Lewiston/Auburn, Maine (July 13, 2012) — In the spirit of Independence Day in the month of July, Bedard Pharmacy, an independent pharmacy with two locations in Lewiston and Auburn, is encouraging the community to “Celebrate Independents” by visiting its local businesses.

“As an independently-owned business and member of the community, we are committed to ensuring that the Lewiston/Auburn area and beyond is the best it can be,” said Bedard President and CEO Michael Nadeau, PD. “As your local healthcare provider, we invite everyone to come in and see what it means to celebrate independent pharmacies like Bedard.”

In recent years, independent community pharmacies have received the highest scores based on satisfaction and customer service from Consumer Reports and J.D. Power and Associates.

Research has shown that shopping at local businesses often benefits communities. A 2003 study by Civic Economics found that out of every $100 spent at a locally owned and operated business, approximately $45 stayed in the local economy. In addition, local businesses, such as independent pharmacies, often contribute to the economy by hiring local employees, using local suppliers and boosting local tax income via revenue.

Bedard President and CEO Michael R. Nadeau, PD, is a member of the National Community Pharmacists Association (NCPA) which has declared July “Celebrate Independents Month” to highlight the independent pharmacy and encourage patients to experience the benefits of independent community pharmacies.

The NCPA 2011 NCPA Digest, a comprehensive survey of the current state of independent community pharmacies, finds that independent community pharmacies continue evolving to meet patient health needs, reduce costs, and remain a viable small business model amid a tough economic landscape, declining prescription drug reimbursements by public and private health plans, and rising expenses, such as employee salaries.

About Bedard

Bedard is a third generation-owned Pharmacy, Senior Care Pharmacy and Durable Medical Equipment and Supplies company now located at 359 Minot Avenue in Auburn. Bedard Pharmacy at 61 College Street in Lewiston remains open. Bedard is nationally accredited with The Joint Commission and the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP). After more than 110 years of service, Bedard Pharmacy remains an industry leader by combining old-fashioned customer service with leading-edge skills and state-of-the-art technology.

For more information, call (207) 786-0139 or 1-888-BEDARDS (toll-free), or visit www.bedardpharmacy.com.