m........8

I wrote a review here back in June, but I am writing another as a medical patient (I usually go to a med dispensary in Somerville near where I work.) Service and quality: The staff/POS reps are very nice and informative. Last time I went I was offered a surprise coupon deal (Monday wheel-spin!) and I had a good conversation with the cashiers working that day. Was fast and convenient. Product is fresh and good quality. I also really appreciate the double-sealed bags included with edibles––I don't have any children or dogs, but these safety precautions are imperative for patients who do have little ones and furry friends at home. The Somerville dispensary that I usually hit up has never included double-sealed bags with purchases. Sustainability: I love that Patriot Care offers discounts as an incentive to recycle containers and double-sealed bags in-store. Again, the Somerville dispensary I typically go to doesn't offer any in-store recycling. Whether customers receive a discount or not, I think all dispensaries should provide recycling disposal for used containers. Medical and rec user friends of mine have expressed feeling embarrassed or unsure of how to dispose containers used for cannabis products. I just toss mine in my recycling bin for weekly waste pickup, but not everyone will necessarily feel comfortable with disposing their containers at home. I highly recommend (and hope) that all dispensaries will provide more sustainable options for patients in the future. Accessibility: Delivery options should be made more explicit to create a more equitable and accessible treatment experience for all. Med patient access is relatively accessible, but I think Patriot Care would benefit from advertising medical delivery more explicitly. I am able-bodied and can access transportation to leave my house, so this has not been an inconvenience for me. However, this is a serious accessibility issue for patients and caregivers who experience limited mobility and access to their treatment. Health and sanitation: Patriot Care staff should be more mindful of health and safety hazards that could harm patients. When I arrived here as a first-time medical patient (the week of 1/20/2021) the receptionist was polite and responsive, but there was an open Red Bull can sitting on the desk-ledge where patients sign paperwork. In the midst of the COVID pandemic, this is especially concerning for medical patients who may have underlying health conditions or are immunocompromised. Regardless of whether or not we are living through a pandemic, leaving out open food and drink containers is unsanitary and unprofessional.