The Municipality of the District of St. Mary’s in Sherbrooke, N.S., is seeking to attract a new pharmacy as the only existing drugstore is closing permanently this month. Sherbrooke resident Maryann Cameron expressed concern over the impact, particularly on seniors, stating that the lack of services could deter people from moving to the village.
After operating out of a temporary trailer due to structural issues with the leased building, Shoppers Drug Mart will close its Sherbrooke location on June 11. The nearest pharmacy will then be about 60 kilometers away in Antigonish, making prescription pickups a time-consuming task for residents.
In response, the municipality is inviting proposals through an expression of interest to establish a sustainable pharmacy presence within the area. This could involve purchasing or leasing municipal property and potentially offering interim pharmacy services while a new building is developed.
The municipality is considering redeveloping a former restaurant building owned by them as a possible location for the new pharmacy. In the meantime, prescription pickup services are expected to be available at the library, although without an on-site pharmacist.
Local authorities are exploring alternatives to ensure essential services for the community, as the loss of in-person pharmacy services poses challenges. Warden James Fuller highlighted the need for support amidst economic opportunities such as wind energy development, emphasizing the importance of retaining vital services.
Expressions of interest for the new pharmacy are being reviewed, with a decision expected from the municipal council as early as July. Plans are in place for temporary prescription services, and discussions with area seniors are ongoing to address delivery options in the absence of a local pharmacy.
