Pharmacists throughout Alberta may soon dispense larger quantities of prescription drugs.
The Alberta government okayed increasing limits up to a 100-day supply.
Health Minister Tyler Shandro said during the COVID-19 pandemic, pharmacists could dispense up to 30 days supply of prescription drugs.
“Pharmacists continue to work tirelessly on the front lines, and we thank them for their efforts. We are confident that now is the time to adjust our guidance to help Albertans make fewer visits to pharmacies and to support pharmacists in reducing the volume of prescriptions to fill.”
Alberta Pharmacists’ Association CEO Margaret Wing said the recommendation helped stabilize most of the drug supply chain.
“While we understand that some medication shortages continue to exist for certain medications, we are confident that pharmacists will be able to transition patients back to receiving three-month supplies for the majority of their medications where appropriate.”
Alberta Blue Cross maintains a list of drug shortages and other supply chain issues on its website.
Government-sponsored drug plan members pay the maximum copayment of $8.00 for dispensed medications on the list.
Federal and provincial governments, industry partners, pharmacy organizations, and healthcare partners continue monitoring supply levels.
Pharmacies in the region made adjustments in the first three months of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Kris Lu, Pharmacy Manager at Dave Hill Pharmacy, said the transition was manageable, despite the increase in workload.
“Call-in consultations, drive-thru service, and contactless home delivery for prescriptions allows us to still provide personal pharmacist consultation while decreasing the chance of germ transmission.”
Lu added they also have a dedicated delivery service, increased cleaning procedures, and staff wear personal protective equipment.
He said the pharmacy remains open for injections and over-the-counter purchases daily.
“We do ask that members of the public who are feeling unwell, have travelled outside of the country in the last 14 days, or have been in contact with a known or suspected COVID-case still follow the guidelines and not enter pharmacies.”
Premier Jason Kenney announced the start of Stage 2 in Alberta’s Relaunch on June 12.
“We are thankful that our community in Fort McMurray has been understanding in helping us follow public health guidelines. With [Stage 2] happening soon, we will continue to do our utmost to keep our patients and colleagues safe.”
New limits on larger quantities for prescription drugs come into effect on June 15.
