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By Langley MLA Andrew Mercier

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SOUND OFF: Pharmacists helping British Columbians

Aug 16, 2023 | 8:53 AM

MEETING THE HEALTHCARE NEEDS of people in B.C. is one of the highest priorities of our government right now. We’re working hard to open and upgrade hospitals and clinics, and recruit and retain primary care providers for team-based care, which will help to strengthen our public health system over the longer term.

But we’re also taking action that has improved the healthcare experience right away. One of the biggest improvements has been making it easier to get care from your local community pharmacist.

Since the start of summer, British Columbians have been able to have minor ailments assessed and treated at their local pharmacies, instead of having to wait to see a doctor. Pharmacists can now prescribe many treatments on the spot, as well as prescribe contraception – and most forms of prescription contraception are now free in B.C. I’ve heard from people that this has been especially helpful for British Columbians who don’t have family doctors.

Since June 1, over 40,400 patients have been assessed by a pharmacist in one of the 1,200 participating pharmacies in British Columbia, and that number continues to grow.

My government colleagues and I have been meeting with pharmacists across B.C., who have also said how helpful the new services have been for their patients and their communities. This service has been making a huge difference for people who live in rural areas, and for seniors, who may be closer to their local pharmacist than their nearest clinic or doctor’s office.

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By allowing patients to walk-in to pharmacies or book appointments online for assistance with minor ailment and contraceptive service, we’re helping save British Columbians time this summer and helping take pressure off clinics, doctors’ offices and emergency rooms.

Pharmacists have always been valued and knowledgeable members of our communities, and now, they are able to take on an even more hands-on role with the patients who rely on and trust them.

You can now walk in to see a pharmacist or book an appointment in advance at a time that works for your schedule. Just visit gov.bc.ca/seeapharmacist to see and choose from available appointments at nearby pharmacies.

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Editor’s Note: This opinion piece reflects the views of its author, and does not necessarily represent the views of CFJC Today or Pattison Media.