GIVE THE GIFT THAT WILL LAST A LIFETIME

Valentine’s Day is tomorrow and it’s not a coincidence that American Heart Month coincides with this holiday. Unfortunately, there are still so many individuals who believe it is necessary to be in a “relationship” to participate in the gift giving festivities of Valentine’s Day. But the joy of giving and receiving is that it can go beyond “relationships” and focus on the one person you should prioritize the most – YOU!

That is why, this year, try giving something different. Be thoughtful and generous by giving a gift that will last a lifetime. Maximize your Life Expectancy by Giving the Gift of a Healthy Heart! #AmericanHeartMonth

Here are some ALTERNATE GIFT SUGGESTIONS:

DARK CHOCOLATE: Well, not really an alternate, but of course the suggestions have to start with chocolate. It is Valentine’s Day, after all. But instead of reaching for the white or milk chocolate, substitute it with dark. Studies have shown that dark chocolate can have benefits for your heart when consumed in moderation. According to the Cleveland Clinic, “Flavanols are the main type of flavonoid found in cocoa and chocolate. In addition to having antioxidant qualities, research shows that flavanols have other potential influences on vascular health, such as lowering blood pressure, improving blood flow to the brain and heart, and making blood platelets less sticky and able to clot.” [1]

Stony Point Pharmacy is a proud retailer of both CHOCOLATE PLACE CHOCOLATES & LUCAS CANDIES, and can provide help in searching for the perfect Dark Chocolate Gift to fit your budgetary needs.

RAW HONEY: Raw Honey has become a staple suggestion for health promotion in the last few years, but it is often mistaken for any honey. It has a number of benefits, but as it pertains to the heart, can aid in lowering cholesterol and high blood pressure. There are two types of honey, Raw and Commercial. Most of us, when we go to the supermarket, intend to do the right thing for our health and purchase honey. Quite often, though, what is sold in the supermarket is Commercial Honey. Commercial Honey is heavily processed and exposed to high heat which destroys the natural enzymes, vitamins and minerals. Raw Honey is not filtered in this same regard and is not exposed to a heat above 95 degrees, which is the temperature of the beehive. This is turn, preserves the natural enzymes, vitamins and minerals. Your best bet is to purchase local honey, as the bees are exposed to the local vegetation.

Stony Point Pharmacy has teamed with PRITCHETT APIARIES of Pearl River, NY to provide their source of local honey. They offer packaged honey which would make a thoughtful gift. According to their description, their product is “naturally foraged honey from the bounty of Lower Hudson Valley and Bergen County NJ.”

YOGA CLASS: The benefits of yoga have long been studied and, according to Julie Corliss, Executive Editor of the Harvard Heart Letter, “Performing a variety of yoga postures gently stretches and exercises muscles … Deep breathing can help lower blood pressure. Mind-calming meditation … quiets the nervous system and eases stress. All of these improvements may help prevent heart disease, and can definitely help people with cardiovascular problems.” This makes for a great opportunity for a gift for your significant other and yourself. The suggestion is to take a block of classes to find both the class which is most suited for you and the instructor which you feel most comfortable. [2]

The North Rockland area has several different locations which offer Yoga Classes.

EXERCISE ROUTINE: By now, any good intention to begin an exercise routine as a New Year’s Resolution has faded, and that’s okay. Alas, redemption! The joy of an exercise routine as a New Year’s Resolution is it does not have wait until next January!  February is American Heart Month, which means, any day is a good day to begin an exercise routine. But for Valentine’s Day, what better gift to give yourself than an activity which will make you stronger, more focused, feel better, and most importantly, give your heart the workout it craves! You’ve wanted an excuse to start an exercise routine, now is the perfect opportunity. DAILY BURN has suggestions for Valentine’s Day workouts WITH your partner. (Disclaimer: ALWAYS consult with your physician before beginning any workout routine to ensure you will not put yourself at risk for injury.)

For More Information: SCHEDULE AN ONLINE CONSULTATION

BLOOD PRESSURE MONITOR: This is by far the least sexy of the items on this list, but it is one of the most practical and has its benefits. If you’ve been diagnosed with High Blood Pressure, it is always recommended you monitor your blood pressure. The automatic Blood Pressure Monitor is not a glamorous item to own, which is why you may have been putting off purchasing one.  If you need an excuse to purchase it, here it is: According the the National Institute of Health Research, “People with high blood pressure are more likely to have their blood pressure controlled after 12 months if they self-monitor AND receive counselling … compared with usual monitoring in the clinic.” Recommendations for monitoring your Blood Pressure can be found by clicking this link to the AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION. [3] 

STONY POINT PHARMACY is a retailer of OMRON PRODUCTS, and will guide you to the monitor which will best suit your needs.

As always, Stony Point Pharmacy would like to thank all of their customers for their continued patronage.

If there are any questions about this, or any other post, please contact Kenneth Pearson at: kennethpearson@stonypointpharmacy.net.

YOU MAY ALSO SCHEDULE AN ONLINE CONSULTATION BY CLICKING HERE!

NOTE: This post is intended to provide suggestions and is not intended to take the place of any medical advice provided by your physician. If you are unsure about its content, please contact Kenneth Pearson at the above e-mail address. You may also contact your physician for further clarification, as they are the most versed in your healthcare, and will be able to provide you with ample guidance.

VISIT STONY POINT PHARMACY ONLINE

*Stony Point Pharmacy is an independent pharmacy located in Stony Point, NY. It has been in operation since 1956, with the current owner in operation since 1985. 

#AmericanHeartMonth #StonyPointPharmacy #notjustanypharmacy

TIPS FOR A HEALTHY HEART

February is AMERICAN HEART MONTH, and there has never been a more urgent time to become acquainted with your heart. Whether you are an 80-year-old or a 20-year-old, new parameters have been adapted which could impact the way you approach your healthcare and life choices.

SCHEDULE AN ONLINE CONSULTATION

In November of 2017, the American Heart Association published new guidelines for what is now considered High Blood Pressure. Previously, the threshold for High Blood Pressure would be measured at 140/90 or above. Now, the new guidelines decreased this threshold level to 130/80 or above.

According to the American Heart Association, “The change [in guidelines] means 46 percent of U.S. adults are identified as having high blood pressure, compared with 32 percent under the previous definition. A blood pressure of less than 120/80 still will be considered normal, but levels at or above that, to 129, will be called ‘elevated.'”

So what does this mean for you?

It means you must begin to consider your life choices. Having an ‘elevated’ level does not necessarily mean you have to begin taking medications, but it does mean you have to be monitored and consider a lifestyle change.

Here are a few suggestions:

GET AN ANNUAL PHYSICAL: Many individuals do not like to go to their physician unless they are sick. We all have busy lives and taking a few hours to be evaluated does not seem like an enjoyable experience or the best use of valuable time. But getting an annual physical will provide the physician with a sample of your medical history which can be used to determine the best route of therapy if treatment is required. It also gives the individual the opportunity to be proactive, so treatment does not have to begin at a critical juncture. You can check your risk by using the calculator below.

CARDIOVASCULAR RISK CALCULATOR

EXERCISE: “Adults should get at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity [spread out over the course of the] week” (Mayo Clinic). This can be as little as 30-minutes of walking 5 days per week or a 25-minute high intensive workout 3 days per week. Most adults do not want to exercise, and do not believe they have the time to do so. But, by setting this time aside each week, it can have long term benefits for your health. Go for a run, walk through the woods, or dance. Anything is better than a sedentary life.

RUN/WALK A 5K: AN 8 WEEK COUCH to 5K PROGRAM

EAT HEALTHY: Over the last decade, there has been a movement in the United States for individuals to become more health conscious and incorporate healthier options into their diets. Some of the suggestions for a healthy heart diet include choosing low-fat protein sources such as lean ground meats, fish, eggs, and legumes; reducing the sodium content by using more herbs & spices; eating more natural fruits & vegetables; decreasing sugar content; and controlling portion sizes. As you incorporate this diet, you will not only begin to feel more energetic, but it may decrease your waistline as well.

LAUGH MORE, LAUGH OFTEN: You read that correctly. Enjoy your life. LAUGH MORE & LAUGH OFTEN! Studies have shown laughing releases natural mood enhancing chemicals such as Dopamine, Endorphins, GABA, Oxytocin, etc. which may decrease stress levels and lower your blood pressure. And the more you laugh, the less stress you may feel. Laughter should not be a substitute for other methods and traditional blood pressure treatments, but it certainly cannot hurt. So today’s prescription: Watch a Good Comedy!

LISTEN TO THE MUSIC YOU LOVE: Just like laughing, listening to the music you love can also reduce stress. This, in-turn, can lower your blood pressure. Even if you do not prefer Classical Music, it is recommended you spend a little time each day listening to it to help relax and decrease stress.

QUIT SMOKING: In 2018, it is no secret smoking does not have any health benefits. There are countless medical journals and studies which can be offered as support to this claim. The chemicals in tobacco can damage the function of your heart and blood vessels, and increases your risk of Atherosclerosis, Coronary Heart Disease (CHD), and Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD). By quitting smoking, you decrease your risk of developing these and other medical conditions. Recent studies have extended the potential risks associated with smoking to E-Cigarettes (Vaping), although the risks are significantly lower than traditional smoking products. If you would like more information regarding smoking cessation, please contact us!

DECREASE EXCESSIVE CAFFEINE & ALCOHOL INTAKE: Anything in excess can have a negative impact on an individual’s health, but caffeine and alcohol in excess can raise blood pressure, even if temporarily. This can put an individual already at risk for heart attack and stroke at even greater risk. The suggestion, according to the Mayo Clinic, is if you have to have coffee or alcohol, to drink no more than TWO 8-ounce standard cups of coffee per day and to drink no more than 4 to 5 alcoholic beverages per week spread out. In moderation, coffee and wine have certain health benefits, but in excess, can be detrimental to an individual’s health by constricting blood vessels and forcing the heart to work harder to distribute oxygen rich blood.

As always, Stony Point Pharmacy would like to thank all of their customers for their continued patronage.

If there are any questions about this, or any other post, please contact Kenneth Pearson at: kennethpearson@stonypointpharmacy.net.

YOU MAY ALSO SCHEDULE AN ONLINE CONSULTATION BY CLICKING HERE!

NOTE: This post is intended to provide suggestions and is not intended to take the place of any medical advice provided by your physician. If you are unsure about its content, please contact Kenneth Pearson at the above e-mail address. You may also contact your physician for further clarification, as they are the most versed in your healthcare, and will be able to provide you with ample guidance.

VISIT STONY POINT PHARMACY ONLINE

*Stony Point Pharmacy is an independent pharmacy located in Stony Point, NY. It has been in operation since 1956, with the current owner in operation since 1985.

Tips to Create a Better Pharmacy Experience

The pharmacists at Stony Point Pharmacy understand most individuals do not want to come to the pharmacy to get medication. Many times it means they are not feeling well because they are dealing with some form of illness, and the last thing they want is a negative or inefficient experience.

While the pharmacists work diligently to create a positive experience, here are several tips you can adapt to help create a better pharmacy experience for yourself as well. These suggestions are not restricted to Stony Point Pharmacy customers, but for anyone who visits a pharmacy.

EDUCATE YOURSELF REGARDING THE MEDICATIONS YOU ARE PRESCRIBED. Too often, the pharmacists encounter individuals who do not know what medications they are taking or why they are taking them. Many times, these are also maintenance medications – medications they may have been prescribed for a prolonged period of time. Take time to get to know your medications, what their basic function is, and why you are taking them. Know their physical characteristics, so if there is ever a discrepancy, you will be able to identify it. If your medication looks different, reach out to your pharmacist. Manufacturers are constantly changing, and not all forms of the medication look the same. Speaking only for the pharmacists at Stony Point Pharmacy, they appreciate these phone calls because it is another way they can be checked.

Stony Point Pharmacy offers ONLINE CONSULTATIONS via SKYPE.

CLICK HERE TO SCHEDULE YOUR 15-20 MINUTE APPOINTMENT TODAY!

TRY AVOIDING PEAK HOURS. Retail pharmacy does not have the same traditional busy days as other retail venues. Where most other retail venues are busy on the weekends, retail pharmacy stores are typically their slowest. Surprisingly, Monday is, by far, the busiest day of the week in retail pharmacy, followed by Tuesday. By avoiding these two days with non-urgent matters or refills, you will be less likely to encounter an experience in which you feel rushed. Further, scheduling your visit to the pharmacy, particularly Stony Point Pharmacy, outside of their first business hour and immediately following school hours on the weekdays, you will find fewer individuals competing for the pharmacist’s attention.

REFILLS. Know how many refills you have remaining on your medication. When you are at the doctor’s office, ask the doctor to provide multiple refills on medications you are expected to take as maintenance. Request your refills 24-hours in advance. Most insurance plans permit medications to be filled after 80% completion, but this is not always the case. Do not wait until the last minute to refill medications to avoid possible issues. Many of these issues can be resolved within 24 hours. By doing this, you will avoid a potential lapse in medication therapy.

AT THE DOCTOR’S OFFICE. With the high cost of medication co-pays, it is important you ask your doctor to prescribe generically wherever possible. Many times, these medications are cheaper and readily available. Brand name medications, in many cases, have generic alternatives. This means even though the brand name medication may not have a generic available, there may be a generic alternative available in the same class of medications. Also, Prior Authorizations have become increasingly prevalent on brand names medications, and can take up to a week’s time to resolve (although most are resolved within 24 to 48 business hours). This can be avoided by asking the doctor to prescribe generically.

DEVELOP A RELATIONSHIP WITH THE PHARMACIST. ONLINE CONSULTATIONS Get to know your pharmacist. The pharmacist and pharmacy staff at Stony Point Pharmacy are there to help you better your healthcare. That means, they are there to provide information to you as it pertains to your medications and other healthcare concerns. Do not be afraid to reach out to them and ask questions.

IF POSSIBLE, FILL YOUR MEDICATIONS AT THE SAME PHARMACY. Filling your medications at the same pharmacy permits the pharmacist to continuously check for medication interactions. This will enable your pharmacist to become more efficient in recommending medications and suggesting alternative medication therapy. If you do not fill you medications at the same pharmacy, let your pharmacist know what other medications you are taking so they can check medication interactions for your safety.

KNOW YOUR INSURANCE. It is important to understand the parameters set forth by your insurance plan in terms of co-pay structure and medication coverage. This will save you an enormous amount of frustration. While Stony Point Pharmacy tries to know the parameters of each plan, it is very difficult to do so because of the number of different plans and sub-plans. If you have a new insurance plan, be sure to bring the associated cards with you during your next visit to the store.

OVER-THE-COUNTER MEDICATIONS & VITAMINS. If you are taking any over-the-counter medications and vitamins, please be sure to inform the pharmacist. If you have medical issues, such as High Blood Pressure or Diabetes, it is extremely important to let the pharmacist know of these and other conditions prior to purchasing an over-the-counter medication or vitamin. Oftentimes, there is nothing to be concerned with, but that does not mean there is not a possibility of an interaction.

PHARMACIES HAVE REGULATIONS TO FOLLOW. Please know, the pharmacy wants to fill your medication. It is the lifeline of their business. But, regulations are set by the insurance company, state, DEA, and sometimes by Stony Point Pharmacy themselves which regulates the dispensing of medications, particularly controlled substances. Stony Point Pharmacy has enacted their own uniform minimum completion rate policy for both non-controlled and controlled medications. Please feel free to inquiry about our store policy on this matter.

As always, the staff at Stony Point Pharmacy thanks you for your continued patronage, and wish to continue enhancing your pharmacy experience. If you have any questions, please email Kenneth Pearson at kennethpearson@stonypointpharmacy.net.

*Stony Point Pharmacy is an independent pharmacy located in Stony Point, NY. It has been in operation since 1956, with the current owner in operation since 1985.

12 SUGGESTIONS FOR THE FLU SEASON

As the influenza season reaches full capacity, it is important to be reminded of basic procedures to minimize the possibility of both contracting and spreading the virus. Additionally, these recommendations may help keep your family and friends healthy, as well.

Following these and other suggestions may significantly decrease the possibility of contracting the influenza virus and/or passing it on to others.

1. Wash Your Hands Frequently. According to the CDC, properly washing your hands is still the most effective way to prevent the spread of the influenza virus. It is recommended to wash your hands before, during, and after preparing food; before eating food; before and after caring for someone who is sick; before and after treating a cut or wound; after using the toilet; after changing diapers or cleaning up a child who has used the toilet; after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing; after touching an animal, animal feed, or animal waste; and after touching garbage. To watch a video showing how to properly wash your hands, CLICK HERE. [CDC]
2. Avoid Contact With Those Who Are Infected. Although this is not always a possibility, attempting to avoid contact with those who are infected with the influenza virus will decrease your chances of becoming infected. There are procedures to follow if you must be around those who are sick, such as frequently washing your hands and wearing a mask, so be proactive in your approach.
3. Stay Away from Others If You Are Infected. This is simple – if you are sick, STAY HOME! Your colleagues, friends, and family members will appreciate the fact you are not exposing them to the virus. If it is imperative to be in public, be cognizant of others – WEAR A MASK, DISINFECT, and DO NOT GET TOO CLOSE TO THEM!
4. Boost Your Immune System Through Healthy Living. It is no secret that, more-often-than-not, those who live a healthier life have a stronger immune system. Exercise, diet, and sleep are key components to healthy living. Those who exercise do not necessarily boost their immune system, but instead create the foundation for living a healthier lifestyle which may, in-turn, create a stronger immune system. The body also becomes equipped to handle sickness and recover more quickly. / Colorful fruits and vegetables, garlic, and whole grains have all been proven to be beneficial in increasing the functionality of the immune system. Incorporating these foods into your diet may help boost your immune system. / Lastly, sleep is important in both preventing and healing your illness. According to WebMD, “It turns out that lack of sleep really may make us more prone to catching colds and the [influenza virus … because] sleep deprivation suppresses immune system function.” The recommendation is getting between 7 and 9 hours of sleep per night, but mostly, it is about regulating your sleep patterns by going to sleep and rising at the same time each day. [WebMD]
5. Wear a Mask. Wearing a mask can help prevent the spread of the influenza virus. According to Dr. James Steckelbery, “[Influenza] masks may help block airborne germs, and they may also prevent the transmission of germs from your hands to your mouth or nose.” Although their effectiveness may vary in prevention, it is recommended whomever has the flu should wear a mask if they are around other individuals. [Mayo Clinic]
6. Stay Well-Hydrated. Hydration is another key component to warding off and fighting the influenza virus because it promotes maximized organ function. It also encourages freely flowing blood which, in-turn, boosts the immune system function. It is recommended to drink between a total of 30 to 50 ounces of water daily, spread out throughout the course of the day.
7. Rest. Chances are, if you have the influenza virus, the last thing you are going to want to do is, well, anything. So, take the recommended time off and rest. The CDC recommends staying home at least 24 hours after your fever goes away, unless you need to leave the house for medical care or other urgent reasons. There are times and certain circumstances in which we do not have the luxury of fully resting because of parenting or a profession which requires our attention. The recommendation is to rest when you can. If you have the resources to hire a babysitter for a few days, do so. The more you can rest, the quicker you’ll get better! [WebMD]
8. Clean. If someone in your house is sick, be sure to disinfect any surface which they come in contact. Use Lysol or any other strong disinfectant.
9. Treat Your Symptoms. Treating your symptoms is the only way to combat the influenza virus. Unfortunately, there is no cure. But, there are Cold & Flu remedies which can help with the symptoms. Because of other medical factors which go into recommending a product (i.e. High Blood Pressure, Diabetes, Liver Diseases, etc.), recommendations can be made by consulting with one of the pharmacists at Stony Point Pharmacy. (If you are reading this outside of the North Rockland area or are not a current customer, we recommend contacting your local pharmacy or pharmacist.) Inhaling moist air has its benefits, as it may help loosen mucus in the nasal passages and/or lungs.
10. Be Hygienic. Be sure to cover your nose when you sneeze, cover your mouth when you cough (immediately wash your hands after both), and shower daily. Showering daily not only cleanses your skin and creates the ‘fresh’ feeling, but inhaling the steam may help with any respiratory problems which you may be suffering.
11. Attitude is Everything. This may be the hardest of all these recommendations. Studies have shown when an individual is sick and they maintain a positive attitude, the body sometimes responds by improving its physical health. This may not always be the case, but it will not hurt to approach having the influenza virus with a positive attitude! It will lift not only your spirits, but everyone else’s spirits around you.
12. Consult Your Physician or Healthcare Professional. Finally, consulting your physician is the only way which you can be prescribed an anti-viral medication, most notably, Oseltamivir (Tamiflu®). Oseltamivir is highly effective in decreasing the longevity and symptoms of the influenza virus, but it is not recommended for everyone, as it may have side effects for some. Only you and your Healthcare Professional can determine if this medication is right for you.

If there are any questions about this, or any other post, please contact Kenneth Pearson at: kennethpearson@stonypointpharmacy.net.

NOTE: This post is intended to provide suggestions and is not intended to take the place of any medical advice provided by your physician. If you are unsure about its content, please contact Kenneth Pearson at the above e-mail address. You may also contact your physician for further clarification, as they are the most versed in your healthcare, and will be able to provide you with ample guidance.

*Stony Point Pharmacy is an independent pharmacy located in Stony Point, NY. It has been in operation since 1956, with the current owner in operation since 1985.

Five Underutilized Services at STONY POINT PHARMACY

For decades, Stony Point Pharmacy has prided themselves in offering the best possible experience for their customers. They have striven to provide the North Rockland Community with the customer service experience they deserve.

“Customer service has always been at the heart of our business,” said Kenneth Pearson, Director of Quality Management & Strategic Planning. “This is one area it’s imperative to be better than our competition.”

But besides customer service, the question has often been posed: “What specifically do they offer?” Here is a list of five underutilized services you may not have known STONY POINT PHARMACY offers:

1. WATCH BATTERY INSTALLATION: For years, Stony Point Pharmacy has offered Watch Battery Installation at an affordable price. This extends to Car Entry Remotes, as well. They recommend changing your batteries once a year on or around Daylight Savings.
2. ONLINE CONSULTATIONS: In November 2017, Stony Point Pharmacy launched their Online Consultations via Skype. This service is meant to give customers the opportunity to get an in-depth understanding of the medications they are prescribed. Appointments are required, and online sessions can last up to 20 minutes. More, they are free to existing prescription customers. For More Information, CLICK HERE!
3. ONLINE GIFT STORE: The Online Gift Store was opened in October 2017, and features an alternate option for customers to shop. In addition to having their purchases mailed, they can also be picked up in-store. In 2018, the Online Gift Store is expected to see significant expansion and growth. Product payments can be made through PayPal. (SHOP NOW)
4. ONLINE REFILL REQUESTS via MobileScripts: In August 2017, Stony Point Pharmacy incorporated a new APP to assist in Prescription Refills and give customers a way to refill their prescriptions online or via the APP. Additionally, once the prescription is refilled online, it can be viewed in the Patient’s profile. (MobileScripts)
5. EVEN MORE WAYS TO CONNECT: Late 2017 also saw the expansion of Stony Point Pharmacy’s online presence to include (in addition to Facebook) Twitter, Instagram, WordPress, Tumblr, Google+, and LinkedIn.

For more information regarding these and other services, please visit StonyPointPharmacy.com, or follow them on the various social media platforms.

You can also direct any questions to Kenneth Pearson at: kennethpearson@stonypointpharmacy.net

*Stony Point Pharmacy is an independent pharmacy located in Stony Point, NY. It has been in operation since 1956, with the current owner operating the business since 1985.

STONY POINT PHARMACY’S Online Consultation Option Now Available Via SKYPE

In an effort to continue offering the best service possible, Stony Point Pharmacy is now providing Online Consultations via Skype.

The promotion of Online Consultations comes as part of their 2018 incentives to add more of a virtual presence to the business.

“We want individuals to have various ways to communicate with us,” said Kenneth Pearson, Director of Quality Management & Strategic Planning. “Online Consultations will not only be about medications, but will also be about any questions or concerns the individual may have.”

Appointment duration may vary, but will typically last about 15-20 minutes.

“Our initial intention is to provide an in-depth analysis of current medications, so the individual becomes more comfortable with what they are taking. Therefore, we would ask that individuals wishing to take advantage of this service to provide questions about 24 hours prior to the appointment. This will make for a more efficient analysis,” Pearson continued. “Beyond its initial intention, though, it is a platform meant to keep us connected with the community.”

Because of limited time slots available on a weekly basis, consultations will require an appointment, and can be made by e-mailing Kenneth at: kennethpearson@stonypointpharmacy.net, or by completing the appointment request form on the Online Consultation page of the Stony Point Pharmacy webpage.

“We are very excited to offer this service and really hope our customers take advantage of it,” Pearson added.

For more information about this and other services, please visit StonyPointPharmacy.com, or follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, Tumblr, & LinkedIn.

Thank You from STONY POINT PHARMACY

The staff at Stony Point Pharmacy would like to thank all of their loyal patrons for a successful 2017 business year.

Despite the many challenges endured this year, the highly supportive North Rockland Community has given Stony Point Pharmacy a very optimistic outlook for 2018.

“It never ceases to amaze me,” said David Carver, owner of Stony Point Pharmacy. “It seems like every time there is a new challenge about to negatively impact the business, the North Rockland Community refuses to let it happen. They’ve been extremely supportive since I took over in 1985, and I cannot thank them enough for their patronage.”

Carver credits the local outpouring of the community for the sustained growth in 2017.

“We dealt with significant personnel changes and different business challenges this year,” he said. “Overall, I would say this was the most challenging year I’ve ever had.”

“But, as always seems to be the case, the North Rockland Community stepped up and helped make it a successful year,” he continued.

Carver also credits his staff for approaching their new roles with an open-mind. By giving them more leeway and input, new approaches to business have been developed, and an optimism for a new and improved Stony Point Pharmacy in 2018 has arisen.

“This coming year, we want the community to be more involved with us, and we want to be more involved with them,” he said.

For more information regarding Stony Point Pharmacy, please visit their website at www.StonyPointPharmacy.com. You can also follow them on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, Google+, and Tumblr, for up-to-date information regarding sales and news.

STONY POINT PHARMACY Now Accepting Employment Applications to Pool for 2018

Stony Point Pharmacy announced on Tuesday, December 26, 2017, they will begin accepting applications to pool for employment for 2018.

“Pooling applications makes the hiring process much easier, and allows us to continuously screen for qualified candidates,” said Kenneth Pearson, Director of Quality Management & Strategic Planning.

Customer Service Advocates are most sought after, but all positions, from Managerial to part-time Pharmacists, are being considered.

For Customer Service Advocates:  Qualified candidates should have at least one year of retail experience with a minimum of a High School Diploma (Associates Degree preferred). Candidates should have a flexible schedule and be available to work days, evenings, and/or weekends. Strong customer service skills required.

For Managerial positions:  Qualified candidates should have one to two years of leadership experience, preferably in a Retail Setting; a minimum of an Associates Degree (Bachelors Degree preferred). Candidates should have a flexible schedule and understand the values and service of managing a small, community oriented business.

For part-time Pharmacist positions:  Qualified candidates should have a Pharmacy Degree from an accredited University; be a New York State Licensed & Registered Pharmacist in good standing with the New York State Pharmacy Board; be available to work once per week; be adaptable to evolving prescription programs; and understand the value of working in a small, community oriented pharmacy.

“We are pooling candidates because we’ve had a number of instances where we were looking for immediate hires and were left scrambling to fill positions. This takes that pressure off,” Pearson said. “Most importantly, it permits us to hire the best of the best.”

For more information or complete an online application, please visit http://www.StonyPointPharmacy.com. If you would like to attach a resume, please do so by e-mailing Kenneth Pearson at kennethpearson@stonypointpharmacy.net.

 

Stony Point Pharmacy Extends 15% Online Discount Through the End of 2017; 2018 to Present Big Changes, Challenges

In an effort to continue promoting the accessibility of their newly launched Online Gift Store (www.StonyPointPharmacy.com), Stony Point Pharmacy has extended its 15% Discount and Free USPS First Class Shipping through the end of 2017.

“It’s been somewhat slow, but I anticipated that,” said Kenneth Pearson, Director of Quality Management & Strategic Planning. “I didn’t expect customers to jump on board right away. They’re used to seeing the product in the store and purchasing it then, but the online platform offers another option. The initial intention was to make us more visible on the web.”

Since August 2017, they have continued to build their online presence by introducing the Online Gift Store, Online Consultations via Skype, and an increased presence on Social Media extending beyond Facebook, to platforms like WordPress, Twitter, and Instagram.

“We want our customers to realize how much we value them and their families, we want them to know how much we value their opinion, and we want the community to know how important they are to us. By extending further out through these online platforms, we are trying to bring the small town pharmacy into your home and to a larger audience. We are trying to reach out to those who may have moved away from Stony Point over the years. In 2018, we have plans to become a more visible, vocal, and accessible pharmacy.”

Some of those plans include the introduction of a Weekly Newsletter, Customer Surveys, Personalized Gift Baskets, E-Bay and Amazon Accounts, Custom Gift Cards, and even a Scholarship Fund.

“I’m excited for the plans we have for 2018, and I’m looking forward to the challenges it’ll pose,” Pearson said.

To receive up-to-date information to your inbox, please add this page to your favorites.

Stony Point Pharmacy Announces Expansion

Beginning December 1, 2017, Stony Point Pharmacy will hold a Grand Opening for their Online Gift Store located online at WWW.STONYPOINTPHARMACY.COM. In addition, they will also launch their Online Pharmacy Consultation Service via Skype to existing customers and continue to provide Online Refill Requests via MobileScripts.

As the independent pharmacy landscape has changed nationwide, Stony Point Pharmacy has remained a throwback in a community who continues to love and support their small business. But, as time has passed, new business approaches have been necessary to accommodate the growing demands of technological advancement.

“We are excited to be offering these new services. It’s been a long time coming,” Kenneth Pearson, Director of Quality Management & Strategic Planning, said. “We’ve been talking about doing this for years and decided now was the time. In the past few months, we’ve focused on expanding and evolving in the growing online market.”

The Online Gift Store will be stocked with books, baby clothing, blankets, jewelry, pet products, religious products, and many other items offered exclusively online. Shipping prices range up to $7.95 and are free if the item is shipped to the store for In-Store Pickup.

Additionally, Stony Point Pharmacy will now offer Online Pharmacy Consultation Services via Skype to existing customers free of charge. Sessions will last approximately 15 to 20 minutes. Customers will be asked to send a list of questions via e-mail to be answered 24 hours prior to the scheduled session. All sessions will require an appointment.

Continually, their MobileScripts APP and Online Refill Request Service has proven to be a success, and Stony Point Pharmacy is pleased to announce they will continue to implement this service indefinitely.

“We want to thank everyone who has continued to support us throughout the years and to thank all of our new clientele who have begun their journey with us,” Pearson said.

He added, “We want to continue to provide our clientele with the best service we can and hope these exciting new features make their experience with us even better for years to come.”

For more information, please contact us at inquiries@stonypointpharmacy.com or by phone at 845-942-1373.