Pharmacy Opens in Hill District

For the first time in ten years, a pharmacy is open for business in Pittsburgh's Hill District. Duquesne University's Center for Pharmacy Services is located at 1860 Center Avenue in the Triangle Shops. But Dr. Douglas Bricker, head of the university's School of Pharmacy says it won't look like your typical pharmacy; Customers will be met by a staff member who will counsel them in private about their prescription. The Center will also provide follow-up visits that include blood pressure and cholesterol measurements to see if chronic disease states are being held in check. The pharmacy will be fully staffed and will also serve as an on-site training facility for Duquesne pharmacy students. Bricker says the proximity to the university made it a natural fit. "It is our intention to be better neighbors...and it's also intended to help a population, a predominantly elderly population, but a population that hasn't had a pharmacy in the last ten years. They've had to travel a distance in order to receive their medication." He says they will offer the same medications customers can find in any full service pharmacy, with an exception, "because of the Catholic mission of Duquesne University, we will not be dispensing birth control medications, however, patients will be directed to where they may be able to receive those medications if necessary." The pharmacy will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday.