Sale of Nokomis Pharmacy forces town to consider new healthcare solution

Nokomis Pharmacy in May of 2023. (Photo Source: Google Street View)

The Town of Nokomis could lose local pharmacy access as its only drugstore heads to auction — prompting council to push a new community-run solution.

In a letter posted to the town’s Facebook page, the town council says the Nokomis Pharmacy has been listed for auction through the McDougall Auction site by its owner, the James Pharmacy Group.

According to council, the sale includes conditions that could limit pharmacy services in the building for years. If sold, a non-competition clause would prevent a new pharmacy from operating in the same location for three years. In addition, over-the-counter medications and pharmacy-related goods would be capped at 15 per cent of total annual sales.

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Council says it attempted to have the property removed from auction to allow time to negotiate a sale and secure continued pharmacy services, but was unsuccessful.

“With this response, it leaves the community with a decision to make,” the letter states. “Do we allow one person to stand in the way of providing pharmacy services to the community…or do we establish our own pharmacy?”

What’s the solution?

The town is proposing a new, purpose-built facility — the Nokomis Wellness Centre — to house a pharmacy and expand local health services.

They say the centre would provide a permanent home for a new pharmacy, expanded healthcare services such as massage therapy and pediatrics, space for visiting or local health professionals, serve as a wellness hub for activities like yoga classes and fitness programs.

The proposal is tied to anticipated regional growth, including the nearby BHP Jansen Mine project. The project estimates that it could bring between 800 and 900 permanent workers to the area, along with new families and increased demand for services.

Call to the community

Residents and potential investors are being encouraged to get involved, to meet the future demand.

Council adds the town has a history of stepping in to maintain pharmacy services and support the local health centre and says this may be another moment requiring community action.

“Now is the time to invest and take the risk, not retreat into self-interest,” the letter states.

“We are a strong, proud and resilient community. Let’s take on this challenge and prevail like we have so many times before.”