Atwood Pharmacy A family-owned independent pharmacy that works for you by Jennifer Coates In today’s world of big box chain stores, nothing seems less personal than a big box pharmacy store. Long lines of customers who “take a number ” to hold their place in the queue. Aisles lined with knick knacks, crunchy snacks, and random incidentals. A huge corporation which directs from some distant office, far from the faces and people it serves. For many, these chain stores feel like their only option. Where else, they ask, can they get the much needed and closely safeguarded medications they so often urgently need? Well, Zahan Akbar, a Rhode-Island raised Doctor of pharmacy, is here to tell you that there is not only another option to the big box stores, there is a far better option. That option is a familyowned, independent pharmacy, one just like his newly opened pharmacy in Johnston. 30 Shop In RI
Zahan Akbar graduated from URI’s College of Pharmacy in 2015. He is from a long line of family members who own independent pharmacies in Maryland and New York and who laid the foundation for what would become his own important work. In addition to this family legacy, Akbar is also married to a Yaleeducated clinical pharmacist, his wife, Hania. This is a family commitment at every level, both personal and professional. Following his graduation from URI, Akbar left Rhode Island and worked for five years as a manager of two CVS pharmacies in Connecticut. While in these capacities, he filled thousands of prescriptions but when he left this well-known retail chain, he may have felt more learned, but he definitely felt less connected to his profession ~ and to his customers. This experience led to the realization of a different kind of vision, the inception of
Atwood Pharmacy. Atwood Pharmacy opened its doors in late June. Today, the pharmacy literally gleams with newness with its sparkling white walls, meticulously stocked shelves, and opento-view, secure section for your prescription medications. Behind the counter, you will meet Dr. Akbar and his able Pharmacy Manager, Jester Lippert. Lippert, a Cranston native, also adds his considerable business acumen to this fledgling business. This dynamic duo is completely invested in the care and safety of their customers. Akbar and Leppert are joined by longtime pharmacist Greg Natale who, after years in the field, lends his expertise as a parttime pharmacist and consultant. The goal of this unified team is to turn what is thought of as an “Option Three” into the ONLY option for the residents of
