Dartmouth, NS – Pharmacists and pharmacy technicians across the province want Nova Scotians to know how they can help increase access to healthcare. This is particularly important during a time where it is estimated that more than 50,000 Nova Scotians are without access to a family doctor.

While most people know of pharmacy’s important role in dispensing medications, most are not aware of growing list of other healthcare services that pharmacy teams across this province provide.

“We’re trying to encourage Nova Scotians to rethink pharmacy services,” says Allison Bodnar, CEO of the Pharmacy Association of Nova Scotia (PANS). “Pharmacy teams have always played an important role in the healthcare system, but they can do so much more.”

Pharmacists also have the ability to:

• Renew or extend prescriptions for many medications for up to 180 days
• Adapt the dosage, regimen and format of prescribed medications
• Assess and prescribe for minor ailments
• Help manage chronic conditions
• Provide advice on and administer many vaccinations

“Studies show that when pharmacists work to their full scope of practice, patients are healthier,” says Curt Chafe, Chair of the Board for PANS. “Increased access to healthcare is needed in this province, and pharmacists can help.”

Better utilizing pharmacy teams will not only provide Nova Scotians with better access to health services, but will also alleviate wait times in hospital emergency rooms. A study by the University of Waterloo found that one out of three non-urgent emergency room visits could be managed by pharmacists.

Pharmacies are accessible, convenient, open extended hours and employ skilled professionals capable and ready to do so much more.  By enabling better access to pharmacy services, Government can make a long lasting, positive impact on the health and well-being of Nova Scotians.  

About the Pharmacy Association of Nova Scotia

The Pharmacy Association (PANS) is the voice of pharmacists and pharmacy technicians in Nova Scotia. Its mission is to support the professional and economic interests of its members to advance the practice of pharmacy and improve the health of Nova Scotians.

More information is available at pans.ns.ca

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For more information, please contact:

Amy Wagg
Director of Communications
Pharmacy Association of Nova Scotia
Phone: (902) 422-9583 ext. 4
Email: amy@pans.ns.ca