Culver City Observer -

Assemblyman Sebastian Ridley-Thomas visited Brotman Medical Pharmacy, a local independent pharmacy in Culver City, on July 30.

Ridley-Thomas spoke with pharmacist/owner Dr. Sapan Bhakta about laws and regulations that affect independent and retail pharmacies. The two discussed the benefits derived when local businesses keep money in the community to create good-paying jobs. Dr. Bhakta called attention to insurance requirements that mandate prescription drug fulfillment via mail-order pharmacies and the subsequent restriction this places on patient consumer choice. They further discussed low reimbursement rates for medication compared to the sharp price increase for medications.

Brotman Pharmacy has been in Culver City for decades. Bhakta has owned the facility since February of 2001.