TakeAway Environmental Return System is Safe and Environmentally Friendly

Raleigh, NC -- (SBWIRE) -05/23/2011 -- Cleaning out the medicine cabinet? Not sure what to do about the unused, outdated, or unwanted medications you find? Kerr Drug, a leading provider of pharmacy and other healthcare related services, is offering a new solution. The specially designed TakeAway Environmental Return System Envelopes, made by Sharps Compliance Corporation, will be available at all Kerr Drug stores throughout North Carolina starting May 23rd. The envelopes sell for $3.99. The system offers Kerr Drug customers a safe and convenient way to dispose of non-controlled prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medications.

"Kerr Drug is making it easy for our customers to dispose of unwanted medicines, which prevents the possible misuse of these medications as well as the contamination of North Carolina's lakes and rivers, many of which are community water supplies," says Anthony "Tony" Civello, president and CEO of Kerr Drug. "Kerr Drug is a community pharmacy, and that means finding the best way to serve the people in your community. We believe the TakeAway Environmental Return System provides a great service."

It's estimated more than 200 million pounds of unused dispensed medications are disposed of improperly across the country every year.

To use the system, customers can place unwanted prescriptions and over-the-counter medications, excluding controlled drugs, in the envelope, seal it and then drop it in the mail. The postage-paid envelope is sent to an approved treatment facility, where licensed law enforcement oversees the safe and environmentally-responsible disposal process.

"We're pleased to be working with forward thinking retailers like Kerr Drug who are helping to resolve the problem of unused medications adversely affecting our water systems and placing people at risk for accidental and improper dosing," says David P.Tusa, President and CEO of Sharps Compliance. "We are happy to join the list of services Kerr Drug offers in its neighborhood pharmacies and we look forward to the success of the program."

Controlled medications are excluded from this program because of current federal regulations.

About Kerr Drug
Kerr Drug is one of the most recognized and respected names in the chain drug industry. With its roots in the Carolinas and headquarters in Raleigh, N.C., Kerr Drug's strategic direction is founded in its unique ability to provide patients, the medical community, and health plans access to the most comprehensive and convenient health and wellness offering in the industry. With a mission to be the most comprehensive provider of pharmacy and related healthcare services, while continuing to be the most reliable provider of health-related and convenience items, Kerr is currently providing services that far exceed the traditional drug store mix. For more information, please visit http://www.kerrdrug.com.

About Sharps Compliance Corp
Headquartered in Houston, Texas, Sharps is a leading full-service provider of cost-effective management solutions for medical waste and unused dispensed medications generated outside the hospital and large healthcare facility setting. Its strategy is to capture a large part of the estimated $2.8 billion untapped market for unused medications, used syringes and medical waste generated outside of hospital and large healthcare settings by targeting the major agencies that are interrelated with this medical waste stream; that is the U.S. government, pharmaceutical manufacturers, home healthcare providers, retail pharmacies and clinics, and the professional market comprised of physicians, dentists and veterinary practices. More information on the Company and its products can be found on its website at: http://www.sharpsinc.com

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Tony Civello cited for career filled with contributions to health care in community

Raleigh, NC -- (SBWIRE) -- 04/05/2011 -- Tony Civello, President and CEO of Kerr Drug can now add a new title: Health Care Hero Lifetime Achievement Winner. Civello received the recognition from the Triangle Business Journal for his lifetime of work aimed at improving the quality of health care in the community. The Journal's editors cited Civello's leadership in the drug store industry and his proactive work to refocus chain drug retailing in the health care field.

"Pharmacists are totally underutilized in health care," says Civello. "Now more than ever, just handing a bag of medicine to somebody and ringing them up isn't a good use of their education. The best and most cost effective way to improve the health care system is to have pharmacists and physicians working together for the overall benefit of patients."

Civello graduated from the University of Pittsburgh pharmacy school and started in chain drug retailing with Thrift Drug in 1965.

In 1997, Civello led a group that purchased Kerr Drug, and he has steered the North Carolina institution into a model for what community pharmacies will look like in the future. Civello's driving goal has been transitioning his stores from a business centered on delivering prescriptions to one including clinical services such as immunizations, compliance/adherence, and medication therapy management. Civello believes Kerr Drug pharmacists should be active in patient counseling, chronic disease management and interacting with physicians.

In addition to its retail stores across the state, Kerr Drug has expanded its reach and developed other health related operations, including Kerr Health, providing Specialty Pharmacy, Long Term Care Pharmacy, and Care Management.

The awards have followed: Kerr Drug was named the top chain pharmacy three years in a row by Outcomes Pharmaceutical Health Care and the 2010 Chain of the Year by Drug Topics. Both awards cited Kerr Drug's emphasis on health and professional services and its patient focused approach to pharmacy. In 2008, Kerr Drug's innovative Community Health Care Center was named Retail Concept of the Year. In addition, Civello and other members of Kerr Drug's management team were named 2010 Pharmacy Executives of the Year by Chain Drug Review.

Civello admits what he calls his "paradigm shift" will take place slowly but he wants his stores to be ahead of the curve when it arrives. "Pharmacists are extremely well prepared to be a part of health care, especially with the increasing needs for health care professionals and treating an aging population," adds Civello.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Bill would expand Medicare Part D coverage of Medication Therapy Management

Raleigh, NC -- (SBWIRE) -- 02/11/2011 -- Kerr Drug is voicing support for the introduction by U.S. Senator Kay Hagan (D) N.C. of the MTM Empowerment Act, calling the legislation a way to improve patient care and control health care costs. The bill would expand medication therapy management (MTM) coverage to any senior suffering from any chronic condition that accounts for high spending in the health care system. Hagan is one of three co-sponsors of the legislation in the Senate. Similar legislation is expected to be introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives.

"We have proven MTM programs in North Carolina with Medicare seniors and employers that save upwards of eight dollars for every dollar invested in the program," says Mark Gregory, Vice President of Pharmacy and Government Relations for Kerr Drug. "Medication therapy management programs have strengthened the patient and pharmacist relationship and in many cases have afforded patient's a better quality of life."

Medication therapy management involves pharmacists helping patients manage their health care, reviewing medications for drug interactions and the availability of less expensive generics and advising patients on how to take their medications.

While Medication Therapy Management was officially recognized in the Medicare Prescription Drug Improvement and Modernization Act of 2003, the MTM Empowerment Act is modeled after the ChecKmeds NC program for seniors, which was created by the North Carolina Health and Wellness Trust Fund. ChecKmeds NC utilizes a network of 500 community and retail pharmacists who, through the end of June 2010, served 31,191 patients. The estimated cost savings for services to all seniors from the start of the program is $34 million, a return ratio of 13.78:1. Kerr Drug alone just exceeded the $10 million dollars estimated cost avoidance for 2010.

"The most effective and cost efficient way to ensure seniors take their medication properly is through the counseling of a pharmacist," adds Anthony "Tony" Civello, CEO of Kerr Drug. "The evidence shows pharmacists can improve patient health and save health care dollars because pharmacists are often the most accessible health care provider for patients."

Gregory adds with an aging population comes the need to better manage chronic health conditions and the cost associated with those treatments. A recent analysis by the New England Healthcare Institute estimates 13% of total healthcare expenditures may be due to patients not taking their medication properly.

About Kerr Drug
Kerr Drug is one of the most recognized and respected names in the chain drug industry. With its roots in the Carolinas and headquarters in Raleigh, N.C., Kerr Drug's strategic direction is founded in its unique ability to provide patients, the medical community, and health plans access to the most comprehensive and convenient health and wellness offering in the industry. With a mission to be the most comprehensive provider of pharmacy and related healthcare services, while continuing to be the most reliable provider of health-related and convenience items, Kerr is currently providing services that far exceed the traditional drug store mix. For more information, please visit http://www.kerrdrug.com.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Preparation keeps summer adventure from becoming misadventure

Raleigh, NC -- (SBWIRE) -- 06/15/2010 -- It's time to look over that checklist for fun in the summer sun: swimsuit, beach towels and beach chair. But there's one item you might be forgetting; medicine. That's right, medicine.

Kerr Drug, a nationally recognized provider of pharmacy and other healthcare related services, reminds everyone their health needs don't go away just because they're getting away on vacation. What's more, summer vacation isn't the time to realize you forgot to fill a prescription or didn't bring medications for upset stomachs or basic first aid. That's why it's a good idea to ask your neighborhood pharmacist for help with prescription and over-the-counter medications before your summer vacation adventure becomes a venture you'd rather forget.

"I suggest creating a healthy travel kit that will help you take care of everything from chronic illnesses to unexpected health issues," says Anthony "Tony" Civello, president and CEO of Kerr Drug and himself a pharmacist. "It's much easier to have fun on vacation by planning ahead and not having your vacation spoiled by a health problem you could have prevented." Civello recommends a healthy travel kit include:

1. Prescription medicines
2. Over-the-counter medicines such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen for pain relief.
3. Children's medicines.
4. Antacid for heartburn, Imodium for diarrhea.
5. Antihistamine and a cough/cold remedy
6. Allergy medications
7. Motion sickness medication if someone in your family is prone to it
8. Bandages and antibiotic cream
9. Sunscreen and aloe cream to treat sunburns
10. Insect repellant
11. Copy of health insurance card, phone numbers of health care providers, health information concerning chronic health problems.

"While you can't prevent every health problem a little planning can go a long way towards making your vacation memorable for all the right reasons," adds Civello.

About Kerr Drug
Kerr Drug is one of the most recognized and respected names in the chain drug industry. With its roots in the Carolinas and headquarters in Raleigh, N.C., Kerr Drug's strategic direction is founded in its unique ability to provide patients, the medical community, and health plans access to the most comprehensive and convenient health and wellness offering in the industry. With a mission to be the most comprehensive provider of pharmacy and related healthcare services, while continuing to be the most reliable provider of health-related and convenience items, Kerr is currently providing services that far exceed the traditional drug store mix. For more information, please visit http://www.kerrdrug.com.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Better than a tie or golf club, Kerr Drug’s high-tech health assessment gives that special man in your life a peek into their inner health and motivates healthy change

Raleigh, NC -- (SBWIRE) -- 06/09/2010 -- Men are notorious for putting off doctors' appointments. In fact, studies show only 60% of adult men have had a basic physical in the past year. What's worse, 10% of the nation's tough guys haven't had a physical in ten years. But the pharmacists at Kerr Drug are seeing an interesting trend in who is purchasing their in-store health assessment and why….

"We are seeing a lot of women coming in, asking about giving the Know Your Number test as a gift," says Lisa Padgett, clinical pharmacist at Kerr Drug's Chapel Hill store. "They are hoping the results of the test will provide their loved ones with a wake-up call on the realities of their true health, and motivate them to visit their doctor."

The Know Your Number test is not your average health assessment. It takes a person's unique health information, including weight, blood pressure, family history, lifestyle habits and key blood values. It then uses a proprietary technology called Synthesis Analysis to produce a detailed report on that person's risk of developing specific diseases including stroke, diabetes and heart disease. Obesity, lack of exercise and an unhealthy lifestyle are the top contributing factors to the nation's top three disease killers.

The report then maps out exactly how to reduce those risk factors. Kerr Drug partnered with Durham, NC based BioSignia to offer the test and it is only available at Kerr Drug stores in the Triangle. It is not available at any other pharmacy chain nationwide. The Know Your Number test was based on the results of more than 100 clinical studies and was validated in conjunction with the highly regarded Duke University Medical Center, a pioneer in preventive health and wellness.

"The Know Your Number test is a powerful tool to improve the health of our customers," says Anthony "Tony" Civello, president and CEO of Kerr Drug. ""Kerr Drug's health centers are designed to guide and empower people to take charge of their health and the Know Your Number test provides a snapshot of where you are in your journey to better health, plus a guide to get where you need to be."
The Know Your Number test costs $50.00 and can be performed with an appointment in about 30 minutes. Results are strictly confidential

About Kerr Drug
Kerr Drug is one of the most recognized and respected names in the chain drug industry. With its roots in the Carolinas and headquarters in Raleigh, N.C., Kerr Drug's strategic direction is founded in its unique ability to provide patients, the medical community, and health plans access to the most comprehensive and convenient health and wellness offering in the industry. With a mission to be the most comprehensive provider of pharmacy and related healthcare services, while continuing to be the most reliable provider of health-related and convenience items, Kerr is currently providing services that far exceed the traditional drug store mix. For more information, please visit www.kerrdrug.com

About BioSignia
Headquartered in Research Triangle Park, NC, BioSignia is a leading technology company focused on bringing innovative predictive modeling solutions to the preventive health and life insurance markets. At the core of BioSignia's flagship solution, Know Your Number, is the company's proprietary synthesis modeling approach to chronic disease risk prediction. In 2004, Biosignia received the Disease Management Association of America's prestigious award for Best Enabling Tool for Disease Management. Since then, the company's talented R&D team has continued to advance synthesis modeling, continuously updating it to reflect the ever expanding need for effective chronic disease prevention, management and treatment. For more information, visit, www.knowyournumber.com

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Kerr Rewards is a multi-platform program for communicating with and rewarding customers

Raleigh, NC -- (SBWIRE) -- 06/01/2010 -- Kerr Drug, a nationally recognized provider of pharmacy and other healthcare related services, is taking the traditional customer loyalty program into the digital age. That's right, think store coupon, at internet speed. The new Kerr Rewards program offers multiple ways customers can be given advice on health care, alerted to breaking medical news, as well as rewarded for shopping at Kerr Drug.

"Kerr Drug has a history of innovative healthcare and we believe speaking directly to our customers through multiple platforms is critical to fostering a strong relationship with them," says Anthony "Tony" Civello, president and CEO of Kerr Drug. "Customer use of technology is evolving and we must adapt our outreach to offer our healthcare services."

The launch makes Kerr Drug one of the nation's first chain pharmacies to incorporate all six platforms into a rewards program. Availability of all six rewards programs platforms varies from store to store. Please check www.kerrdrug.com for locations.

- Kerr Rewards Mobile-Customers can opt-in to receive weekly offers on their mobile device. The technology allows the customer to display the offer barcode at the register and receive the discount. Coupons can be redeemed multiple times during the coupon life.

- Kerr Rewards Video-Customers earn coupons and rewards by watching videos on http://www.kerrdrug.com. Customers log in, click to watch the video, and then print off coupons associated with the product. Customers earn additional coupons the more videos watched.

- Kerr Rewards Email-Customers can opt-in to receive email newsletters about specific topics as well as related coupons.

- Kerr Rewards Web-Customers can find additional coupons and advice through Kerr Drug's social media platforms.

- Kerr Rewards Register-Customers receive instant coupons printed on register receipt redeemable during their next visit.

- Kerr Rx Rewards-Customers get a $10 gift card for every ten prescriptions filled when they sign up for the Kerr Rx Rewards program.

"Kerr Rewards is designed to reach all of our customers, from the internet savvy to the traditional store coupon shopper," adds Civello. "Our move into digital media helps us to grow our relationships with customers and respond more quickly to customer feedback."

About Kerr Drug
Kerr Drug is one of the most recognized and respected names in the chain drug industry. With its roots in the Carolinas and headquarters in Raleigh, N.C., Kerr Drug's strategic direction is founded in its unique ability to provide patients, the medical community, and health plans access to the most comprehensive and convenient health and wellness offering in the industry. With a mission to be the most comprehensive provider of pharmacy and related healthcare services, while continuing to be the most reliable provider of health-related and convenience items, Kerr is currently providing services that far exceed the traditional drug store mix. For more information, please visit http://www.kerrdrug.com.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Kerr Drug pharmacists credited with saving patients millions of dollars in drug costs and creating health care model for industry

Raleigh, NC -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/14/2010 -- Kerr Drug is the top chain pharmacy in helping patients with Medication Therapy Management, according to Outcomes Pharmaceutical Health Care, a national MTM provider network. Kerr Drug was also named the 2010 Chain of the Year by Drug Topics, a prestigious journal covering the pharmacy industry. Both awards cited Kerr Drug's emphasis on health and professional services and its patient-focused approach to pharmacy as a key to winning the honors.

"Our stores are becoming health destinations where people not only get their prescriptions filled but also learn about health and wellness," says Anthony "Tony" Civello, President and CEO of Kerr Drug. "Medication therapy is more than just filling a prescription. Our pharmacists provide personal health services and make sure patients know everything they need to know about their medicines and therapies before they leave the store."

This is the third consecutive year Kerr Drug earned the top honor from Outcomes. Last year Kerr pharmacists provided thousands of MTM services to Outcomes-covered patients, documenting over $5 million in savings. That's $2 million more than were in documented in 2008.

"Not only has Kerr Drug continued to lead the way in pharmacist delivered MTM services, they've improved their performance," says Brand Newland, vice president of Outcomes. "The company continues to demonstrate the value pharmacists deliver to the health care system."

Kerr Drug's basic premise, that pharmacist intervention is a valuable service, helped earn the Drug Topics 2010 Chain of the year award.

"Kerr Drug's innovations in maximizing the use of pharmacists in medication management have really distinguished them from any other chain pharmacy," says Fred Gebhart, Drug Topics contributing editor. "The combination of flexibility and pharmacy experience helps Kerr focus on professional services and healthcare for patients and not just on prescription volume and front end sales to maximize profits. That's what caught our attention."

About Kerr Drug
Kerr Drug is one of the most recognized and respected names in the chain drug industry. With its roots in the Carolinas and headquarters in Raleigh, N.C., Kerr Drug's strategic direction is founded in its unique ability to provide patients, the medical community, and health plans access to the most comprehensive and convenient health and wellness offering in the industry. With a mission to be the most comprehensive provider of pharmacy and related healthcare services, while continuing to be the most reliable provider of health-related and convenience items, Kerr is currently providing services that far exceed the traditional drug store mix. For more information, please visit http://www.kerrdrug.com.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Pharmacy chain known for innovation says getting healthy starts by Knowing Your Number - Kerr Drug is the only pharmacy to offer Know Your Number test

Raleigh, NC -- (SBWIRE) -- 02/26/2010 -- Kerr Drug, a nationally recognized provider of pharmacy and other healthcare related services, is enhancing its health and wellness program with the addition of a revolutionary assessment tool called Know Your Number. The test predicts an individual's risk of developing chronic, preventable obesity related diseases such as diabetes, stroke and heart disease. Kerr Drug is partnering with Durham, NC based BioSignia to offer the test, and it is only available to customers at Kerr Drug stores in the Triangle. It is not available at any other pharmacy chain nationwide.

"Kerr Drug has a history of innovative healthcare and we believe offering the Know Your Number test continues that tradition," says Anthony "Tony" Civello, president and CEO of Kerr Drug. "Know Your Number not only provides a reality check of your current health status and disease risk, it also provides a roadmap of how to reduce that risk. It's a powerful tool to improve the health of our customers.

The Know Your Number test takes a person's unique health information, including weight, blood pressure, family history, lifestyle habits and key blood values. It then uses BioSignia's proprietary technology to produce a detailed report on that person's risk of developing specific diseases. The report also shows a person's "inner age", a measure of how fast the internal parts of the body are aging. Obesity, lack of exercise and an unhealthy lifestyle often means a person's "inner age" is older than their chronological age.

Most importantly, the Know Your Number report provides a personalized roadmap showing what disease risks can be reduced, how to lower your "inner age" and regain lost years of life, and what steps to take to help live a longer, healthier life.

"We are extremely excited at the opportunity to work with one of the most recognized and respected drug chains in the country," adds John Williams, CEO of BioSignia. "We firmly believe in the power of Know Your Number and the health benefits it will deliver to Kerr Drugs' customers."

Kerr Drug has offered the Know Your Number test as part of its corporate wellness programs and in its work with North Carolina state agencies, but it's now available to in-store customers. The Know Your Number test can be performed with an appointment in about 30 minutes and costs $50. Test results are strictly confidential.

"Kerr Drug's health centers are designed to guide and empower people to take charge of their health and the Know Your Number test provides a snapshot of where you are in your journey to better health, plus a guide to get where you need to be," says Civello.

About Kerr Drug
Kerr Drug is one of the most recognized and respected names in the chain drug industry. With its roots in the Carolinas and headquarters in Raleigh, N.C., Kerr Drug's strategic direction is founded in its unique ability to provide patients, the medical community, and health plans access to the most comprehensive and convenient health and wellness offering in the industry. With a mission to be the most comprehensive provider of pharmacy and related healthcare services, while continuing to be the most reliable provider of health-related and convenience items, Kerr is currently providing services that far exceed the traditional drug store mix. For more information, please visit http://www.kerrdrug.com.

About BioSignia
Headquartered in Research Triangle Park, NC, BioSignia is a leading technology company focused on bringing innovative predictive modeling solutions to the preventive health and life insurance markets. At the core of BioSignia's flagship solution, Know Your Number, is the company's proprietary synthesis modeling approach to chronic disease risk prediction. In 2004, Biosignia received the Disease Management Association's of America's prestigious award for Best Enabling Tool for Disease Management. Since then, the company's talented R&D team has continued to advance synthesis modeling, continuously updating it to reflect the ever expanding need for effective chronic disease prevention, management and treatment. For more information, visit, http://www.knowyournumber.com

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Neighborhood pharmacy inks underwriting deal with The People’s Pharmacy

Raleigh, NC -- (SBWIRE) -- 02/08/2010 -- Kerr Drug, a nationally recognized innovator and provider of pharmacy and other healthcare related services, has signed to underwrite the popular public radio program The People's Pharmacy. The agreement calls for cross-promotional opportunities between Kerr Drug and The People's Pharmacy as well as its creators and hosts, Joe and Terry Graedon. Content from the health library of The People's Pharmacy website as well as podcasts of the radio program will be available on Kerr Drug's website.

"Through their nationally syndicated radio program, newspaper column and best selling books, Joe and Terry Graedon are recognized as experts in prescription drugs, herbals and supplements, vitamins and home remedies," says Anthony N. (Tony) Civello, president and CEO of Kerr Drug. "Kerr Drug is pleased to partner with Joe and Terry Graedon and The People's Pharmacy because we both respect people's ability to make informed decisions about their health care."

When it was first published in 1976, The People's Pharmacy was one of the first books providing drug and health information to consumers. It went on to become a number one bestseller. Since then, Joe and Terry Graedon have written 14 additional books. The People's Pharmacy is heard each week on 120 public radio stations reaching about 250,000 people each week. In addition to hosting their radio show, the Graedons write The People's Pharmacy syndicated newspaper column for 80 newspapers across the country, write copy for their website which averages 15,000 visits daily, and speak frequently on health issues. To find out a station and time, and learn more about The People's Pharmacy, check www.peoplespharmacy.com

"Kerr Drug has a history of innovative healthcare, from its focus on medication therapy management to its pioneering use of pharmacists in immunizing patients and in wellness programs," adds Joe Graedon, co-host of The People's Pharmacy. "Terry and I are excited to team up with Kerr Drug because they share our values of guiding and empowering people to take charge of their health."

"The goal of Kerr Drug's pharmacists, and The People's Pharmacy, is to help people understand how their medications work and what to expect," adds Terry Graedon, co-host of The People's Pharmacy. "We hope to reach even more people and help them stay healthy by working with Kerr Drug."

About Kerr Drug
Kerr Drug is one of the most recognized and respected names in the chain drug industry. With its roots in the Carolinas and headquarters in Raleigh, N.C., Kerr Drug's strategic direction is founded in its unique ability to provide patients, the medical community, and health plans access to the most comprehensive and convenient health and wellness offering in the industry. With a mission to be the most comprehensive provider of pharmacy and related healthcare services, while continuing to be the most reliable provider of health-related and convenience items, Kerr is currently providing services that far exceed the traditional drug store mix. For more information, please visit http://www.kerrdrug.com.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Kerr Drug donates thousands of pairs of reading glasses

Raleigh, NC -- (SBWIRE) -- 12/03/2009 -- Thanks to a donation from Kerr Drug, thousands of people in developing countries around the world will have a new pair of glasses to help them read. Rather than discard the outdated inventory, the Raleigh, NC based drug store chain donated thousands of pairs of old reading glasses and accessories from 80 of its stores to New Eyes for the Needy. The Short Hills, New Jersey charity recycles donated glasses for distribution to children and adults in developing countries around the world. New Eyes volunteers will sort the reading glasses by magnification and re-package them for distribution through small medical missions.

"Kerr Drug is a pioneer in the concept of community pharmacy, and we are delighted to be in a position to help bring clear site to people in communities around the world," says Anthony Civello, president and CEO of Kerr Drug. "We chose to work with New Eyes for the Needy because they are an outstanding organization that does important work around the world."

Kerr Drug's donated glasses will help adults and children in Ghana, Honduras, India, South Africa, St. Marten and other countries. Medical missions that partner with New Eyes will deliver the glasses to residents who often have no means of obtaining glasses on their own. New Eyes will also supply Kerr Drug's glasses to large charities such as Feed the Children, Physicians for Peace and the Tree-Land Foundation to provide glasses for distribution through eye clinics in developing countries.

"Kerr Drug's generous donation goes a long way towards helping New Eyes to fill the almost daily requests for reading glasses that we receive from religious groups, humanitarian organizations and optometrists who volunteer their time and services to answer the vision care needs of poor people overseas," explained Susan Dyckman, executive director of New Eyes. For more information about New Eyes, visit www.neweyesfortheneedy.org.

About Kerr Drug
Kerr Drug is one of the most recognized and respected names in the chain drug industry. With its roots in the Carolinas and headquarters in Raleigh, N.C., Kerr Drug's strategic direction is founded in its unique ability to provide patients, the medical community, and health plans access to the most comprehensive and convenient health and wellness offering in the industry. With a mission to be the most comprehensive provider of pharmacy and related healthcare services, while continuing to be the most reliable provider of health-related and convenience items, Kerr is currently providing services that far exceed the traditional drug store mix. For more information, please visit http://www.kerrdrug.com.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Pharmacists administering seasonal flu shots

Raleigh, NC -- (SBWIRE) -- 10/14/2009 -- Kerr Drug, the community pharmacy that's been a leader in pharmacist administration of flu vaccinations, is taking its immunization campaign to the North Carolina State Fair. Kerr Drug is the official pharmacy of the 2009 N.C. State Fair and will provide seasonal flu shots on site at their booth at the fairgrounds. Kerr Drug's specially trained immunizing pharmacists will administer seasonal flu shots to individuals at least 14 years of age and older.

Because of the severity of this year's flu season and the unprecedented demand for flu shots, Kerr Drug launched its immunizing campaign in early September and continues to meet the demand for seasonal flu shots at its stores and special events. The State Fair flu immunization booth follows successful visits to the Dixie Classic Fair in Winston Salem, NC and the Cleveland County Fair near Charlotte in which Kerr Drug's pharmacists immunized thousands of visitors. The company also trained additional pharmacists, allowing Kerr Drug to assign 115 immunizing pharmacists to its stores throughout North Carolina.

"Kerr Drug is proud to be the official pharmacy of the NC State Fair because our roots are in North Carolina," says Joe Heidrick, R.Ph. PharmD and Director of Operations for KDI Health Solutions, the clinical arm of Kerr Drug. "With more than 800,000 people expected to attend this year's state fair, Kerr Drug pharmacists have an excellent opportunity to help fair goers stay healthy this flu season."

Heidrick adds while Kerr Drug's pharmacists must follow federal guidelines that limit administration to specific priority groups with the pandemic or H1N1 vaccine, we advise everyone to get a seasonal flu shot because the flu season is expected to be worse this year.

About Kerr Drug
Kerr Drug is one of the most recognized and respected names in the chain drug industry. With its roots in the Carolinas and headquarters in Raleigh, N.C., Kerr Drug's strategic direction is founded in its unique ability to provide patients, the medical community, and health plans access to the most comprehensive and convenient health and wellness offering in the industry. With a mission to be the most comprehensive provider of pharmacy and related healthcare services, while continuing to be the most reliable provider of health-related and convenience items, Kerr is currently providing services that far exceed the traditional drug store mix. For more information, please visit http://www.kerrdrug.com.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Pharmacists administering seasonal flu shots

Raleigh, NC -- (SBWIRE) -- 09/30/2009 -- Kerr Drug, the community pharmacy that pioneered the training of clinical pharmacists to administer vaccines to patients, is making seasonal flu shots available at two of North Carolina's largest local fairs as well as the NC State Fair, to meet the growing demand for flu shots. Kerr Drug launched its immunizing campaign in early September. The company is also training additional pharmacists, allowing Kerr Drug to assign 115 immunizing pharmacists to its stores throughout North Carolina.

Fair Booth Seasonal Flu Shots
• Kerr Drug booth at the Dixie Classic Fair in Winston Salem, October 2-11.
• Kerr Drug booth at the Cleveland County Fair in Shelby, October 1-10.
• Kerr Drug Booth at the NC State Fair, October 15-25

Flu shots cost $30 each. Credit Cards are accepted. Kerr Drug accepts Medicare Part B, Humana Gold Choice, Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina, Federal Blue Cross and NC State Employees with no copay to patients with these plans. Please bring your primary physician's information.

General Information
Last year, Kerr Drug provided 23,000 flu immunizations. Approximately 6,000 of those were given at fairs such as the NC State Fair, while the rest were given at Kerr Drug stores and at employer worksites. Kerr Drug hopes to double the number of immunizations this year to better protect the public health.

"Kerr Drug is a North Carolina based company, and we are pleased to be part of local fairs that celebrate our communities and our state," says Joe Heidrick, R.Ph, PharmD and Director of Operations for KDI Health Solutions, the clinical subsidiary of Kerr Drug. "Our pharmacists are not just giving seasonal flu shots, they are playing a crucial role in minimizing a pandemic because the flu season is expected to be much worse this year. While anyone can get the flu, it's important to note senior citizens and young children are at greater risk because their immune systems are often weaker."

About Kerr Drug
Kerr Drug is one of the most recognized and respected names in the chain drug industry. With its roots in the Carolinas and headquarters in Raleigh, N.C., Kerr Drug's strategic direction is founded in its unique ability to provide patients, the medical community, and health plans access to the most comprehensive and convenient health and wellness offering in the industry. With a mission to be the most comprehensive provider of pharmacy and related healthcare services, while continuing to be the most reliable provider of health-related and convenience items, Kerr is currently providing services that far exceed the traditional drug store mix. For more information, please visit http://www.kerrdrug.com.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Pharmacists administering seasonal flu shots now, H1N1 pandemic flu shots to be given in October

Raleigh, NC -- (SBWIRE) -- 09/15/2009 -- Kerr Drug, the community pharmacy that pioneered the training of clinical pharmacists to administer vaccines to patients, is making flu shots available immediately to meet what is expected to be an unprecedented demand for flu shots. The company is also training additional pharmacists, allowing Kerr Drug to assign 115 immunizing pharmacists to its stores throughout North Carolina. Because of the additional resources Kerr Drug is deploying this flu season, the Department of Public Health has chosen Kerr Drug to be one of the first pharmacies to administer the H1N1pandemic flu vaccine later this year.

"Our pharmacists are not just giving seasonal flu shots, they are playing a crucial role in minimizing a pandemic," says Joe Heidrick, R.Ph, PharmD and Director of Operations for KDI Health Solutions, the clinical subsidiary of Kerr Drug. "Senior citizens and young children are at greater risk of not only getting the flu but also of potentially fatal complications because their body's immune system is weaker. Those risks are even greater this year because this flu season is expected to be much worse."

H1N1 Flu Vaccine
Beginning in mid to late October, Kerr Drug's certified immunizing pharmacists will administer seasonal flu shots in tandem with the H1N1 pandemic flu vaccine. Kerr Drug will follow the guidelines set forth by the Centers for Disease Control's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices: The priority groups to receive the vaccine are:

• Pregnant women
• Household contacts of infants under six months
• Healthcare and emergency-services workers
• Young people between six months and 24 years of age regardless of health status
• And nonelderly adults with underlying risk condition, such as diabetes and chronic lung disease.

About Kerr Drug
Kerr Drug is one of the most recognized and respected names in the chain drug industry. With its roots in the Carolinas and headquarters in Raleigh, N.C., Kerr Drug's strategic direction is founded in its unique ability to provide patients, the medical community, and health plans access to the most comprehensive and convenient health and wellness offering in the industry. With a mission to be the most comprehensive provider of pharmacy and related healthcare services, while continuing to be the most reliable provider of health-related and convenience items, Kerr is currently providing services that far exceed the traditional drug store mix. For more information, please visit http://www.kerrdrug.com.

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Kerr Drug pharmacists featured on NBC's Today Show

Raleigh, NC -- (SBWIRE) -- 07/22/2009 -- Kerr Drug's efforts to protect patients from dangerous drug interactions as well as maximize medication therapy were featured in a segment on NBC's Today Show. Kerr Drug clinical pharmacist Joe Heidrick explained how pharmacists spot potentially dangerous drug interactions daily and how Kerr Drug uses technology to alert pharmacists to potential problems.

Watch the Today segment:

http://www.hulu.com/watch/83025/nbc-today-show-dangerous-drug-interactions

But the pharmacist's expertise in Medication Therapy Management remains the patient's most important protection. "Before the patient receives the medication, and before the patient takes the medication, we have to know it is safe to take," Heidrick explained. Drug interactions include potential side effects, treatment duplications, drug-drug interactions as well as drug-disease interactions.

NBC News reporter Chris Jansing detailed how one-in-four Americans take more than one prescription drug everyday and the number of deaths from dangerous drug interactions increased 564% between from 1983-2004. Those numbers explain why Medication Therapy Management is at the heart of Kerr Drug's mission and focuses on three key components:

• Enhanced consumer understanding of medications.
• Increasing consumer adherence to medication directions.
• Prevention of drug complications, conflicts and interactions.

"Helping patients on a one to one basis fully understand their range of medications is a critically important service we provide as a community based pharmacy," says Anthony Civello, Chairman and CEO of Raleigh, NC based Kerr Drug. "Medication therapy is more than just filling a prescription. Our pharmacists are available to make sure their patients know everything they need to know about their medicines before they leave the store."

About Kerr Drug
Kerr Drug is one of the most recognized and respected names in the chain drug industry. With its roots in the Carolinas and headquarters in Raleigh, N.C., Kerr Drug's strategic direction is founded in its unique ability to provide patients, the medical community, and health plans access to the most comprehensive and convenient health and wellness offering in the industry. With a mission to be the most comprehensive provider of pharmacy and related healthcare services, while continuing to be the most reliable provider of health-related and convenience items, Kerr is currently providing services that far exceed the traditional drug store mix

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm