Starting today, some local pharmacies around the province will offer more healthcare services.
The province is investing in just under $1 million for The Community Pharmacy Primary Care Clinics program, which will be piloting 12 clinics across NS, with more expected in the spring.
There, pharmacists will see patients with common illnesses and those who are on medication for chronic illnesses, such as cardiovascular and lung disease, asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
They will also prescribe and manage medications for certain diseases, like diabetes, and will be able to test, diagnose and treat strep throat, something not previously available at pharmacies.
“We need to change how we deliver healthcare to help Nova Scotians get the care they need faster,” said Michelle Thompson, Minister of Health and Wellness. “Pharmacists are highly trained healthcare professionals. We’re building and testing a system where they can use all their training and skills to give people the care they need, in a place that’s often the closest place to home – their pharmacy. In doing this, we will help people stay well, and free up emergency departments for emergencies.”
The pharmacies under the pilot program, will receive additional funding for providing added care including assessing and prescribing 31 minor ailments such as cold sores, minor joint and muscle pains, eczema and heart burn.
Some care services are already provided at pharmacies at no cost, such as assessment and treatment for urinary tract infections, shingles, contraception, Lyme disease prevention and prescription renewals.
Assessment and treatment record will be held at the pharmacy, or provided to the patient unless they have a family doctor.
The complete list of services and information on booking appointments are available at: https://pans.ns.ca/cppcc.
Quotes:
“We are improving access to primary care in Nova Scotia one pharmacy clinic appointment at a time. These clinics will be a quicker, easier way for people to get care and stay healthy. We are thrilled pharmacists will be able to practise to their full scope and be part of the solution for better healthcare in our province.”
–Allison Bodnar, CEO, Pharmacy Association of Nova Scotia
“The Nova Scotia College of Pharmacists has been working to enable pharmacists to bring their full expertise in drug therapy management to their patients. Using pharmacists in primary care is the right thing to do for improved health outcomes and to make better use of our existing health workforce. This is an important shift in healthcare delivery as we work towards solutions for our current crisis and supporting Nova Scotians in getting the right care, from the right person, at the right time.”
–Beverley Zwicker, CEO and Registrar, Nova Scotia College of Pharmacists
“I’ve been a pharmacist for 22 years, and our role in healthcare has changed a lot in that time. These new clinics will allow me to use my skills, training and knowledge like never before. I’m eager for the clinic to open and cherish the opportunity to play such a critical role in the delivery of healthcare in my community.”
–Alvin Thompkins, pharmacist, Dartmouth
Appointments open tomorrow at the following clinics:
Pharmacy locations with appointments available beginning Wednesday:
•Shoppers Drug Mart, 118 Wyse Rd., Dartmouth
•Guardian Bedford, 535 Larry Uteck Blvd., Bedford
•North Sydney PharmaChoice, 107 King St., North Sydney
•Shoppers Drug Mart, 254 Prince St., Sydney
•Shoppers Drug Mart, 912 East River Rd., New Glasgow
•The Medicine Shoppe, 664 Prince St., Truro
•Wilsons Pharmasave, 213 Commercial St., Berwick
•Bridgewater Guardian Pharmacy, 42 Glen Allan Dr., Bridgewater
•Shoppers Drug Mart, 1124 Bridge St., Greenwood
•TLC Pharmasave, 157 Water St., Shelburne
•City Drug Store, 369 Main St., Yarmouth
Brookline Pharmacy at 105-6 Bloom Lane, Bedford, will have appointments starting later in February.
