports health.
VCA Animal Hospitals is a wholly owned subsidiary of VCA Antech, Inc. (NASDAQ Global Market Select: WOOF) which operates and manages more than 435 animal hospitals in 38 states.
“VCA’s proactive approach to safety will reshape how the veterinary profession looks at and handles chemotherapy drugs,” said Dr. Brett Cordes, DVM, Medical Director of Veterinary Pharmacy for The Apothecary Shops. “With oncology becoming a larger component of the veterinary profession, it is essential that the issue of chemotherapy contamination be addressed. As a market driver and a market leader, VCA is setting the standard.”
With more than 14 peer-reviewed, independent published studies available, the PhaSeal® System has been distinguished as ‘The Gold Standard’ in safe handling and is the only device that meets the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) definition of a closed system. PhaSeal’s double-membrane and sealed expansion chamber ensures airtight and leakproof transfers of drugs to prevent exposure to veterinary office staff.
For information about The Apothecary Shops, visit www.theapothecaryshop.com. For more information about VCA Antech, visit www.vcaantech.com.
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About VCA Antech
VCA Antech (NASDAQ Global Market Select: WOOF) is the leading provider of pet health care services in the country with a nationwide clinical laboratory system and over 435 freestanding animal hospitals. VCA Antech’s excellent reputation in the pet health care industry has been established by acquiring and managing high quality veterinary practices and providing preeminent diagnostic laboratory services for animal hospitals across the country. For information, visit www.vcaantech.com.
About The Apothecary Shops
The Apothecary Shops is the foremost chain of independent full-service pharmacies with specialties in veterinary medicine, oncology, ophthalmology, fertility, infectious disease, pain management, women’s health, transplant, compounding and sports health. A National Specialty Pharmacy, The Apothecary Shops has provided individualized care and support to patients since 1996. The clinical pharmacists and staff members are experts in managing complex disease states and providing compassionate care. The Apothecary Shops offer a nationwide specialty mail-order service to complement 13 physical practices. For more information, visit www.theapothecaryshop.com.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - April 11, 2008
THE APOTHECARY SHOPS WILL DONATE $8000 IN MENTAL-HEALTH, GENERAL MEDICATIONS TO HOMEBASE YOUTH SERVICES’ MEDICAL TEAM
“If We Don’t Take Care of These Issues, We’ll Never Be Able To Address the Homelessness Issue:” Dr. Randy Christensen
CONTACT:
Hamilton Baiden, The Apothecary Shops, (602) 881-5389
Martha Ostrom, HomeBase Youth Services, (602) 263-7773
Dr. Randy Christensen, (602) 908-7755
Steve Carr, The Kur Carr Group, Inc., (602) 253-5838
PHOENIX, Ariz. -- Dr. Randy Christensen sees the kids and knows their numbers: 66 percent of homeless and at-risk youth suffer from depression, 44 percent have attempted suicide and 20 percent experience hallucinations unrelated to drugs.
A new relationship between HomeBase Youth Services, which rescues homeless teens from the streets, and The Apothecary Shops, a Phoenix-based national specialty pharmacy, will help Dr. Christensen and his medical team take important steps toward both.
The Apothecary Shops will donate $8,000 in medications, primarily to address mental health issues, following on-site examination, assessment and diagnosis by Dr. Christensen and Diane Roth, a nurse practitioner trained in psychiatry and employed by HomeBase at the Dustin D. Wolfswinkel Center for Youth, a day center for homeless youth.
“Homeless kids will have about double the mental health issues you’ll find in the general population,” Dr. Christensen said. “Medications for mental health are expensive and would eat away our budget. What The Apothecary Shops has done is a great benefit to the kids because it allows us to meet our mission of being a holistic primary care provider. It’s fantastic.”
Dr. Christensen said the mental-health medications would be prescribed for youth examined at the Dustin Center “but who are in a stable situation by being in a group home or shelter or living at the HomeBase Transitional Living Center so we can have some help following up with them.”
Other medications needed by the youth also would be provided by The Apothecary Shops.
“What this means for the youth we serve is that those in need of medications can be treated on site because of the generous support from donors like The Apothecary Shops,” said Martha Ostrom, Interim President for HomeBase Youth Services.
Hamilton Baiden, Vice President of Marketing and Sales for The Apothecary Shops, said the decision to build a partnership with HomeBase and Dr. Christensen “was an easy decision for us to make because we know the incredible work that Dr. Christensen and HomeBase are doing in the community to help turn these kids’ lives around.”
In 2007, Dr. Christensen was named a CNN “Medical Marvel” for his work with the Crews’n Healthmobile, a mobile healthcare service for homeless teens that is operated by HomeBase in partnership with Phoenix Children’s Hospital. He was named a Healthcare Hero in 2006 by The Business Journal and, this past February, received the Dr. Richard Carmona Doorway of Hope Award from HomeBase.
“When you think of the reasons that prompt a young person to live on the streets, it’s mind boggling,” Baiden said. “As a community, we need to do what we can for them.”
The Apothecary Shops, A National Specialty Pharmacy, has pharmacies in Glendale, Gilbert, Phoenix, Scottsdale, Tempe, Tucson, Las Vegas, Salt Lake City and Columbus, Ohio.
For more information about HomeBase Youth Services, visit www.hbys.org. For more information about The Apothecary Shops, visit www.theapothecaryshop.com.
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About HomeBase Youth Services
Did you know…there are thousands of homeless youth living each day on the streets of Arizona?
HomeBase Youth Services is an Arizona-based, non-profit organization founded in 1991 to address the growing needs of at-risk and homeless youth age 21 and younger. The programs and services we offer include Street Outreach, Mobile Medical Outreach, Employment and Life Skills Training, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Care, a Resource Center, a Transitional Living Program, and an Independent Living Program. HomeBase Youth Services provides real-life solutions to the physical, mental and emotional abuse and neglect these youth have suffered for far too long. For information, visit www.hbys.org.
About The Apothecary Shops
The Apothecary Shops is the foremost chain of independent full-service pharmacies with specialties in veterinary medicine, oncology, ophthalmology, fertility, infectious disease, pain management, women’s health, transplant, sports health and compounding. A National Specialty Pharmacy, The Apothecary Shops has provided individualized care and support to patients since 1996. Our clinical pharmacists and staff members are experts in managing complex disease states and providing compassionate care. The Apothecary Shops offer a nationwide specialty mail-order service to complement 13 physical practices. For more information, visit www.theapothecaryshop.com.