Monday, June 1, 2020 khaleej times
THE CHANGING FACE OF PHARMACIES KHALEEJ TIMES | ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT
Connected healthcare for all
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s the world currently battles the pandemic, Covid-19 is serving as a catalyst of change in business and operations. A prime example is the mode of healthcare delivery that has adapted to the needs of today. Among this is tele-health where patients can seek professional advice over audio-visual communication channels, as well as mobile units that discharge certified healthcare staff with state-of-the-art equipment to patients’ homes. Pharmacies too have joined the global race, taking on new features that were once unimagined. Limited interaction has opened up opportunities for pharmacies to explore the digital world, where healthcare products, beauty essentials and even prescription medicine can be acquired through a simple click — be it via social media or dedicated e-commerce websites — and delivered straight to residents’ doorsteps. The changing face of pharmacies, as it keeps up with trends, secures a notable position in these challenging times.
BinSina Pharmacy
‘Success lies in resilience and foresight’ BinSina Pharmacy responds to consumer needs through new channels of healthcare delivery ■ Farhana Chowdhury BinSina Pharmacy continues to stand the test of time despite changing trends in the pharmaceutical sector and has undertaken a number of initiatives to cater to the needs of the Emiratis, residents and expats. The healthcare retailer was notably quick to take operative measures and offer a range of wellness solutions for residents since the recent Covid-19 outbreak in the UAE. “At BinSina Pharmacy, we want residents to know that we are here for them, and our products and advice — by pharmacists, nutritionists and beauty advisors — are easily accessible. What is interesting about the current situation is that it has changed the way consumers interact with pharmacies. People now want to shop more locally, opting for street pharmacies or community locations; there has been an increase in demand for home deliveries through multiple omnichannel online platforms or social media such as WhatsApp, Facebook and Instagram,” said Ian Hunter, Chief Operating Officer, BinSina Pharmacy and Wellness.
Ian Hunter, Chief Operating Officer, BinSina Pharmacy and Wellness
BinSina Pharmacy is one of the oldest and most trusted pharmacies in the UAE, established in 1965 and organically nurtured by family-owned diversified group Al Khayyat investments. Armed with foresight, BinSina Pharmacy introduced a Ministry-approved online pharmacy in February, which has proven to become a primary access point to cater to residents’ needs in the current situation. “We are also working with TruDoc to offer a
teleconsultation service. Patients can access this feature through their phone or PC and receive diagnosis from doctors who would then prescribe medicines,” said Hunter, adding that calls to 800BinSina are answered by qualified pharmacists that can offer both advice and a suitable product, if required. The prescription is then sent to a BinSina Pharmacy outlet nearest to them, allowing residents the option to collect it themselves or have it delivered to their doorstep. “Depending on the nature of your problem, there are different ways we can help you. What we cannot do and will not do is break the rules and laws, especially when it comes to prescribing certain types of medication,” he added. Other initiatives include the set-up of BinSina Pharmacy kiosks, equipped with “Covid-19 essentials” and placed near the entrances of major malls as well as community centres for convenience. The essentials available include face masks, gloves, hand sanitisers as well as vitamin C to help residents keep safe from the current pandemic. According to Hunter, BinSina Pharmacy is on track to opening more branches across the UAE in order to reach out to consumers. With four recent store openings, the chief operating officer said that plans are under way to reveal seven to 10 more stores by the year-end, depending on the speed of developments.
RECENT CSR INITIATIVES
In response to health concerns, BinSina Pharmacy recently prepared 5,000 flu prevention kits that were available in some of its stores. About 1,500 additional kits were utilised by government bodies and the Dubai Police, while a further 500 were donated to families in need. BinSina Pharmacy is also active in other areas to bring relief, such as its recent collaboration with the Emirates Red Crescent. The healthcare retailer has set up donation links online as well as collections in-store. The group further paid homage to the healthcare industry by distributing exclusive health and beauty boxes to the heroes helping in the battle against Covid-19.
Step out in style with REUSABLE eco-friendly MUHH masks The face coverings are custom-printed With face masks now a must for everyone in public places, carelessly discarding used ones may pose safety hazard. Therefore, the use of reusable protective gear is highly effective in reducing trash and protecting the environment. Many disposable masks use non-woven plastics that do not degrade and by the time the pandemic is over, if not trillions, billions of disposable masks are going to end up in landfills. Reusable masks, in this case, are a much more environmentalfriendly option that will help us preserve our planet when Covid-19 is over.
The MUHH reusable face masks are made of breathable knitted 100 per cent cotton fabric for guaranteed comfort and have antimicrobial properties. Its three-ply layer offers high level of filtration and the best part is they are biodegradable. The MUHH face masks come in a range of colours for both adults and children. The fabric is durable and can be laundered at home for up to five washes. Offering customised face masks to corporates for internal use or as giveaways for promotion, the masks come in airtight packaging preventing any contamination.
Anti-Microbial Properties
Brand customization
Elastic ear loops Color options
Biodegradable
100% Washable and reusable 3- Ply layering for high level of filtration
Anti-Microbial Properties 100% Cotton for guaranteed comfort 3-ply layering for high level of filtration Durable fabric - 100% washable and reusable Guaranteed 5 washes - highly durable fabric and can be laundered at home Free size to fit a wide range of body types Air tight packaging provided to prevent contamination
Breathable - Knitted Fabric Moisture wicking properties Elastic ear loops Biodegradable Can be used while driving
From medicine, to skin care and from make-up to vitamins we have all your health, wellness and beauty needs all in one place. At this current time, your safety is our main priority, so to help you stay safe we have partnered with TruDoc so you can consult with a doctor and receive prescription medicines from the comfort of your own home.
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