The provincial government announced changes to Provincial Pharmacy services today to improve service to social assistance clients and clients in the provincial oral diabetes drug program.
Beginning this spring, all medications for these clients will be delivered at community retail pharmacies throughout the Island, rather than through the Provincial Pharmacy at the Sullivan Building in Charlottetown.
Health and Social Services Minister Mildred Dover advised that the change will make it easier and more convenient for clients to obtain prescriptions. "People will no longer have to travel to Charlottetown to get their medications or wait for them to be delivered through the mail. Rather, they will be able to go to their local pharmacy and get their prescriptions filled when it is most convenient for them. They can obtain their medications simply by presenting their personal health card. The $2. co-pay they were required to pay in the past at community pharmacies for emergency drugs under the Financial Assistance Program will be eliminated," said the minister.
Clients should also benefit from improved communication with their pharmacists. "People will get information first-hand from their own pharmacist about their medications and how to take them properly. We know this is very important in improving health outcomes," she said.
Minister Dover advised that the Provincial Pharmacy is not closing, but rather some services are being reorganized to improve service delivery. No one will lose their job as a result of the initiative, although some employees may be relocated.
The PEI Pharmaceutical Association is working closely with the health system to ensure a smooth and effective transition. "The changes will mean easier access to services and improved communication with pharmacists, and this is a very positive step forward in patient care," advised Pharmaceutical Association president, Brian Mark.
Clients will be advised before the new services come into effect.