Shoppers Drug Mart has opened its first managed medical clinic, with two more expected for the Greater Toronto Area this year.

The retailer will both own and operate Health Clinic by Shoppers, a primary-care and family practice clinic located at Lawrence Avenue and Dufferin Street.

The goal is to make healthcare more accessible for patients with extended operating hours and increased technology, such as online appointment booking and virtual care options through Medeo solutions and electronic health records via the AccuroEMR platform.

Shoppers Drug Mart President Jeff Leger said the clinic “combines convenience and technology in a way that is increasingly relevant to Canadians looking for health and wellness support.”

A physician advisory board of individuals with extensive experience in health clinic operations and management was assembled to support implementation.

“The COVID 19 pandemic has had a substantial impact on both the way Canadians access health care and on how physicians deliver primary care to their patients,” says Dr. Barry McLellan of the Health Clinic by Shoppers physician advisory board. “Through an enhanced experience of consistent quality of care, convenient hours, technology-enabled and virtual care services all delivered in a modern clinic space, the Health Clinic by Shoppers is uniquely positioned to provide high-quality, patient-centered healthcare to Canadians.”