PANS News - Government
Jun 16 2011
Pharmacy agreement talks have stalled with deadline only two weeks away
SYDNEY, NS – Progressive Conservative leader Jamie Baillie says in two weeks, people going to pharmacies to fill their prescriptions may find their government Pharmacare cards not accepted and full cash payment required. Some pharmacies have begun to inform their customers that effective July 1st, Pharmacare cards may not be accepted at the prescription counter.
Tariff negotiations between the Pharmacy Association of Nova Scotia (PANS) and the Department of Health and Wellness broke down yesterday. PANS has requested an emergency meeting with Health and Wellness Minister Maureen MacDonald to try and resolve this issue. We will continue to keep you posted on this issue as we approach the June 30 deadline.
On May 13, 2011 the government of Nova Scotia passed Bill 17 (Fair Drug Pricing Act).
Liberal MLA Diana Whalen introduced a Hoist Motion to delay third reading of the Bill. All Liberal, Progressive Conservative and Independent MLAs supported Ms. Whalen’s motion. The NDP MLAs did not.
In a rare move, the NDP also shut down debate on third reading and forced a vote.
Bill 17 still has to be proclaimed to become law.
For Immediate Release May 13, 2011
Pharmacists' fears rise after NDP passes Bill 17
For Immediate Release April 12, 2011
Fair drug pricing law not so fair for pharmacists and patients
DARTMOUTH, NS - Nova Scotians who turn to pharmacists for many health services should be worried about the impact of the government's new drug pricing legislation.