The pharmacy, which opened in the Saratoga Village Shopping Center on Jan. 7 just in time for the cold season, is one of the few places in Saratoga that delivers prescription medication to customers who live within a 50-mile radius, which includes areas in Cupertino, Campbell, San Jose and Palo Alto.

Owner Arthur Gardiner, who shares all the delivery work with his son, said he plans to extend his services to Gilroy and the northern Bay Area sometime in the near future.

"I came up with the idea of offering free delivery because I realize many people need it, especially those who are less mobile and do not have the physical energy to go out and run a simple errand like picking up a prescription," said Gardiner.

The computer engineer turned businessman added that other people would find his services advantageous, such as busy professionals and parents with sick children.

Cliff Peterson, who recently had heart surgery, said he is glad he is able to have his medicine delivered to him, although he is only blocks away at Patrick James. As an employee at the men's clothing store, he said it's not an option to leave the store unattended.

Peterson, who expects to see Arthur on a regular basis because of his prescription needs, said he sees great potential in the newcomer.

"It's time we see more businesses that are service-oriented."

Free delivery is just one reason why customers appreciate the business, but in-house service and the cozy environment are other attractions. While customers wait to pick up their medication or during a consultation with one of the pharmacists, they can help themselves to a cup of coffee or tea and lounge on the chairs in front.

During consultation, pharmacists discuss a wide range of issues with their customers, from nutritional needs and supplements to affordable and equally effective drug alternatives.

"Our job is to make sure our customers don't spend a lot of money when they really don't have to," said Gardiner. "We also try to emphasize the interaction between our customers and their doctors."

Unique to many pharmacies in the area, Gardiner and his employees will call their clients' physicians to coordinate if and when the patient needs refills and will do follow-up phone calls to make sure patients are taking their medication correctly.

City Councilwoman Kathleen King is a big proponent of the pharmacy and attested to the store's promise. As a frequent customer with five young children, one of whom completed a bone marrow transplant and is in need of 12 different medications, King said that the customized service is one reason why she keeps coming back.

"It's nice to be able to deal with someone who knows our needs as well as we know them."

Many business owners along Big Basin Way, such as George Newton, manager of Patrick James, agreed that the new addition in the neighborhood would be a great asset to the community.

"It's a wonderful concept," said Newton.

Peterson added that it would be a great stepping stone to entice more customers to the area.