Pharmacy Offers Game Nights, Art Therapy Classes

“Bingo!” isn’t a common expression at a pharmacy, but the owner of Norwood Pharmacy in Harlem, New York, provides more than just medications and advice to patients; he also offers free game nights and art therapy classes.

Yogi Chavada, who has 2 advanced art degrees, decided to transform a large room in his pharmacy for community events, DNA Info reported. He and other health care professionals donate their time to provide free art and wellness classes to the community.

Chavada’s pharmacy has also hosted events like bingo nights, a Thanksgiving turkey raffle, a Valentine’s Day event, and a summer block party.

One of the reasons why Chavada wanted to promote more patient engagement was that he noticed some customers would grab their medication, leave, and call later with questions about the drug, according to DNA Info. Creating a more close-knit feeling within the pharmacy can make customers feel more comfortable and open to dialogue.

Chavada has been in the pharmacy business for 10 years. Even during his art studies at SUNY Albany, he picked up shifts at a pharmacy, DNA Info reported.

Chavada said his art therapy classes at Norman Pharmacy could help provide therapeutic relief. For patients with high blood pressure, Chavada said art could help them relax.

In addition, community members can also attend free classes on nutrition, anxiety, depression, wellness, substance abuse, and HIV prevention and awareness, Chavada told DNA Info.