4 minute read
YNP DUNBAR PHARMACY
Pourya Eslami is the new owner of YNP Dunbar Pharmacy. In addition to being a skilled pharmacist, Pourya has a natural ability to listen attentively and takes pride in going the extra mile for his customers.
Pourya faced some health challenges growing up. He says, “I got a spark from my healthcare providers when I was younger; it was surprising how a simple smile would change and spark my day when I received my prescription or had my health assessed. I learnt from them, and in turn, I like to give my patients the same spark along with their medications or assessments.”
After working in Victoria as a pharmacy manager for two years, he realized he was ready for a new challenge. He began to explore purchasing a pharmacy to introduce a new element to his career. With a Doctor of Pharmacy degree from UBC and a business and management studies degree, combining his two passions made sense.
“My parents are my inspirations. Both are healthcare professionals,” says Pourya. His father is a retired radiologist, and his mother is a Doctor of Medical Laboratory Science. He mentions having many long conversations with his dad to help make the decision to purchase a business.
He heard YNP Dunbar Pharmacy was for sale and bought the established independent business this past April.
A transfer period took place with former owners Norm Cheng and Mathew Chong. Pourya is highly grateful to them for taking the time to introduce him to clients. He is committed to continuing YNP’s excellent reputation and making sure patients get their medications and get them on time.
The people make this neighbourhood unique. It’s such a special place. Dunbar’s residents are very friendly. Everyone has been so awesome introducing me to the community.
In 2023, pharmacists’ roles changed with an expanded scope of practice. Some of the 21 conditions pharmacists can now prescribe medication for include acne, pink eye, dermatitis, allergies, fungal infections, cold sores, stomach upset (GERD), shingles, smoking cessation, and urinary tract infections. In addition, pharmacists can manage and refill certain prescriptions until a patient can see their doctor.
The pharmacy is also home to Dr. Scudamore's rejuvenation clinic, which provides a variety of personalized aesthetic medical care.
I like to take the time to talk to people, which is why I went into healthcare.
In the short time Pourya has owned YNP Dunbar Pharmacy, he has built client relationships. He points out this makes small businesses unique, and he enjoys it very much.
The Government of B.C. sent out invitations in April for spring COVID-19 vaccinations. He recommends getting the COVID-19 vaccination every six months and advises his patients about the merits of continuing to get vaccinated.
“The virus is still around, and it can mutate. After six to 12 months, bodies can become less resilient to the virus. As we have learnt, the COVID-19 vaccination doesn’t prevent people from getting COVID, but the effects will be less serious, and it helps you fight it.”
This same logic applies to the annual fall flu vaccination, as there are always new strains of the flu virus.
The shingles vaccine is another essential vaccination for those 50 and older. One intramuscular injection of the shingles vaccine may help protect you from this potentially painful skin rash.
In collaboration with Avee Telemedicine, YNP Dunbar Pharmacy provides same-day, virtual doctor appointments for urgent medical needs.
In-store compounding and blister packing are offered at no extra charge to help simplify things for clients taking multiple medications. The pharmacy sells vitamins and other health products, flight and medical compression stockings, supports, and orthoses; they are authorized and trained to provide custom-fit service and sales of the Bauerfeind line.
YNP Dunbar Pharmacy is a health hub for the community. I take time to explain prescriptions thoroughly and to answer any questions my patients have.
“Life has taken me to many unexpected places on this earth to meet people from all walks of life. I’ve learned from their stories and experiences while living mine to become the person I am today. This pharmacy is another milestone in my life where I get to grow further while giving back to the community that contributes to this growth. I am glad it happened to be the Dunbar community that does this."
YNP Dunbar Pharmacy
4198 Dunbar Street Vancouver, BC V6S 2E7
Phone 604-730-1788
Story by Sarah Gordon (May 2024). PALLA MEDIA
