When Sanford Health recently announced the regionally owned pharmacy and retail store chain Lewis Drug is joining the health system, patients and customers had questions.
Both organizations have a long history in the communities we serve. So, it’s natural to wonder what this announcement means for the future.
Rest assured, our missions aren’t changing. Sanford Health and Lewis Drug share a promise to provide patient-centered care and service no matter where patients and customers live. Lewis Drug’s 60 locations in South Dakota, Minnesota and Iowa, along with its team of 188 pharmacists and 1,300 employees, will become part of Sanford Health once the partnership is final this fall.
Why is Lewis Drug joining Sanford Health?
Sanford and Lewis have already successfully partnered for more than 25 years, pairing Sanford Health clinics with Lewis Drug pharmacies to make it easier for patients to access medications. Sanford Health has also co-owned 44 Lewis Family Drug locations in rural communities outside of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, for many years.
The long-term, trusted relationship between our two organizations laid the groundwork for the joint decision to make Lewis Drug part of Sanford Health.
What does this mean for Lewis customers?
Nothing will change for Lewis customers. All current discounts will be honored, and Lewis will continue accepting your insurance. Customers can expect the same world-class, friendly service they are used to when visiting a Lewis location.
How will this partnership benefit communities?
By bringing Lewis Drug into Sanford Health, we are ensuring the stores remain locally owned and serving communities across the region. This means continued access to medications, vaccinations, screenings and expert support from Lewis Drug’s team of skilled pharmacists and pharmacy technicians.
Lewis Drug has served as a trusted neighborhood pharmacy and retail destination for more than 80 years, known for its personalized customer service, hospitality and convenience. Lewis Drug is a cornerstone in the communities it serves, and we look forward to extending that legacy as part of Sanford Health.
Is the Lewis Drug/Lewis Family Drug name changing to Sanford Health?
No. Sanford Health will not be part of the Lewis name or brand. The company will continue to operate as Lewis Drug and Lewis Family Drug.
As a nonprofit health care organization, will Sanford Health have to pay taxes for Lewis Drug?
Yes. Despite our nonprofit nature, Sanford Health is one of the largest property taxpayers in the communities it serves. In 2024, Sanford Health paid $7.1 million in South Dakota property taxes and approximately $25 million in property taxes across our entire footprint. Sanford will also continue to pay property taxes for Lewis Drug once the transaction closes this fall. Additionally, Sanford Health will pay all other applicable state and federal taxes associated with Lewis.
What experience does Sanford Health have running a retail business?
Sanford Health operates a variety of retail businesses, including 30 retail pharmacies and Sanford Health Equip. In addition, the longstanding Lewis leadership team will stay on board with Sanford Health to ensure we continue the same great service, convenience and product selection Lewis customers have come to expect.
Are any of the existing customer discounts going away?
All current discounts will be honored.
Will the types of retail items at Lewis Drug change under Sanford Health’s ownership?
We will consider opportunities to expand health care offerings in Lewis stores over time.
Will Lewis Drug continue to accept my insurance?
Yes.
Will I still be able to fill my prescription at Lewis, even if I’m not a Sanford Health patient?
Yes.
What will happen to Lewis Drug’s current owner and top management?
There will be no changes to the management team at Lewis Drug. Lewis Drug’s CEO and current owner, Mark Griffin, will continue in an advisory role.
Will any employees lose their jobs because of the partnership?
No. We are excited to welcome all current Lewis Drug employees to the Sanford family.
Will the company stay actively involved in the communities where we live and work (such as sponsorships and more)?
Sanford Health and Lewis Drug share a deep commitment to giving back to our communities and we plan to continue that as a combined organization.
Learn more
- Lewis Drug is joining Sanford Health
- Harrisburg clinic offers local care, pharmacy partnership
- Sanford Health contributes $11.9 billion to regional economy
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Posted In Community, Company News, Here for all. Here for good., News, Rural Health
