Pharmacist continues tradition
Celebrates third anniversary
by JESSICA L. FINCH Associate Editor

Dennis Galluzzo has worked as a pharmacist for 40 years and still believes in old fashioned service and customer service. Owner of Family Medical Pharmacy, he celebrates his third anniversary in his own location. Photo by Joe Eberle Purchase color photos at www.BeeNews.com

Growing up in Buffalo, Dennis Galluzzo remembers the wisdom and concern his local pharmacist showed to his dad. When he was a teenager, he went to work at a pharmacy and saw the same old-fashioned customer service.

Knowing he wanted a career in science, Galluzzo chose pharmaceuticals after finding a mentor in his boss at Del-More Pharmacy.

"I saw how the community loved him," he said. "I thought it was an admirable profession."

Galluzzo has now been in the business for more than 40 years, working as a pharmacist since 1976.

This month marks the third anniversary of his own pharmacy, Family Medical Pharmacy, on Plaza Drive at Hopkins and Klein in the Dash's Plaza.

When Vix closed, Galluzzo had been working in its pharmacy since 1991.

"It was the perfect opportunity to live my dream of owning my own store," he said.

With his business partner, Michael Rossi, Galluzzo opened Family Medical Pharmacy. Galluzzo serves as president and supervising pharmacist, and Rossi carries the title of pharmacist.

Galluzzo said many of his clients from Vix followed him to his own store. And that is what is most important to him.

He greets his customers by first name and asks how they are doing. After filling a prescription he said he takes the time to talk to them, counseling them on the drug.

"When you take time to care it creates a bond. They trust you and your judgement," he said.

In 1999, Galluzzo said he helped lead the movement that changed state policy, which now requires counseling on prescriptions being offered to customers.

"I felt counseling was the best thing to do to help people comply with the medications," he said, adding that the more he talks with a customer the more likely they are to follow the regulations and take the prescription properly.

The pharmacy has seen growth and success during its existence but maintains the personalized service that Galluzzo enjoys being able to maintain.

He has also created various services that he deems important to his customers.

A 24-hour emergency phone is offered to the customers who need a prescription filled during off hours. Galluzzo or Rossi will report to the pharmacy to fill a request. Free delivery is also offered to those in need.

Galluzzo said he also calls insurance companies when changes occur, or the medical office when refills have run out. He said its just two other ways to help his patients, especially when it can become complicated.

Each month a clinic is held with the University at Buffalo School of Pharmacy, where patients are able to bring in all their medications - prescription, over the counter, herbs and vitamins - to be reviewed. Galluzzo said this service has resulted in the pharmacy identifying combinations that should not be taken.

"I wanted to create a warm, comfortable setting, and that is what we have done. We will continue to provide services," he said, adding the pharmacy calls patients to follow up after a surgery or illness.

The pharmacy will be offering flu shots beginning Oct. 4 and on scheduled days through Dec. 8. Independent Nursing Care will be administering the shots.

Medicare Part B, Community Blue, Independent Health, and Univera may be accepted as payment. Insurance cards must be presented.

For information call the "Beat the Bug Hotline" at 805-1020 to make an appointment. Information is also available at www.independentnursingcare. com.

Galluzzo has been a member of several local and state associations, also serving in officer positions.

For information, call 568-0800.