OptumRx_Protest 9.13.2024 001 _ photo credit Tim Evans Photography (1).JPG

Who We Are

In 2019, MNIndys (standing for “Minnesota Indys,” in reference to our state’s network of independent pharmacies) started simply as a Google Group for independently owned pharmacies to be able to support each other and share information regarding the ever-changing landscape of pharmacy benefit managers' (PBMs') unethical practices in Minnesota.

Since that time, the group has grown to include more than 100 pharmacies and counting from across the state, including a few locally owned chains/groceries. Our members and their expertise are go-to resources for Minnesota state legislators and other key stakeholders when it comes to understanding and addressing PBM abuse, as well as ensuring a future for local pharmacy care, through legislative reform.

Minnesota state outline with shadow on MNIndys light blue background

MNIndys (pronounced "min-deez") is a dual-arm 501(c)3 and 501(c)6 nonprofit organization begun and run by actual independent pharmacy owners. We support our state’s independent pharmacy providers by bringing awareness to the problems local indy pharmacies and their patients face daily due to pharmacy benefit manager (PBM) abuse and through educating Minnesotan patients, healthcare providers, employers, unions, and legislators on PBM-related issues. In addition to education, MNIndys is dedicated to seeing both meaningful legislative reform and actionable enforcement of PBMs in Minnesota.

AWARDS

Recently, three members of MNIndys' leadership were recognized at the annual

MPhA Awards

Vice President John Hoeschen, RPh, BSPharm was given the Harold R. Popp award in recognition of his outstanding services to the profession of pharmacy. This is the highest honor bestowed by the association and is the third award John has received from MPhA, making him the first individual to ever receive the Popp, Bowl of Hygeia (2011), and Distinguished Young Pharmacist (1996) awards.

Founder and President Deborah Keaveny, RPh, PharmD was awarded the Bowl of Hygeia in honor of her outstanding record of civic leadership in her community as well as her devotion of significant time, talent, and resources to a wide variety of causes and community service. This award is presented annually by participating state pharmacy associations, including those in the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico, and is sponsored by the National Alliance for State Pharmacy Associations (NASPA).

Secretary and Treasurer Andrew Russell, RPh, PharmD was the recipient of the Excellence in Innovation award, which recognizes excellence in innovative pharmacy practice resulting in improved patient care. His work co-owning the Elko New Market area's only indy pharmacy alongside his meaningful contributions to the MNIndys Legislative Working group make him one of Minnesota pharmacy's rising stars.

MNIndys

JOIN MNIndys

[min·deez]

The collective group of the great state of Minnesota's independent pharmacies

Herald Journal Article about the battle to save independent pharmacies featuring MNIndys founder Deb Keaveny

"Let us compete on our merits. Let us compete on our service. We’ll never be able to buy drugs as cheap as the Walmarts, the Walgreens, things like that, and that’s fine. That’s the market. That’s how a free market’s supposed to work. But on a level playing field, if I get to compete with the big boxes on service and taking care of my patients, I will beat them every day.

And that’s all we’re asking for, is the opportunity."

—Deborah Keaveny, RPh

Founder of MNIndys & Owner of Keaveny Drug in Winsted, MN