EDMONTON – Alberta is allowing a wider range of services to be dispensed by pharmacists.
In addition to dispensing prescription drugs, pharmacists will now be able to counsel patients on ways to stop smoking and set up care plans for those with chronic conditions.
The province is investing $55 million in the project, which is part of four-year plan signed with the Alberta Pharmacists Association.
“Pharmacists play an increasingly critical role in Alberta’s health care system,” said Ali Damani, president of the Alberta Pharmacists’ Association. “We are happy to see that fact recognized by the Alberta government through this new agreement. It will mean pharmacists can continue to provide high quality care to their patients, and ensure Albertans have more access to primary care by increasing the services pharmacists offer.”
The agreement comes into force on April 1 and Health Minister Fred Horne says the changes will reduce workloads for other health providers.
“This new partnership agreement will no doubt result in improved patient care throughout our province as pharmacists take on a greater role in our health care system,” said Horne.
The pharmacists will charge between $20 and $100 for the services.
The cost will be borne by taxpayers and not the individual patients.
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