At Theatre Pharmacy, It’s Personal
THREE GENERATIONS OF DINNOS DEDICATE THEMSELVES TO BRINGING PERSONALIZED HEALTHCARE, AND UNMATCHED SERVICE TO THEIR PHARMACY BUSINESS
Lexington is indeed fortunate to have a good mix of businesses in the Center. Stores offering everything from shoes to specialty food items populate Massachusetts Avenue, Waltham Street, and Meriam Street. Even more, there are still a several family-run local businesses that work hard to offer great service, excellent products, and add to the charm that makes Lexington Center a great shopping and dining experience. Places like Michelson’s Shoes, Crafty Yankee, and now Fiorella’s Trattoria are good examples of local businesses with strong ties to the community. Theatre Pharmacy, in the heart of Lexington Center since 1935, is owned by the Dinno family and features three generations involved with managing day-to-day operations.
We know the customers, they know us, and if they don’t know us or we don’t know them, we try to get to know them…”
-DANNY DINNO
Offering a variety of pharmaceutical services and building a sense of community with its customers, this pharmacy has grown to play a significant role in Lexington, beyond only providing prescription drugs. Theatre Pharmacy has adopted a comprehensive philosophy that combines the expertise of its dedicated staff with a commitment to customized treatment.
Saad and Ray Dinno of Dinno Health, purchased Theatre Pharmacy in June 2020 from the Venier family, who previously owned the pharmacy for 85 years. The Dinno Family also owns three other local pharmacies, including Acton Pharmacy, West Concord Pharmacy, and Keyes Drug in Newton. Ramzi Dinno, the father of Saad and Ray Dinno, acquired Keyes Drug in 1985, and Dinno Health has been providing pharmaceutical products and services ever since.
When it comes to working alongside family, maintaining a harmonious balance between personal and professional relationships can be a challenge. However, Saad’s son Danny, a third-generation pharmacist, and his family have found a way to navigate this dynamic. Danny emphasizes the importance of work-life balance and taking time to enjoy personal interactions while always prioritizing patient care. He explains, “Even though many people can say it’s tough, we try to make the best of it, and it’s not always smooth sailing, but we work together to keep the day going and keep the business rolling.”
Danny’s journey began at a young age, as he grew up helping his grandfather in the pharmacy. Starting as a cashier, he gradually worked his way up to becoming a pharmacist, completing his education in both biology and pharmacy. His passion for pharmacy and the strong family legacy inspired him to follow in the footsteps of his father and grandfather.
Over the years, Theatre Pharmacy has been a trusted resource for residents, catering to their diverse health needs. They provide a wide selection of prescription drugs, over-the-counter products, and specialized services, including medication treatment.
In an era dominated by corporate pharmacies, what sets Theatre Pharmacy apart is its commitment to personalized service and exceptional care. The staff at Theatre Pharmacy strive to build lasting relationships with their customers, going beyond being a mere dispenser of medications. “We know the customers, they know us, and if they don’t know us or we don’t know them, we try to get to know them, because, after all, we’re handling their medication, which is a very serious aspect of their healthcare,” Danny said. The familiarity and trust that develops over time have led to multi-generational support in the community. Generations of families in and around Lexington have come to depend on Theatre Pharmacy for the very best products, and unmatched service.
Another aspect that sets Theatre Pharmacy apart is its unwavering commitment to personalized service and community outreach. Director of Health and Wellness at Theatre Pharmacy, Beth Gardner has transformed the concept of pharmacy services. In her role, she focuses on providing comprehensive care beyond medication dispensing. Collaborating closely with pharmacists, she addresses patients’ medication-related concerns, nutrient deficiencies, and side effects. As a certified stocking fitter and wound specialist, Gardner assists customers with compression socks and wound care. She also oversees the procurement of durable medical equipment, ensuring affordable options. Theatre Pharmacy distinguishes itself by offering high-quality, third-party-tested vitamin supplements. Gardner’s dedication to holistic care has revolutionized the pharmacy experience, promoting well-being, and embodying Theatre Pharmacy’s commitment to community and excellence. Gardner said, “We also try to think outside the box. So, because we’re a wellness center, we try to bring in local vendors and feature their goods alongside the very best brands.”
Saad and Danny believe that being part of the community means actively participating in its well-being. They engage in various community activities, including involvement with the local Chambers of Commerce. Theatre Pharmacy has become an integral part of the community, offering a wide range of specialized items, such as vitamins, supplements, and home healthcare products. The Dinno Family also posted a series of lectures around different health and wellness subjects on YouTube so that all people can access them. Saad explained, “It could be dermatology; it could be what’s new with hip surgeries and such. So, it could be an array of topics that may pertain to people in everyday situations.”
Theatre Pharmacy has also made a conscious effort to make its products affordable for everyone. While maintaining a competitive pricing strategy, they also focus on carrying specialized items that are not readily available at larger chain pharmacies. By offering a wide range of products and ensuring their knowledgeable staff can provide guidance, Theatre Pharmacy aims to be a one-stop shop for the community’s healthcare needs.
Theatre’s pharmacy manager, Tara Mulligan, explains that they are committed to the overall well-being of their customers. She said, “The service here is top-notch. We have a wonderful staff, and we always try to go out and spend some time with customers. We’re not just filling prescriptions here; we’re going above and beyond and giving that extra service. When people walk in here, they’re like, ‘Oh, wow. It’s so nice in here, and it’s got a nice vibe.’”
Looking towards the future, Saad and Danny recognize that the pharmacy landscape is ever-evolving. They understand the need to adapt to changes and remain at the forefront of clinical advancements. They envision expanding clinical services, such as diabetes and asthma education, to meet the growing expectations of their patients. By staying current with the latest developments and integrating them into its four locations, Theatre Pharmacy is committed to serving the evolving healthcare needs of the community.
We, as a community, are fortunate to have family-run businesses throughout Lexington. Theatre Pharmacy’s contributions to the local community and its role in providing essential healthcare services have been stellar throughout generations. Theatre Pharmacy’s personal touch stands out in a world of impersonal chains. It’s a reminder that human connections and genuine care still matter in healthcare. Saad expressed his personal gratitude for the support they receive from Lexington families. He said, “I’m very thankful and grateful for a community that supports small businesses and specifically supporting us when they could just go across the street or go to another chain in town. But, in the meantime, they choose to come to us, and we are truly grateful and appreciative of that. We will always work hard to live up to their expectations.”