Alberta pharmacists are now able to assess Albertans for COVID-19 and help manage drug supplies for patients.
On Thursday afternoon, the Alberta government announced pharmacists will be another way Albertans can access information about COVID-19.
Health Minister Tyler Shandro said the government needs to maximize the capabilities of health professionals at this time.
“Pharmacists have knowledge and experience in infectious diseases such as influenza and in helping Albertans with their questions and concerns. This measure acknowledges pharmacists’ role in the health system and in supporting patients,” Shandro said.
Pharmacists are initially going to be limited to screening and providing information about COVID-19, but Alberta Health Services (AHS) and the Alberta Pharmacists’ Association will remain in close collaboration on how to expand the role if needed.
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The provincial government said in a news release this could include direct referral for COVID-19 testing and supporting Health Link 811 in addressing Albertans’ information needs.
“We commend the quick action and responsiveness of Alberta Health to establish a compensation structure to support the care that Alberta’s community pharmacists are providing during the COVID-19 pandemic. Pharmacists play an essential role in the management, assessment, and screening of patient health indicators and helping patients understand their COVID-19 risk is an important support for Albertans,” said Margaret Wing, CEO of Alberta Pharmacists’ Association, in the news release.
The Alberta government is also recommended that pharmacies have the discretion to provide a maximum 30-day supply of prescription drugs to ensure Albertans have continued access to essential medications and to help pharmacists manage drug supplies.
Because some Albertans will need to refill their prescriptions more often than usual, they should speak with their pharmacist about when it is appropriate to do so.
“Albertans rely on their pharmacy teams for access to medications to manage their health needs. The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in drug shortages due to global demand. To ensure Albertans can access the medications they need, the Alberta College of Pharmacy supports measures that will reduce the likelihood of drug shortages by limiting prescription quantities to 30 days. This will assist in stabilizing our drug supply,” Greg Eberhart, Registrar, Alberta College of Pharmacy said in the news release.
To assist with the added cost, those with Alberta government-sponsored coverage for seniors and non-group coverage programs will pay a lower co-payment of up to $8 per prescription for a 30-day supply. The current co-payment is up to $25 per prescription. Albertans with other coverage should consult with their benefits provider.
Other provinces, including Ontario, British Columbia and Quebec, have either taken action or are in the process of implementing measures to protect drug supply chain stability.
