Your Trusted Destination for Medical Needs in Trashigang

In 2014, Trashigang faced a common problem: during government holidays, the hospital’s pharmacy counter shut down, leaving residents without access to essential medications. This gap in healthcare services deeply concerned Rinchen Chogyal, a compassionate individual determined to make a positive impact on his community. Recognizing the urgent need for a reliable pharmacy that operated year-round, Rinchen embarked on a mission to establish one that not only dispensed medications but also offered education and support to the people of Trashigang.

Rinchen’s journey to becoming a catalyst for change began with his education at the Royal Institute of
Health Sciences in Thimphu, where he honed his skills and knowledge in healthcare. Armed with a strong
foundation in pharmacy and a heartfelt desire to serve his community, Rinchen returned to Trashigang with a clear vision of what needed to be done.

With unwavering determination and a deep sense of purpose, Rinchen set out to turn his vision into reality. He navigated through bureaucratic hurdles, secured funding, and rallied support from local residents who shared his commitment to improving healthcare accessibility in Trashigang. Despite facing numerous challenges along the way, Rinchen remained undeterred, driven by his passion for making a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

Finally, after months of hard work and dedication, Rinchen’s dream became a reality with the establishment of the community pharmacy in Trashigang. The pharmacy not only provided a wide range of essential medications but also offered valuable resources such as health education programs, preventive care services, and counseling support. By addressing the holistic needs of the community, Rinchen ensured that the pharmacy served as more than just a place to fill prescriptions—it became a beacon of hope and healing for all who walked through its doors.

Over the years, Rinchen’s pharmacy has become an indispensable asset to the people of Trashigang, especially during holidays when access to healthcare services is limited. His unwavering commitment to serving others, coupled with his dedication to excellence, has earned him the respect and admiration of his community. Rinchen’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the impact that one individual can have when driven by compassion, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of creating positive change.

It was something he was excited about, and he was optimistic about the opportunity to help people each day in his role. Today he is a proud owner of Pema Olo Pharmacy in the heart of Trashigang. Now one can get sick in Trashigang even during the government holidays, and there’s no need to travel far to find the medicine one requires. Pema Olo Pharmacy is your trusted destination for all your healthcare needs! With a wide range of pharmaceutical products.

“Setting up a Pharmacy in such a remote location was not without its challenges. Limited infrastructure, scarce medical supplies, and finances were the biggest challenges at the beginning, these tested my passion and perseverance,” he continued. However, with financial support from the Loden Foundation, he could turn his idea into a fully operational pharmacy.

As word spread about the pharmacy’s presence, the community began to trickle in, seeking relief from their ailments, taking the time to listen to their concerns, offering personalized care, and providing affordable pharmaceutical products. As the pharmacy gained traction, Rinchen recognized the need
to expand its services but due to lack of finances he could not do it, he is looking forward to expanding.

Despite being a small pharmacy, Pema Olo Pharmacy offers a wide range of essential medicines and medical supplies that cater to the specific needs of the local community. So, until now he had received positive feedback from customers. Additionally, his willingness to address any recommendations or issues raised by customers shows that he is dedicated to their satisfaction and improvement.

“To me, an entrepreneur is someone who embodies creativity, innovation, resilience, and a strong sense of initiative. In other words, individuals who have the vision and drive to identify opportunities, take risks, and create value through their business. They are often problem-solvers, leaders, and changemakers,” he said. Rinchen is hopeful about his business in next few years, as he wanted to become medical suppliers
in Bhutan and as we have wide range of medicinal plants available in our country. So, he is hoping to set up manufacturing units in future.

“For aspiring entrepreneurs I would like to advise them to remember that entrepreneurship is a journey filled with opportunities for growth, creativity, and impact. Stay committed to your vision, be persistent
in overcoming challenges and believe in your ability to create something meaningful and impactful
through your ventures.”

The tale of Pema Olo Pharmacy serves as an example of how the pharmacy industry can have a profound impact even in the most isolated locations. By turning challenges into opportunity, building trust and providing crucial services to the community by offering access to essential medical products. Today,
Pema Olo Pharmacy play a vital role in improving healthcare access and outcomes for community in Trashigang.

By Rinzin Dema