Shoppers evolves into a health care hub, but Loblaw faces scrutiny over its growing role
Loblaw Cos. Ltd. is reimagining its Shoppers Drug Mart stores, with a focus on integrating health care services.
In a report by The Globe and Mail, the Burlington, Ontario, location exemplifies this shift, offering travel vaccinations, cholesterol screening, and pharmacist consultations for various conditions.
This transformation is part of Loblaw's broader strategy to expand its role in Canada's health care system, following its 2014 acquisition of Shoppers Drug Mart Corp. Loblaw has invested in telemedicine, physiotherapy clinics, and electronic medical record-keeping, aiming to fill gaps in the Canadian medical system.
Shoppers Drug Mart locations like Burlington, with consultation rooms and care coordinators, represent the company's vision of the “future of pharmacy.”
Jeff Leger, president of Shoppers Drug Mart, acknowledges the growing role of pharmacists in health care, stating, “There’s a lack of access to physicians… So, people are turning to pharmacists and other professionals to help fill those gaps.”
However, the increasing involvement of private enterprises in health care has sparked debates about the role of corporations like Loblaw in a publicly funded system.
Loblaw's expansion into health care has faced criticism. Some of its pharmacists have reported feeling pressured to prioritize profits over patient care.
Earlier this year, a deal with Manulife Financial Corp. to exclusively deliver some specialty drugs led to public outcry, resulting in Manulife retracting the agreement. Loblaw has since been working to rebuild trust with consumers and patients.
Loblaw's integration of its health care businesses is evident in its recent investments. The company acquired Lifemark Health Group, a network of over 300 clinics, and QHR Corp., an electronic medical record-keeping service.
These investments aim to create a more comprehensive health care experience, with pharmacists collaborating with other health professionals.
Critics, like Jason MacLean, chair of the Canadian Health Coalition, express concerns about the increasing role of private companies in health care, questioning whether profit-driven corporations like Loblaw should be trusted with such responsibilities.
The recent bread price-fixing scandal and accusations of price gouging have further shaken public trust in Loblaw.
Despite these challenges, Loblaw remains committed to expanding its health care services. The company plans to open more pharmacy care clinics, with a goal of reaching 250 locations by 2025.
Leger emphasizes that pharmacists can handle a significant portion of the tasks traditionally managed by physicians, positioning Loblaw as a key player in the evolving health care landscape.
