The people there are really caring.Rena is a real caring ,pharmachist,she would explain,she is really,smart

This is a story about the dispersal of a smalnified team at the old Hillcrest Pharmacy as it existed throughout the 90s until about 2002, Then some pharmacists from other cities realized there was a lot of money to be made dispensing HIV meds Suddenly, three new pharmacies opened in the area, They hired people from the Old Hillcrest pharmacy, made it less friendly more anonymous and clinical. The grey spotless wall, the great spotless floor, the big counter, nice and hight to keep the riffraff at bay. Now the pharmacy situation got more and more dispensed that I went to Hillcrest pharmacy and didn't recognize one person working there. I'm so glad that the best, most knowledgeable, and friendly pharmacist , Ivy Rooney went and started her own pharmacy called simply, "Ivy Pharmacy" on 4th Ave downstairs from Martinis Cocktail bar and directly across the street from the entrance to Club San Diego. It's fabulous. read more

The staff there are always so wonderful! The front desk person is so friendly and cool. The people on the phone are super helpful and informative. They offer free delivery. Live in North Park (west). They're always on top of making sure to deliver my meds in a timely fashion. When there's an Rx that I have to sign for, they will call me the day before to check to make sure I'll be home (or someone will be home) to sign for it. Our doorbell is broken, so they'll knock. If I'm out and my partner doesn't hear it, they always call me and then wait for my partner to come to the door. All the staff are so kind, patient, and knowledgeable. I'm so glad that the pharmacist, Patrick, works there cuz he's really good at explaining things. I especially want to give a shout-out and appreciation to Kaylene!! Last week, she answered my questions and gave clear explanations to the many questions I had about how certain ones of my meds worked. Then, today, when my doc sent a new dosage of an antibiotic, Kaylene called me to check and see if I needed it to be dropped off. I told her I'm not sure yet about the results of the labwork and wanted to discuss with my doc first for clarification on what the test result showed. I asked her about my current Rx vs. other antibiotics I've been taking since October. I've tried about 5 different antibiotics, and there's still pain. So Kaylene said some are bactericidal and some are bacteriostatic. The difference is this, "Antibiotics can be divided into two groups on the basis of their effect on microbial cells through two main mechanisms, which are either bactericidal or bacteriostatic. Bactericidal antibiotics kill the bacteria and bacteriostatic antibiotics suppress the growth of bacteria (keep them in the stationary phase of growth)." I asked Kaylene to transfer me to her supervisor cuz she was so helpful and patient. I looked up what she needed to double check... apparently, Macrodantin is NOT a bacteriostatic , it's actually bactericidal . So I'm glad she looked it up and corrected herself. She was great! She really took the time and care to explain all of that and more. 6 out of 5 for her specifically, but I guess she'll have to settle for 5 stars. Source: https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6270526/%23:~:text%3DAntibiotics%2520can%2520be%2520divided%2520to,the%2520stationary%2520phase%2520of%2520growth).&ved=2ahUKEwiyjPGl_K7_AhXLlWoFHVDcA-oQFnoECBwQBQ&usg=AOvVaw0Z-AvH8R5B462eqsApzkwf read more

I've been using AHF pharmacy for years. At times, their service has been disappointing. For two of the past three months, I was contacted by them that my three prescriptions were ready so I advised them to deliver. And they forgot about the delivery, so k had to call back and remind them again after a week. On both occasions, they responded that they had no record of my call. I have integrity and I expect my pharmacy to have integrity as well. Also, over the past year, I've noticed on more than one occasion the rush to get my prescriptions filled on the day they become available (much much earlier than when I run out). So this actually created an oversupply in my cabinet and wasn't sure how that happened until I started reviewing the dates of the renewals. Again I called them and they avoided my direct questions about pushing the prescriptions earlier than needed. So for these reasons I'm looking for another pharmacy. read more

(i seem to be limited in my editing ability ) - again - ORIGINAL i've been using these guys since they were on the other corner. with other owners. and now new, other, owners are in charge and it might as well be cvs. i use mail order which works best for me and usually it doesn't require me going in to the store or ordering online. last monday (1/11/21) i was in the store and the bully behind the counter came around the gate at me and was standing between me and the door after i suggested he might want to say 'thank you' to customers. i only have to go there 3 times a year and each time this guy is a snot, officious but incompetent. he never did say thank you. check your footage, roshi. he came around the counter and got between me and the exit. around 9:30am i think. also, the order was wrong of course. i'm looking to replace the 'service' but it doesn't seem possible to avoid ugly corporate designs ---- typing this is already too much of a f*#k for me to give. 2 WEEKS LATER RESPONSE 2/5/2021 Hello Jack, Thank you for visiting AHF Pharmacy Hillcrest.  We would like to apologize if you did not enjoy your recent experience with us. We would like to hear more about this matter so that we may take the appropriate action to address it. Please reach out to us at QualityAssurance@ahfrx.o... with more details. We look forward to working together to resolve this with you and restore your trust in our brand. Sincerely, AHF Pharmacy Hillcrest Customer Experience Team. MY RESPONSE TO THE CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE TEAM you expect ME to reach out to YOU? wtf is wrong with you? i gave you all the info you'd need to identify me from your surveillance. if you don't have surveillance, then add that to the long list of your general incompetence and lacking. besides cheating gov't programs, you want to cheat renters; https://www.politico.com/states/california/story/2019/08/19/powerhouse-aids-organization-faces-scrutiny-for-use-of-federal-money-1147976 you have a thrift store chain that brings in $1.5BILLION dollars you use to fuel political activities targeting the elderly and poor. do you want me to go on? cuz i can probably find lots of court cases involving your so-called "AIDS" foundation, since at least 2005 it looks like. i could link more or you can figure out who i am and call me. THAT might be a customer experience for you to discover! read more

This pharmacy has been a community gem before being taken over by AHF corporation. Since the take-over three years ago, the staff turnover has been shocking and regular. I'm not sure at the exact cause of the staff quitting at such alarming rates. That's something the staff will have to report here. Now, I use this pharmacy only when in dire need of some med that I know they carry. Every time I enter, most of the employees are new faces who don't know that I've been going here for over 20 years. Tragic. read more

I have been a customer of AHF or just plain Hillcrest Pharmacy for 25 or so years. At first I was their customer because I like supporting local businesses. Then over time we arrive when AHF somehow took ownership of their pharmacy in either supply chain, working capital or outright ownership. I don't know, but one or combination of the above occurred a few years back. Slowly the old employees have left, and as they now present themself as an HIV patient pharmacy, which I guess is okay since most of my medicines are not exotic. However, the new staff of gay and lesbian employees have been hired, presumably under AHF management functional management plan, they treat heterosexual people with disdain, and provide the least level of service possible. And, if anything like say iron suppliment is needed, they quip, this is an HIV pharmacy, we don't carry that. Which I believe is a silly remark since strong blood is good for anyone that is ill. Anycase, they take gleeful delight in making what they believe is humorous remarks to customers, such as; "Since your suppliers (they have only 2 now) don't carry this, could you transfer it to CVS for me?" They reply, "Why don't you use your feet and walk over there and get them to call us and ask for it?" While I am not sure of the mechanics of the right procedure, I am certain this has happened in the past when they were a private pharmacy, and I did not feel like I was being attacked for the laughs of the staff behind the counter person. I probably will leave them sometime before year end, and am looking for a locally owned pharmacy in HIllcrest San Diego meantime. If the above remarks are how you feel is a positive way, and having counter people treat your difficulties with gleeful delight. Then perhaps I am over reacting. I simply feel they have gone to pot. Sincerely, Henry McCluskey read more

Terrible, less than 1 star. That take no pride or ownership - 8 times I've called to have my meds delivered, 6 times they didn't show or call, when contacted they act like... whatever and tell me lies. AVOID, nevermind, I figured out why, they'll be good for you. read more

I began using AHF about two years per the strong recommendations of several loved ones. I can now confirm that AHF is the most consistently positive experience I've ever had with a pharmacy. Here is why: 1. Front desk (Nick even remembers my name) AND phone staff (I've spoken with Jasmine several times) are respectful and friendly. I never feel rushed when asking questions. 2. DELIVERY! My partner and I both have our medications delivered. This service is free and exceptionally convenient for us with our work schedules. We have never had any issues with delivery. 3. Transparency. I get a phone call confirming the co-pay every time there is a charge or if there's an issue with my insurance/card information. There are no surprises financially, which I really appreciate. Thank you AHF! read more

Have been a godsend this past year or more since I switched over! Wonderful staff , service. And delivery! Just remarkable! sooo much better than Allen (after they moved)! Thank you SOO much AHF! I CAnt thank you enough! Personal service in hard times... a true neighborhood establishment read more

Hillcrest pharmacy is by far the best place in San Diego. Nick is exceptional and is always greeting me with a smile! Kuddo's For Nick. read more

I am fairly new to SD and don't have many friends or family to help when I am sick. I was already in love with the staff and service at this pharmacy and in the process of moving all of my medications over to them and I got really sick with a virus for over a month that I had a hard time with. Patrick was so great working with me and my doctor in getting me the right cough syrup that worked great and brought my meds out to my car as I did not want to bring my sickness in to the customers and staff. He was so sweet in just making sure all my meds were right for me to get home and rest. Thanks to him and the other location, it was one trip and done with minimal waiting as always. Today, a week later, I am still nauseous and my doctor called me in an additional med for it in which I have not been able to get myself together to drive from being so sick. I called and inquired and they offered to have it delivered and not even 2 hours later I have my medicine delivered at no cost. I have never received such care and service from a pharmacy and it truly means a lot during this time of year for someone with minimal family and close friends by. Thank you so much for you kind service and overall compassion. It truly means the world to people such as myself. read more

I'm all about supporting your local business especially a little more bias when it's supporting the LGBTQ+ community. However, lately I've experience a few "oops" along the way. The past two prescriptions that I've tried to fill with them issues have arose. Either my insurance doesn't cover the medication (I would only find out upon arrival; however, that's not an excuse not to fill it or try a substitute like your competitors). Additionally, having to call to check if my prescription was sent by my doctor and checking if they received it. Long story short, small issues complicate a process that should be smooth. I'll conti read more

Hillcrest Pharmacy - Pharmacy Near Me - San Diego, California

Literally one of the worst pharmacies I've been to. The staff is friendly but I don't think I've ever walked out in a reasonable amount of time or with all my prescriptions. Nothing is ever ready, even when they say it is. read more

[ZERO STARS] So it gets worse. I follow up last week Thursday (2/18) to make sure everything is in so my pill pak box can be ready for this week. I was assured all was taken care of and that they were already in the process of billing the medications. Knowing this, I had contacted the pharmacy I'd be using for next month so they can begin transferring my prescriptions. Later on, I was told by AHF that the new pharmacy had contacted them and that once all the billing was done that they'd transfer all the prescriptions over. On Monday (2/22) I call AHF at 12:41pm but the call dropped, then again at 12:43pm no one answered so I left a message for the person I typically deal with to call me back. At 3:33pm I get a call on my main line that I couldn't answer. Then at 3:34pm I get a call on my secondary line that I did answer and I was told my box was ready for pickup. I didn't get a name as I was in the middle of something and I said I'd pick it up either that day or the next. So I show up on Tuesday (2/23) to pick up my box and I give the person behind the counter my information and within minutes I knew something was wrong and thought to myself "Here we go again!". Minutes later the pharmacist tells me that there is no box for me. That they had transferred all my prescriptions to my new pharmacy. Mind you, I'm down to my last 2 days of meds, and preparing that box is a time-consuming process yet the excuse I was given by the pharmacist was that the other pharmacy had called them 7 times, so she thought "If they can do it faster...". Then the truth comes out. They had told me that all my medications were billed last week and yet the request to prepare my box hadn't even been made by AHF to their processing facility yet. So then I ask why was I called and told my box was ready? She told me that no one should have called me because the prescriptions were at my new pharmacy. I show her on my phone the date, time, and their number on both my lines and how long the calls lasted. She kept thinking I'm the one that made the mistake even as I'm showing her proof I was called on both lines so obviously someone was trying to get a hold of me. She couldn't find any record of anyone calling. So yet again leaving me in a lurch because of their incompetence. Being a person of reasonable intelligence, I know how to identify someone/someplace on my phone with Caller ID. I also (thought I) knew that my box was supposed to be coming from AHF, so why would I make an unnecessary trip to pick up something they didn't even have?!?! I'm generally a nice person and have a great disposition but wrong is wrong and to try to twist something around to try to shift blame on someone else, basically lying, is not okay and I won't tolerate it, especially when it comes to dealing with my (life-saving) medications. This is my health and it was totally disregarded. I'd hate to see what they'd do to people who can't advocate for themselves. Glad to report my new pharmacy knocked it out of the park and had my box prepped and ready by this morning. read more

Vanessa, Vanessa, Vanessa... that's the person we turn to for our complicated prescriptions. Our insurance is not the best to work with (lots of hoops to jump through) and we travel a lot, so we often need to get meds for more than 30 days at a time. Our doctor's office has not always been the most responsive to us, which only complicates matters further. Despite all this, Vanessa never seems to have any trouble getting the approvals she needs from them in a more-than-timely manner. She calls us back and keeps us informed every step of the way, which we so appreciate. After spending years with the big box pharmacies, we discovered Hillcrest Pharmacy a couple years ago and it's been a breath of fresh air. All the staff, from Sergio up front (who is always in a good mood!) to the amazing pharmacists, who never make us feel like we're bothering them when calling and asking questions, everyone we've worked with has treated us kindly and makes us feel important as customers. Hats off to everyone at Hillcrest Pharmacy and a special callout to Sergio and Vanessa, whom we work with most often and keep us coming back. read more

I came to this pharmacy when I was released from Mercy Hospital after a traumatic experience. I walked in as a homeless man and this pharmacies customer service was absolutely outstanding. I was getting rx'd prep and pep that day. This kind ass woman with a light colored short hairstyle pulled me aside and had a conversation with me about how she was proud of me for being proactive about my health. Considering what I had just been through to get rx'd those drugs; her compassion, empathy and encouragement spoke to my heart. I mean I looked awful, had a fucking backpack with everything I owned in it and she didn't judge me or see any if that. She looked at me like a human fucking being and I will never forget her. I am off the streets now, back with my family in Colorado. But I just wanted to take the time to give tell that woman thank you. read more

An app on my phone AHF.org/mobileapp enables me to chat with staff and be notified when my prescriptions are ready.

New insurance usually a problem to deal with but Matti no problem at all. I could hear the smile over the phone as she patiently took all my information down to take care of my needs. If everyone place gave service like this the world would truly be a better place! Thank you guys n gals for all that you do! read more

After being fed up with going to CVS and other large chains to fill my prescriptions due to the lack of customer service, I figured I would try Hillcrest Pharmacy as it is the closest pharmacy to my house. The employee I talked to had a great attitude, and said that she could fill some of my prescriptions, but they were out of stock of one of my medications. Instead of offering to order the medication for me, she referred me to the Walgreens down the street. So much for that idea. read more

I've been going to this pharmacy for 3 years now and have not once ever had an issue with refills or making a prescription happen on the fly from my doctor. They are quick and efficient and super nice. Sergio always goes above and beyond at the desk. Thank you for your help and everything that you guys do! We appreciate each of your efforts to provide reliable service! read more

Drugs! AND candy! What else could you ask for? Some of the other reviews are bitchin about customer service... and I don't know what they're talking about. Every experience here has been delightful. They still give me courtesy calls and emails about my prescription being ready and they now know my name when I walk in. And did I mention the bowl of candy? Yeah. There's that. read more

Nightmare. I was a customer of Hillcrest Pharmacy for over 10 years, but since the AHF chain took over their operation has become a disaster. They have not gotten my monthly prescription refills right in three months. The refills should be automatic, the list is simple. I've had to call (when their phone system works) several times to prompt them to fill my prescriptions then several calls to get them corrected after they are missing or wrong. It's March 2 and I still haven't received my February refills which should have been delivered on Feb 17. The same excuse over and over, "we're changing systems". Changing systems for three months? Sorry, but that excuse is wearing thin. Three months is plenty of time to get their act together. I'll give them another month then will be looking for a new independent pharmacy- this one was the best, but has now been ruined. It truly is saddening because they used to be so awesome. Now, watch if AHF customer service post their generic "we care" response below as if there's some mystery behind why I'm frustrated with their service. The way to fix it is to do better, not offer boiler-plate platitudes and empty apologies. read more

Ditch the chain Pharmacies for 5-star service with a smile at Hillcrest Pharmacy. They truly are an amazing bunch of people who really care about the wellbeing of their clients. Support our local businesses and have your prescriptions transferred for easy pickup, free delivery, and exceptional service that even includes an after-hours line/contact for urgent situations. WOW! What other pharmacy has an after-hours line!?!? Not CVS, or Walgreens...that's for sure. That feature alone just saved me thousands of dollars today with the situation I had to deal with...without going into personal details. Big shout out to Sue, Dee, Ivy, Alicia, Alex, Sergio, and the whole gang at Hillcrest Pharmacy. You will forever have my sincerest gratitude for all the love and support over the years. read more

I had used Hillcrest Pharmacy for nearly 15 years, and they were competent, caring and helpful. But lately things have gone from bad to worse. Especially since they were taken over by AHF, they have lost whatever redeeming qualities they had left. They used to have my prescriptions filled on time, and would be proactive about contacting doctors for refills as needed, and working with my insurance for prior authorizations. Plus, they were a truly independently-owned pharmacy, and I like to support local businesses. Now, they are frankly a mess. They aren't proactive about anything, and they are just part of a large chain. The last straw was when they told me "we're not comfortable filling this prescription any more." Never mind I had filled the same prescription for 12 years. Their loss -- CVS happily filled it. Goodbye and good riddance. read more

If you want respect from the people at your Pharmacy and shorter wait times is it place to go. Definitely would recommend. Do they take all usually insurance read more

Very cognizant of LGBTQ clients needs, everyone I've encountered so far has been pleasant. Went to 4 different CVSs around the area beforehand and got the run around for T, but they had what I needed and had it prepped with no problems. read more

Hillcrest pharmacy is an excellent pharmacy they care about their clients with outstanding service and kindness always treat you with respect. the experience is always great. they make sure you get prescriptions within a perfect time. I been a customer for more than 10 years in that time I have always been treated with incredible service I have had outstanding experienced. everyone who answers the phone is kind and knowable makes a great effort to make sure are given the best service. You have try them to see how great they are. you undoubtedly become a client too. read more

Had no idea an experience with a pharmacy could be great until i went here. Nothing like CVS or Rite Aide, these people are friendly, fast and helpful both on the phone and in person. No long lines and no weirdos. read more

I don't usually go to non-chain pharmacies, but I decided to this time just because I happened to be in the neighborhood. Boy, was I sorry! The right hand doesn't know what the left hand is doing, and if you try to ask, they get nasty with you! I have moved my prescription to another pharmacy. So far, this second pharmacy has been wonderful. Once the transaction is complete, I will be writing a review on them as well. This pharmacy used to be really wonderful, and it's SUCH a disappointment to be treated poorly by ANY pharmacy, let alone one whose mission used to be serving special needs communities. Dont' go to this pharmacy! Their prices are inflated, and they don't seem to know the meaning of the word "resect." read more

When I dropped off my prescription on my lunch break on Friday, I was told it would take a few minutes to fill. I decided to go back the next day which was Saturday, and was told that it wasn't ready. I then proceeded to wait AN HOUR for my prescription, which I was informed by the cashier, was -supposedly- on auto renewal already!!! Then, the machine would not take my debit card which I'd not only used earlier in the day, but checked the balance on my phone at that exact moment and had more than enough in my account to cover my prescription. I ended up having to use my credit card because the machine would not read my card. I also signed up for delivery, but on the delivery date, I had to rearrange my work schedule in order to receive the first delivery, because they were late, BY AN HOUR. I -do not- recommend Hillcrest Pharmacy. It's much easier just to use the CVS or Rite Aid right next door, because atleast when they say they have auto-renewal, they mean it. And they always have my prescriptions available on time. read more

About one year ago I switched to Hillcrest Pharmacy and I couldn't be happier about it. Ivy and Sergio are outright amazing. The staff is professional, personable and always on top of their game when it comes to caring for me. Last month I changed insurance and again...they didn't miss a step. Ivy even called to ask if I wanted to apply for copay assistance for some of my meds. She then emailed me all the info and in 20 minutes it was in place. I can't imagine any other pharmacy taking such great care of their customers like HIllcrest Pharmacy does. Thanks guys! read more

Let's face it: If you are in need of a pharmacy, something is wrong--be it acute or chronic, mental or physical--you are trying to get well or stay well. Why add insult to injury and go to one of those terrible chain drugstores to endure awful & impersonal service? Hillcrest Pharmacy is independent, local and staffed with amazing, passionate people who care about your health and wellbeing. From dealing with insurance issues, communicating with doctors' offices--keeping me in the loop throughout--this place is the best. You will not regret it! They smile! They know your name! They are grateful for your business and they show it...yes this is a PHARMACY I'm talking about. (Hard to believe I know). I hate to choose favorites--everyone I've encountered here is a wonderful--but Nick Warren is a real gem; tell him I sent you. read more

Nice people, good service, mail order so I do not need to go and pick up my Rx every month. It is all on auto pilot, what more can you ask for. read more

Simply the best of the best. Always a pleasure to stop by or have my medication delivered. Spiffy dresser. Nick is a doll :) read more

The service here has gone way down hill. I use them because they are a specialty HIV pharmacy. They used to refill my HIV meds well before I needed them. But for the third month in a row, I'm down to my last pill and have not received a call from them letting me know my refill is ready. So tomorrow I will have to follow up to remind them. Part of the reason I use them is that they have always been proactive. Did something change? Ownership? Management? Caring? I used to feel like I could really rely on them. Now I don't feel like I can. It may be time to find a new pharmacy. read more

This is a good solid pharmacy, no complaints. No long lines. Nice people. I like the app - so I can order online.

I cannot say enough good things about Hillcrest Pharmacy. I will never ever ever use anybody else for prescription needs. They have a text alert service, their employees are super friendly, they always have candy for their customers, the wait time is always reasonable to no wait at all and I could go on and on. One employee in partricular Sergio is always beyond friendly and happy to be at work. I highly, HIGHLY recommend Hillcrest Pharmacy. read more

Honestly their customer service over the phone made me feel confident in their abilities. I'm going to use them over a pharmacy within walking distance from my home just because they took the time to understand what I needed and were willing to help me! read more

I've been working with Hillcrest pharmacy for over a year now and I LOVE their service, they really now the meaning of customer service and also the importance of returning calls and taking care of their customers. I personally have been working with Nick Warren and he has been more than great to me. Always answers my questions and returns my calls in an impecable timely manner. I would recommend working with him. Thank you so much for the amazing job you guys do, you really make a difference and make our lives easier. Keep up the good work! read more