Outpost to close pharmacy service Oct. 18

The Clarendon Outpost announced this week that its pharmacy will be close after more than 25 years of service.

Owners of the business said in a statement that the pharmacy’s last day will be October 18, 2022. Efforts are being made to transfer customers’ information to Mike’s Pharmacy in Clarendon or to any other pharmacy of a customer’s choice.

The Outpost says closing the pharmacy was due to losses in that department, and owners plan to focus their services on the business’ diner and convenience store departments.

“We tried every way possible to run the pharmacy and looked for every option available just to sustain it,” the owners said.

The pharmacy had operated in its current location under the Outpost name since 1996 but originally operated as Bivens Pharmacy and dated back to 1976 when Paul and Elmonette Bivens bought out Tunnell’s Pharmacy.

Employees at Mike’s Pharmacy were busy this week transferring customers from the Outpost and answering a lot of questions from their new customers.

“We’re trying to make the transition as smooth as possible,” pharmacist Brandon Frausto said.

Frausto is one of four full time employees at Mike’s Pharmacy, which is owned by Clarendon native Mark Land of Panhandle. The business dates back about 40 years to its original owner, Mike Butts.

Frausto said Mike’s is negotiating with the owners of the Outpost to purchase their inventory. He also asks for patience from customers during the transition.

“If possible, if people could call a day or two before they need their medication, it would really help during the transition,” Frausto said.

Mike’s does not offer durable medical equipment services like the Outpost has done, but Frausto said Mike’s is in the process of setting up to carry some of the Part B drugs.

Frausto also said some Navitus insurance customers may have received a letter saying Mike’s does not take that coverage, but that is not the case. Those customers will be able to use Mike’s services.

Mike’s Pharmacy can be contacted at 806-874-3554, and they are open Monday-Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. They offer a drive-up window as well as delivery services within the city limits of Clarendon.

“We will do our best to accommodate everyone,” Frausto said.