Sanford Health has announced that Lewis Drug, the family-owned pharmacy and retail chain with 60 locations across South Dakota, Iowa, and Minnesota, is officially joining Sanford Health. The move, expected to be finalized in the fall, will enhance the availability of pharmacy services and retail products to communities across the region.
The two organizations have worked together for more than 25 years, collaborating to meet local health needs and provide convenient access to healthcare services. Sanford Health and Lewis Drug have a long history of co-locating pharmacies with Sanford clinics—currently, 11 Sanford Health clinics are housed alongside Lewis Drug pharmacies. This partnership has made it easier for patients to access both prescription and over-the-counter medications in one location.
In addition, Sanford Health has partnered with Lewis Drug to integrate ambulatory pharmacists within Sanford clinics, particularly in Sioux Falls. Lewis Drug has also been the pharmacy provider for several Good Samaritan Society locations. In rural areas, the collaboration is even more apparent, with Sanford co-owning 44 Lewis Family Drug locations, expanding healthcare access in smaller communities outside of Sioux Falls.
As part of the agreement, Lewis Drug will retain its brand identity, and its leadership team, including CEO Mark Griffin, will remain intact. Griffin will continue in an advisory role to ensure a smooth transition, providing guidance during the integration process. The move will also result in Lewis Drug’s 1,300 employees, including 188 pharmacists, becoming part of the Sanford Health workforce.
Sanford Health officials are optimistic that the partnership will strengthen their commitment to providing comprehensive care to communities, particularly by expanding access to pharmacy services. With the continued growth of Sanford Health’s regional footprint, integrating Lewis Drug’s established retail and pharmacy services will further bolster their community health initiatives.
Sanford Health has stressed that the transition will be seamless for customers and patients, who can expect continued access to the high-quality pharmacy services that Lewis Drug is known for. This move is part of Sanford Health’s long-term strategy to enhance healthcare delivery in the region and further integrate services to meet growing demand for both healthcare and retail options in local communities.
