Quebec pharmacists will soon have more authority to assist individuals with their healthcare needs. The provincial government has announced plans to expand the role of pharmacists in the healthcare system, giving them more power to help people.
Under the new regulations, pharmacists will be able to renew prescriptions for chronic conditions, such as high blood pressure and diabetes, without requiring a doctor’s approval. This will save patients time and money, as they will no longer have to make an appointment with their physician for a simple prescription renewal.
In addition, pharmacists will also be able to administer certain vaccines, such as the flu shot, to individuals aged 14 and older. This will help increase access to vaccinations and promote public health.
The changes are part of the government’s efforts to improve access to healthcare services and alleviate the strain on the healthcare system. With pharmacists taking on a larger role, it is expected that wait times for doctor appointments will decrease and patients will have more convenient options for managing their health.
The Quebec Order of Pharmacists has welcomed the news, stating that it will allow pharmacists to use their expertise and knowledge to better serve their patients. They also believe that this will lead to better health outcomes for individuals in the province.
However, some concerns have been raised about the potential for pharmacists to overstep their boundaries and potentially miss important health issues that a doctor may have caught during a prescription renewal. To address these concerns, the government has stated that pharmacists will undergo additional training and have access to patient medical records to ensure safe and effective care.
The changes are set to come into effect in the fall of 2021, giving pharmacists time to prepare for their expanded role. This move has been praised by many as a step towards a more efficient and patient-centered healthcare system in Quebec.
