CPhA: About CPhA: What's Happening: News Releases: Archived News Releases

CPhA Takes Action

CPhA in the News

News Releases

>> Archived News Releases

Government Relations

International Pharmacy




send page to a friend

	Archived News Releases 2009 \| 2008 \| 2007 \| 2006 \| 2005 \| 2004 \| 2003 \| 2002 \| 2001 \| 2000 \| 1999 \| 1998 2009 November 16, 2009 Joint Statement Marshals Forces to Greening Health Care Twelve national organizations representing all areas of the health sector, joined by the David Suzuki Foundation, have produced a joint statement spelling out a new commitment to creating an environmentally responsible health sector. It is being released just prior to the Copenhagen Climate Summit in December to help raise environmental awareness and action. November 16, 2009 Un énoncé commun mobilise des forces pour l'écologisation des soins de santé Douze organisations nationales représentant tous les domaines du secteur de la santé, en collaboration avec la Fondation David Suzuki, ont produit un énoncé commun décrivant un nouvel engagement envers la création d'un secteur de la santé respectueux de l'environnement. L'énoncé, diffusé juste avant le Sommet de Copenhague sur le climat, en décembre, veut sensibiliser davantage la population à l'environnement et susciter l'action. November 2, 2009 Pharmacists positioned to help patients with diabetes management An estimated 1.8 million Canadians are currently living with diabetes and that number that is rapidly growing. Chronic diseases, like diabetes, put a huge burden on the Canadian health care system and the direct costs to the system, from diabetes alone, are expected to exceed $15 billion by next year. October 29, 2009 Canada's family physicians and pharmacists collaborate for better patient care Canada's family physicians will have a new tool to stay abreast of emerging evidence and enhance patient care, thanks to a new partnership between The Canadian Pharmacists Association (CPhA) and the College of Family Physicians of Canada (CFPC). The project will be launched at the Family Medicine Forum (FMF) in Calgary on October 28, 2009. October 22, 2009 Alberta strategy promotes significant change for pharmacy The Canadian Pharmacists Association (CPhA) welcomes the commitment made by the Government of Alberta Health and Wellness ministry to work with pharmacists and pharmacy organizations on a transition strategy supportive of a new reimbursement model for professional services provided by pharmacists to meet the health care needs of Albertans. September 22, 2009 Canadians Trust Doctors and Pharmacists Most According to a new Nanos Research poll, Canadians rate physicians and pharmacists highest among 18 professions, when it comes to honesty and ethics. Seventy-seven per cent of respondents call medical doctors' standards of honesty and ethics "high" or "very high", while the figure was 73 per cent for community pharmacists. January 28, 2009 Budget Support for Electronic Health Records and Aboriginal Health Important Contribution The Canadian Pharmacists Association (CPhA) welcomes the investments outlined in the federal budget for meeting the commitment to provide Canadians with electronic health records and to invest in the health of aboriginal people. back to top 2008 December 19, 2008 Parents and Caregivers: Talk to your Pharmacist about Cough and Cold Medications in Children Health Canada has advised that orally administered over-the-counter cough and cold products with certain active ingredients should only be used in children 6 years of age and older. November 25, 2008 Recommendations from Competition Bureau Cover Familiar Ground In a report presented today by Sheridan Scott, Commissioner, Competition Bureau, at the Economic Club of Toronto, the Competition Bureau advocated for efforts to be made to change the way generic drugs are paid for in an effort to pass benefits on to payers or consumers. September 25, 2008 Government Funding of Community Pharmacy Services Falls Short An independent study released yesterday shows that the median cost of filling a prescription in a sample of 505 pharmacies in Ontario is $13.77. The Ontario Drug Benefit Program reimburses, on average, $8.70 per prescription. May 15, 2008 Pharmacists Disappointed by Emergency Contraception Decision The Canadian Pharmacists Association (CPhA) does not support the decision to move emergency contraception pills (ECP) onto front store pharmacy shelves. The National Association of Pharmacy Regulatory Authorities, based on a recommendation from a national advisory committee, today decided to move levonorgestrel, also known as Plan B®, from behind the pharmacy counter, where sale required consultation with a pharmacist. May 15, 2008 Les pharmaciens sont déçus de la décision sur contraception d'urgence L'Association des pharmaciens du Canada (APhC) n'appuie pas la décision de permettre la vente libre des contraceptifs d'urgence. L'Association nationale des organismes de réglementation de la pharmacie, suite à une recommandation d'un comité consultatif national, a décidé aujourd'hui de permettre que le lévonorgestrel, aussi appelé Plan B®, soit en vente libre, où il ne sera plus nécessaire de consulter un pharmacien pour en acheter. April 16, 2008 Canadian Pharmacists Association Launches Pharmacists in the Classroom Educating on the Safe Use of Medicine back to top 2007 August 21, 2007 Pharmacists Disappointed in CMA Decision After national consultation with pharmacy stakeholders, the Canadian Pharmacists Association (CPhA) has released a position statement that endorses prescriptive authority for pharmacists that is collaborative, patient centred and focused on addressing the health care needs of the patient. Such authority is an important means of increasing Canadians' access to medication and appropriate medication use. August 21, 2007 Les pharmaciens déçus de la décision de l'AMC Suite à une consultation nationale avec des intervenants dans le domaine de la pharmacie, l'Association des pharmaciens du Canada (APhC) a publié une déclaration à l'appui du pouvoir de prescrire pour les pharmaciens. Ce pouvoir de prescription serait collaboratif, axé sur les patients et porterait surtout sur la nécessité de répondre aux besoins de soins de santé des patients. Un tel pouvoir constitue une manière importante de rendre les médicaments et leur bonne utilisation plus accessibles aux Canadiens et Canadiennes. July 6, 2007 Internet Drug Death a Warning to Canadians Canada's first confirmed death from counterfeit drugs purchased over the internet reinforces long-stated concerns of the Canadian Pharmacists Association (CPhA). A BC Coroner's report has concluded that pills bought from a fake online pharmacy are to blame for the March death of a Vancouver Island woman. These drugs were later determined to be contaminated with extremely high quantities of metal. July 6, 2007 Décès dû à un médicament acheté sur l'Internet : un avertissement pour les Canadiens Le premier décès confirmé au Canada qui soit dû à un médicament de contrefaçon acheté sur l'Internet confirme l'inquiétude que l'Association des pharmaciens du Canada (APhC) exprime depuis longtemps. Un rapport du coroner de la C.-B. a conclu que des pilules achetées d'une fausse pharmacie en ligne ont causé le décès d'une femme de l'Île de Vancouver, en mars dernier. Il a été établi que ces médicaments contenaient des quantités extrêmement élevées de métal. May 4, 2007 Threat Grows of Exports of Canadian Drugs According to the Canadian Pharmacists Association (CPhA), American legislation could mean difficult days ahead for patients, as yesterday's passage of a US Senate bill moves the export of Canadian drugs to the US closer to reality. May 4, 2007 La menace de l'exportation de médicaments canadiens augmente Selon l'Association des pharmaciens du Canada (APhC), une loi américaine pourrait rendre l'avenir plus difficile pour les patients. En effet, l'adoption, hier, d'une loi par le Sénat américain rapproche la réalité de l'exportation de médicaments canadiens aux États-Unis. April 26, 2007 Buying Drugs Online 'Buyer Beware' There are thousands of internet websites out there selling prescription drugs, experimental drugs and all kinds of 'miracle cures'. You can be risking your health and even your life by buying drugs over the internet. While some sites might be legitimate and licensed, many more have been created to look like legitimate Canadian pharmacies but are neither. If you order from these sites, you might get counterfeit drugs with no active ingredients, drugs with substandard or dangerous ingredients, or drugs past their expiry date. You might receive an incorrect dose or no product at all. Or you might have your personal and credit card information stolen by organized crime. April 26, 2007 Acheter des médicaments en ligne - Attention acheteurs Il existe des milliers de sites Web où l'on vend des médicaments sous ordonnance, des médicaments expérimentaux et toutes sortes de « cures miracles ». Vous pourriez risquer votre santé, voire votre vie si vous achetez des médicaments sur l'Internet. Bien que certains sites soient légitimes et autorisés, il y en a beaucoup plus qui ont été créés pour ressembler à d'authentiques pharmacies canadiennes, mais qui, en fait, ne le sont pas. Si vous commandez de ces sites, vous risquez de recevoir des médicaments falsifiés, sans ingrédient actif ou comportant des ingrédients inférieurs aux normes et même dangereux ou passés leur date de péremption. Vous pourriez recevoir une dose erronée ou ne recevoir aucun produit, ou alors le crime organisé pourrait voler vos renseignements personnels et votre numéro de carte de crédit. March 22, 2007 Pharmacist, patient groups call for inquest into B.C. counterfeit-pills death A coalition of Canadian pharmacists and patients today called on the Regional Coroner for Vancouver Island to hold an inquest into the death of a British Columbia woman who died apparently after taking counterfeit pills she ordered online from a purported Canadian internet pharmacy. March 21, 2007 Canadian Internet Drug Death a Warning What appears to be Canada's first death from tainted drugs purchased over the internet is a warning to Canadians and a major concern to the Canadian Pharmacists Association (CPhA). According to the provincial coroner, a British Columbia woman has died after using contaminated drugs that she bought over the internet from an illegitimate pharmacy posing as Canadian. March 21, 2007 Un décès au Canada à cause d'un médicament acheté sur l'Internet constitue un avertissement Ce qui semble être le premier décès au Canada dû à un médicament contaminé acheté sur lInternet constitue un avertissement pour les Canadiens et une préoccupation majeure pour lAssociation des pharmaciens du Canada (APhC). Selon le coroner provincial, une femme de Colombie-Britannique est morte après avoir pris des médicaments contaminés quelle avait achetés sur l'Internet auprès dune pharmacie illégitime qui se faisait passer pour canadienne. March 19, 2007 2007 Budget: Pharmacists Support Funding of Health Technology The Canadian Pharmacists Association (CPhA) commends the federal government's provision of $400 million to Canada Health Infoway to fund quicker implementation of information technology that supports the delivery of health services. March 19, 2007 Budget 2007 : Les pharmaciens appuient le financement de la technologie de la santé L'Association des pharmaciens du Canada (APhC) félicite le gouvernement fédéral qui a prévu une somme de 400 millions de dollars pour l'Inforoute Santé du Canada, dans le but de financer plus rapidement la mise en oeuvre d'une technologie de l'information qui appuie la prestation de services de santé. February 2, 2007 Pharmacists: Health Council Gives Pharmaceutical Management Poor Marks The Canadian Pharmacists Association (CPhA) concurs with the conclusions in the Health Council of Canada's Annual Report 2007 that little progress has been made on implementing important aspects of a National Pharmaceuticals Strategy (NPS). The Report concludes that while options have been developed, actions to implement catastrophic drug coverage have not occurred. Nor have collaborative efforts taken place to encourage or support effective prescribing, which was contained in the 2004 NPS framework, but has seen minimal activity. February 2, 2007 Le Conseil canadien de la santé accorde une note médiocre à la gestion des produits pharmaceutiques L'Association des pharmaciens du Canada (APhC) arrive aux mêmes conclusions que le Rapport annuel 2007 du Conseil canadien de la santé, selon lesquelles on a enregistré peu de progrès quant à la mise en oeuvre des aspects importants de la Stratégie nationale relative aux produits pharmaceutiques (SNPP). D'après les conclusions du rapport, bien qu'on ait élaboré de nouvelles options, on n'a pris aucune mesure pour instaurer la couverture des médicaments onéreux. De plus, aucun effort concerté n'a permis d'encourager ni de soutenir une prescription efficace, élément de la SNPP de 2004, qui a cependant donné lieu à une activité minimale. January 11, 2007 Canadian Pharmacists Association Celebrates its Centennial The Canadian Pharmacists Association (CPhA) is celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2007. This Centennial is a major milestone for the association and for all pharmacists, as we celebrate the progress and change that have occurred within our profession over the past 100 years. January 11, 2007 L'Association des pharmaciens du Canada célébrons son centenaire L'Association des pharmaciens du Canada célèbre son centième anniversaire en 2007. Ce centenaire représente une étape déterminante pour l'association et pour tous les pharmaciens, elle nous donne l'occasion de célébrer les progrès et l'évolution de notre profession lors des 100 dernières années. January 10, 2007 U.S. Congress threatens Canada's prescription drug supply Canadian pharmacist and patients' groups warned today that the federal government should act soon to protect Canada's prescription drug supply following the introduction of a bulk-import bill in the U.S Congress. back to top 2006 November 2, 2006 Pharmacists Welcome Drug Export Bill C-378 with a Reservation The Canadian Pharmacists Association (CPhA) welcomes Bill C-378 as a critical step forward but believes it does not go quite far enough. Tabled by M.P. Dr. Carolyn Bennett, the Bill would amend the Food and Drugs Act to provide any Minister of Health with the authority to ban bulk drug exports. Brian Stowe, CPhA's president, commented, 'This bill is a positive step since the government in power has demonstrated little interest in this potentially explosive issue. However, CPhA believes that any legislation should ban personal drug exports, as well as bulk exports.' November 2, 2006 Les pharmaciens expriment une certaine réserve - loi sur l'exportation des médicaments Les pharmaciens accueillent favorablement le projet de loi sur l'exportation des médicaments 'mais expriment une certaine réserve September 21, 2006 NPS Progress Report: First the report, now action! says Coalition Today's release of the National Pharmaceutical Strategy (NPS) progress report clearly shows the time has come for action on developing a pan-Canadian drug strategy for Canada. That is the conclusion of the Coalition for a Canadian Pharmaceutical Strategy, an alliance representing patients, health professionals, health system managers and trustees: the Best Medicines Coalition, Canadian Medical Association, Canadian Nurses Association, Canadian Pharmacists Association and Canadian Healthcare Association. September 21, 2006 La réaction de l'APhC au Rapport de progrès sur la SNPP L'Association des pharmaciens du Canada (APhC) accueille favorablement la publication du Rapport de progrès sur la Stratégie nationale relative aux produits pharmaceutiques (SNPP). Nous sommes particulièrement heureux de l'engagement à impliquer tous les intervenants et à poursuivre les initiatives résumées dans le rapport. Des progrès encourageants ont déjà été réalisés dans un certain nombre de domaines, comme le développement d'une étude de recherche sur la situation après la mise en marché pour la maladie de Fabry et l'engagement à promouvoir une utilisation optimale des médicaments comme partie intégrante du formulaire national commun. September 21, 2006 Rapport d'étape de la SNPP : d'abord le rapport, maintenant l'intervention La publication aujourd'hui du rapport Réalisations et prochaines étapes de la Stratégie nationale relative aux produits pharmaceutiques (SNPP) montre clairement que le temps est venu de prendre des mesures concrètes pour formuler une stratégie pancanadienne sur les médicaments. C'est la conclusion à laquelle en vient la Coalition pour une stratégie pharmaceutique canadienne, alliance qui représente les patients, les professionnels de la santé, les gestionnaires et les administrateurs du système de santé, par l'entremise des associations suivantes : la Coalition pour de meilleurs médicaments, l'Association médicale canadienne, l'Association des infirmières et infirmiers du Canada, l'Association des pharmaciens du Canada et l'Association canadienne des soins de santé. September 21, 2006 CPhA's Response to the National Pharmaceuticals Strategy Progress Report September 21, 2006, (OTTAWA) The Canadian Pharmacists Association (CPhA) welcomes the release of the National Pharmaceuticals Strategy (NPS) Progress Report. We are particularly pleased with the commitment to engage all stakeholders and move forward with initiatives outlined in the report. Encouraging progress has already been made in a number of areas, such as the development of a post market research study for Fabry's disease and the commitment to promote optimal drug use as a part of the common national formulary. August 29, 2006 Canadian Elected as FIP President The International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP) has elected Dr. Kamal Midha of Saskatoon as its president for the 2006-2010 term. The announcement was made this week at FIP's 66th congress in Salvador Bahia, Brazil. August 16, 2006 Voyager en avion avec des médicaments délivrés sur ordonnance - Annonce d'intérêt public L'Association des pharmaciens du Canada (APhC) informe la population canadienne que la nouvelle réglementation de Transport Canada concernant les bagages à main touche les Canadiens et Canadiennes qui transportent des médicaments délivrés sur ordonnance ou en vente libre lorsqu'ils voyagent en avion. August 16, 2006 Travelling by Air with Prescription Medications - Public Service Announcement The Canadian Pharmacists Association (CPhA) advises Canadians that new Transport Canada security regulations regarding carry-on baggage affects Canadians travelling with prescription and over the counter medications. July 26, 2006 Pharmacists Express Concern about Patient Safety The Canadian Pharmacists Association (CPhA) is concerned that the results of a recent US study on the high prevalence of medication errors are being mirrored in Canada. The study, carried out by the Institute of Medicine and entitled Preventing Medication Errors, concluded that drug errors are so widespread that hospital patients, for example, should expect to suffer one every day they remain hospitalized (although most do not lead to injury). At least a quarter of these medication related errors are preventable. July 26, 2006 Les pharmaciens expriment leurs préoccupations face à la sécurité des patients L'Association des pharmaciens du Canada (APhC) craint que les résultats d'une étude publiés récemment aux États-Unis quant à la prévalence élevée des erreurs de médication ne se reflètent également au Canada. D'après les conclusions de cette étude, menée par l'Institut de médecine des États-Unis et intitulée Preventing Medication Errors (Prévenir les erreurs de médication), les erreurs liées aux médicaments sont répandues à un point tel que les patients hospitalisés, par exemple, peuvent s'attendre à souffrir une journée sur deux durant leur séjour à l'hôpital. (Toutefois, la plupart de ces erreurs n'occasionnent aucune lésion.) Pourtant, le quart de ces erreurs de médication, au minimum, sont évitables. July 21, 2006 Coalition pour une stratégie pharmaceutique canadienne presse les premiers ministres d'agir Dans une lettre ouverte adressée aux premiers ministres provinciaux avant la réunion du Conseil de la fédération cette semaine, la Coalition pour une stratégie pharmaceutique canadienne a annoncé la publication de son Cadre d'une stratégie pharmaceutique canadienne. July 21, 2006 Coalition for a Canadian Pharmaceutical Strategy calls on Premiers to act In an open letter to Premiers prior to the Council of Federation meeting this week, the Coalition for a Canadian Pharmaceutical Strategy released its Framework for a Canadian Pharmaceutical Strategy. May 30, 2006 Pharmacists explore role in improving health care of Canadians Join us June 3-6 for the Canadian Pharmacists Association's 94th Annual National Conference in Edmonton. Pharmacists from across Canada will be gathering at one of the country's largest health care conferences to discuss current issues related to drug therapy and disease management. May 8, 2006 Canadian Pharmacists Association and Scotiabank Renew Banking Partnership The Canadian Pharmacists Association (CPhA) and Scotiabank today announced a three year renewal of their strategic alliance to offer enhanced financial services to CPhA members, including pharmacy students. The CPhA and Scotiabank have held an exclusive banking services partnership since 1996. May 8, 2006 L'APhC et la Banque Scotia renouvellent leur partenariat en matière de services bancaires L'Association des pharmaciens du Canada (APhC) et la Banque Scotia ont annoncé aujourd'hui le renouvellement pour trois ans de leur alliance stratégique qui permet aux membres de l'APhC, y compris aux étudiants en pharmacie, de bénéficier de services financiers améliorés. L'APhC et la Banque Scotia ont un partenariat exclusif en matière de services bancaires depuis 1996. April 28, 2006 Innovative Health Technology Tool Launched e Therapeutics, a new, easy to use web resource from the Canadian Pharmacists Association (CPhA) provides primary health care professionals with quick access to current, more accurate drug information greatly improving patient safety. Developed with the strategic support of IBM, e Therapeutics delivers centralized and unbiased Canadian drug and therapeutic information online or via hand held devices directly to physicians, pharmacists and nurses. Health professionals can quickly find drug therapy information, compare treatment options and choose the appropriate therapy without searching multiple references. April 28, 2006 Lancement d'un outil technologique novateur pour la santé e-Therapeutics, une nouvelle ressource facile à utiliser sur le Web de l'Association des pharmaciens du Canada (APhC), fournit aux professionnels des soins de santé un accès rapide aux renseignements courants et plus exacts sur les médicaments - améliorant grandement la sécurité des patients. Développé grâce au soutien stratégique de IBM, e-Therapeutics fournit des renseignements centralisés et impartiaux sur les médicaments et les produits thérapeutiques au Canada en ligne ou par l'entremise d'appareils portatifs, directement aux médecins, pharmaciens et infirmières et infirmiers. Les professionnels de la santé peuvent rapidement trouver les renseignements sur la pharmacothérapie, comparer les options de traitement et choisir la thérapie adéquate sans devoir faire des recherches dans de nombreuses références. back to top 2005 October 25, 2005 Tamiflu Demonstrates Urgent Need to Stop Drug Exports According to the Canadian Pharmacists Association, yesterdays announcement by Roche Canada regarding suspension of Tamiflu shipments to Canadian pharmacies demonstrates the need for Health Canada to stop the sale of Canadian drugs across the border. Roche stated this decision is the result of higher than normal demand for Tamiflu as a result of the heightened interest in avian influenza and in the absence of seasonal flu. September 13, 2005 Des pharmaciens de l'Alberta remportent un prix international Le Dr Ross Tsuyuki et Terri Schindel, tous deux du Centre for Community Pharmacy Research & Interdisciplinary Strategies (COMPRIS) (Centre de Recherche sur la pharmacie communautaire et de Stratégies interdisciplinaires) de l'Université de l'Alberta, ont reçu un prix spécial la semaine dernière lors du Congrès mondial de la Fédération internationale pharmaceutique (FIP) qui a eu lieu au Caire. September 13, 2005 Alberta Pharmacists Win International Award Dr. Ross Tsuyuki and Terri Schindel, both with the Centre for Community Pharmacy Research & Interdisciplinary Strategies (COMPRIS) at the University of Alberta, received a special award last week at the International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP) World Congress in Cairo. Tsuyuki and Schindel won this prestigious award for their paper entitled Leading Change in Pharmacy Practice: Fully Engaging Pharmacists in Patient Oriented Healthcare. The award, which is sponsored by IMS Health and the Community Pharmacy Section of FIP, recognizes original works that demonstrate the important role that pharmacists play in healthcare. June 30, 2005 Physicians & Pharmacists Welcome Health Minister's Promise to Consult Cross-Border Drug Initiatives Canadian medical and pharmacy organizations welcomed the Health Minister's announcement that the federal government was taking steps to protect the country's drug supply. June 30, 2005 Les médecins et pharmaciens se réjouissent Les médecins et les pharmaciens se réjouissent de la promesse du ministre de la Santé de les consulter au sujet des initiatives sur l'exportation de médicaments June 29, 2005 Pharmacists Welcome Drug Trade Proposals but Want Further Dialogue The Canadian Pharmacists Association (CPhA) welcomes Health Minister Ujjal Dosanjh's statements regarding the cross border drug trade and looks forward to working on the details during the upcoming consultation process. June 29, 2005 Pharmaciens se réjouissent des propositions du commerce des médicaments mais veulent le dialogue L'Association des pharmaciens du Canada (APhC) se réjouit des déclarations du ministre de la santé, Ujjal Dosanjh, concernant le commerce transfrontière de médicaments et espère travailler sur certains détails au cours du processus de consultation imminent. April 19, 2005 La contraception d'urgence est maintenant disponible auprès des pharmaciens Le gouvernement fédéral a voté aujourd'hui une modification légale au statut de Plan B, pilule contraceptive d'urgence (PCU) à base de lévonorgestrel, afin d'en autoriser la distribution derrière le comptoir des pharmacies (programme II). Désormais, les Canadiennes pourront accéder à la contraception d'urgence par l'intermédiaire des pharmaciens sans avoir à obtenir l'ordonnance d'un médecin, comme auparavant. March 24, 2005 Les médecins et les pharmaciens s'unissent - vente transfrontalière de médicaments Les médecins et les pharmaciens s'unissent pour soutenir les mesures prises en ce qui concerne la vente transfrontalière de médicaments. Les organismes médicaux et pharmacologiques du Canada ont rencontré le ministre de la Santé, M. Ujjal Dosanjh, pour examiner les solutions possibles aux questions soulevées par l'exportation transfrontalière de médicaments sur ordonnance et les effets potentiels sur la sûreté et la disponibilité de drogues abordables pour les Canadiennes et les Canadiens. March 24, 2005 Physicians and Pharmacists Unite to Support Action on Cross-Border Sale of Drugs Canadian medical and pharmacy organizations have met with Health Minister Ujjal Dosanjh to explore solutions to the concerns raised by the cross-border exports of prescription drugs including the potential effect on the security and availability of affordable drugs for Canadians. February 24, 2005 Pharmacists Commend Health Initiatives in Budget The Canadian Pharmacists Association (CPhA) commends the federal government on reinforcing commitments made in September 2004's 10-Year Health Agreement via new funding for health priorities. February 24, 2005 La réaction des pharmaciens face aux initiatives de la santé annoncées dans le budget L'Association des pharmaciens du Canada (APhC) félicite le gouvernement du Canada d'avoir renforcé ses engagements de septembre 2004 envers l'accord de 10 ans sur la santé en annonçant un nouveau financement pour les priorités en matière de santé. January 28, 2005 Pharmacists Applaud Health Council Report The Canadian Pharmacists Association (CPhA) commends the Annual Report 2004 released by the Health Council of Canada, and its emphasis on "accelerating change" in the wake of the 2003 Health Accord and the commitment to funding in the 2004 Health Agreement. We welcome the Council's call for faster progress on health human resources, multidisciplinary primary health care teams, use of information technology, and pharmaceuticals management. January 28, 2005 Les pharmaciens approuvent le rapport du Conseil de la santé L'Association des pharmaciens du Canada (APhC) félicite le Conseil de la santé du Canada pour la publication de son Rapport annuel 2004. En effet, le document met l'accent sur une «transformation accélérée» après l'Accord 2003 des premiers ministres sur le renouvellement des soins de santé, outre le financement de l'Accord 2004. L'APhC salue la position du Conseil, qui insiste sur l'accélération des progrès en matière de ressources humaines, la création d'équipes multidisciplinaires de soins de santé primaires, le recours à l'infotechnologie et la gestion des produits pharmaceutiques. back to top 2004 November 22, 2004 Study Shows Canadian Drug Supply Chain Vulnerable A study released today by the Canadian Pharmacists Association (CPhA) reported that 80% of pharmacist respondents had experienced drug shortages in the previous week. According to the CPhA's Executive Director, Jeff Poston: "These shortages are frustrating for pharmacists who are having to spend additional administrative time to ensure patients do not experience delays or discontinuity in treatment." September 30, 2004 URGENT: ROFECOXIB (VIOXX) VOLUNTARILY WITHDRAWN FR At a September 30th news conference, Merck Inc. announced that the selective COX-2 inhibitor rofecoxib (Vioxx) is being voluntarily recalled from the world-wide market based on results of the APPROVe (Adenomatous Polyp Prevention on VIOXX) trial. September 17, 2004 Pharmacists Support Pharmaceutical Strategy Initiative The Canadian Pharmacists Association (CPhA) is pleased that the First Ministers agreement on Health Care, signed on September 15, has raised pharmaceuticals and their proper management higher on the public policy agenda than was the case with previous agreements. September 17, 2004 First Ministers' Health Plan Makes Significant Progress The First Ministers' health plan has made significant progress in securing the future of Canada's health system. Action on wait time targets, investments in health human resources, an expanded continuum of care and increased funding places the health system on a more sustainable footing. Canadians have reason to be optimistic about the future of their health system. September 17, 2004 Le plan des premiers ministres sur la santé : des progrès importants Le plan des premiers ministres sur la santé a réalisé des progrès importants en garantissant l'avenir du système de santé du Canada. Les interventions visant des objectifs reliés aux temps d'attente, les investissements dans les ressources humaines de la santé, l'expansion du continuum des soins et l'augmentation du financement placent le système de santé sur des rails plus viables. La population canadienne a raison d'être optimiste au sujet de l'avenir de son système de santé. September 15, 2004 Approche pancanadienne - conférence des premiers ministres- communiqué collectif Il serait décevant que les premiers ministres ne puissent en arriver à une entente au sujet des soins de santé. Une absence d'accord serait toutefois moins grave qu'un accord déficient. Nous exhortons les premiers ministres à unir leurs efforts pour s'entendre sur une approche pancanadienne axée sur les patients permettant de renouveler les soins de santé et d'améliorer en même temps l'imputabilité. September 15, 2004 Pan-Canadian approach to health care - Joint Statement Failure to reach a deal on health care would be disappointing however no deal is better than a bad deal. We urge First Ministers to work together and come to an agreement on a patient-focused, pan-Canadian approach to health care renewal that includes enhanced accountability. September 14, 2004 First Ministers' Meeting Media Statement As representatives of Canada's doctors, nurses, pharmacists and health system leaders, we (CMA,CNA, CPhA, CHA) are here together today to comment on the discussions thus far by First Ministers. August 4, 2004 Pharmacists Urge a More Practical Approach to Pharmacare The Canadian Pharmacists Association (CPhA) is urging a more pragmatic approach to pharmacare, following the premiers' proposal for a federally delivered national drug program. According to CPhA's Executive Director, Jeff Poston: 'A national drug plan is an attractive concept which, if implemented effectively, could improve and equalize Canadians' access to drugs. However, many key issues would first need to be addressed by the two levels of government including funding models, what and who would be covered, drug pricing and availability, and pharmacists' services. Poston continued: 'Realistically, these details might take years to iron out before an accord can be reached.' May 24, 2004 Canadian Pharmacists Association available to comment on Norton-Baker Study Canadian Pharmacists Association available to comment on Norton-Baker Study; says study shows need for increased role for pharmacists in direct patient care. May 20, 2004 Canadian Pharmacists Association available to comment on Norton-Baker Study The Canadian Pharmacists Association (CPhA) welcomes the release of the Norton-Baker study of adverse events in Canadian hospitals, which has been embargoed until Monday, May 24th at 5:00 p.m. EST, and has a number of important comments to share. The association received a technical briefing on the study Thursday, May 20th and is pleased to assist journalists in preparing their stories. Please note, all comments are embargoed until study release. March 1, 2004 New roles for pharmacists highlighted during annual campaign Pharmacists say expanding their role is critical to delivering better health care, and they'll be delivering their message in pharmacies and communities across Canada during Pharmacist Awareness Week 2004 (March 1-7). March 1, 2004 La campagne annuelle insistera sur le nouveau rôle du pharmacien Les pharmaciens affirment que l'élargissement de leur rôle est essentiel à la prestation de meilleurs soins de santé, et c'est ce message qu'ils transmettront aux pharmacies et à la collectivité canadienne en général durant la Semaine de sensibilisation à la pharmacie, qui se tiendra cette année du 1er au 7 mars. February 2, 2004 Pharmacists call for 'seamless care' solution Pharmacists call for 'seamless care' solution to tackle unacceptably high number of problems for discharged patients. A new study showing that close to one quarter of patients discharged from hospital suffer adverse events - many of them medication-related - doesn't surprise pharmacists, and renews calls from the Canadian Pharmacists Association to better integrate pharmacists in patient care. January 30, 2004 Most label claims on common herbal remedy are false, research shows. MIGRAINE SUFFERERS AT RISK People who rely on feverfew to prevent migraine headaches should use extra care in choosing which brand they use because effectiveness varies significantly from brand to brand, according to a study published this month in the Canadian Pharmaceutical Journal, the official journal of the Canadian Pharmacists Association. January 30, 2004 La plupart des affirmations sur les étiquettes d'un remède a base d'herbes médicinales sont fausses. AVIS AUX PERSONNES QUI SOUFFRENT DE MIGRAINES Des travaux de recherche montrent que la plupart des affirmations figurant sur les étiquettes d'un remède à base d'herbes médicinales courant sont fausses. Les personnes qui prennent du chrysanthème-matricaire pour prévenir les migraines devraient faire particulièrement attention quand elles choisissent une marque parce que l'efficacité varie considérablement d'une marque à l'autre, selon une étude publiée ce mois-ci dans la Revue pharmaceutique canadienne, la revue officielle de l'Association des pharmaciens du Canada. back to top 2003 December 10, 2003 Health Council signals advance in health care reform: Pharmacists The Canadian Pharmacists Association sees the establishment of the Health Council as a significant step in advancing primary care reform. The inclusion of pharmacist Bob Nakagawa as one of the government appointments to the Health Council underlines the role played by pharmacists in health care. Nakagawa is a respected hospital and academic pharmacist in British Columbia. December 10, 2003 Les pharmaciens voient le Conseil de la santé comme un signe de progrès L'Association des pharmaciens du Canada voit l'établissement du Conseil de la santé comme une étape significative dans l'avancement de la réforme des soins primaires. La nomination, par le gouvernement, du pharmacien Bob Nakagawa au sein du Conseil de la santé souligne le rôle joué par les pharmaciens dans les soins de santé. M. Nakagawa est un pharmacien hospitalier et universitaire respecté en Colombie-Britannique. December 2, 2003 Pharmacists' consulting services now considered eligible for medical expense tax credit Bernd Staeben, President of the Canadian Pharmacists Association is pleased to announce that pharmacists have been recognized as "medical practitioners" by Canada Customs and Revenue Agency. This breakthrough will allow patients to claim as a medical expense tax credit all health-related consulting services offered by their pharmacist. Pharmacist services such as medication reviews, disease management clinics/consultations and monitoring services are included. GST still applies until otherwise notified, but we're working on it. December 2, 2003 Les services de consultation des pharmaciens sont maintenant admissibles au crédit d'impôt pour frai Bernd Staeben, président de l'Association des pharmaciens du Canada, a le plaisir d'annoncer que les pharmaciens sont maintenant reconnus comme « praticiens médicaux » par l'Agence des douanes et du revenu du Canada. Ce progrès décisif permettra aux patients de demander un crédit d'impôt pour frais médicaux pour tous les services de consultation sur les questions de santé offerts par leur pharmacien. Sont visés ici les services du pharmacien tels que les révisions de médication, les cliniques ou consultations de gestion de maladie et la surveillance médicale. Sauf avis contraire, la TPS s'applique toujours, mais nous travaillons sur ce dossier. October 28, 2003 It's not the drugs but how you use them that makes the health difference The Canadian Pharmacists Association (CPhA) is telling government to use pharmacists to manage prescription drugs better to help Canadians live healthier lives. Pharmacists want to use their skills to greater advantage, taking on broader roles that will fill gaps that now exist in our health care system. The Association is making its call in a presentation on October 29th to the federal Standing Committee on Health looking at prescription drug use in Canada. October 28, 2003 Ordonnances - Message des pharmaciens au gouvernement L'Association des pharmaciens du Canada (APhC) dit au gouvernement de se servir des pharmaciens en gestion des ordonnances afin d'aider les Canadiens à vivre en meilleure santé. Les pharmaciens veulent que leurs compétences soient mieux mises à profit, ce qui se produira s'ils assument un plus grand rôle, comblant alors des lacunes existantes du système de soins de santé. L'Association fait cette demande dans une présentation du 29 octobre au Comité permanent de la santé du gouvernement fédéral, lequel étudie l'utilisation des médicaments délivrés sur ordonnance au Canada. October 20, 2003 Pharmacists say no to Health Canada on methadone treatments Canadian pharmacists are bucking a unilateral action by Health Canadas Non Insured Health Benefits Directorate (NIHB) to cut the fee paid to pharmacists involved in providing methadone treatments to persons with drug addictions. This action by NIHB will make it very difficult for patients requiring methadone to find a pharmacist who is able to provide this care under the terms of the new policy because pharmacists will be forced to withdraw from providing the service through the NIHB program. Despite discussions this past week between pharmacy groups and NIHB, it has not moved from its position. October 20, 2003 Concernant les programmes de traitements à la méthadone Les pharmaciens canadiens s'élèvent contre une mesure prise unilatéralement par le Programme des services de santé non assurés de Santé Canada (SSNA) visant à supprimer les honoraires versés aux pharmaciens qui dispensent des traitements à la méthadone aux personnes dépendantes de drogues. La mesure prise par le Programme des SSNA fera en sorte qu'il sera très difficile pour les patients ayant besoin de méthadone de trouver un pharmacien en mesure de prodiguer ce service, les pharmaciens étant dorénavant forcés de se retirer de la prestation de ce service assuré par le Programme des SSNA. Malgré les pourparlers conduits cette semaine entre les groupes de pharmaciens et le Programme des SSNA, les autorités n'ont pas modifié leur position. October 1, 2003 Pharmacists needed now more than ever in home care The September 30th deadline for governments to announce new services in home care has come and gone and the Canadian Pharmacists Association (CPhA) is concerned that there has been no apparent movement toward establishing new programs to improve home care services for Canadians. The September 30th date was agreed upon by provincial governments when they met last February to discuss implementation of health care reforms outlined in the Romanow Commission report last fall. The CPhA has been actively advocating an expanded role for pharmacists in home care to help patients who often rely to a large extent on medications. October 1, 2003 Les pharmaciens sont plus nécessaires que jamais dans les soins à domicile L'échéance du 30 septembre - date à laquelle les gouvernements étaient censés annoncer de nouveaux services dans les soins à domicile - est passée et l'Association des pharmaciens du Canada (APhC) se préoccupe du fait qu'aucun effort n'a été déployé pour établir de nouveaux programmes visant à améliorer les soins à domicile pour les Canadiens. Les gouvernements provinciaux avaient convenu de la date du 30 septembre lorsqu'ils se sont réunis en février dernier pour discuter de la mise en oeuvre des réformes des soins de santé énoncées dans le rapport de la Commission Romanow publié l'automne dernier. L'APhC préconise activement un rôle accru pour les pharmaciens dans les soins à domicile afin d'aider les patients qui se fient, en grande partie, à des médicaments pour maintenir leur santé. July 25, 2003 Les pharmaciens obtiennent un sursis pour le consentement L'APhC a rassemblé des représentants des associations provinciales de la C.-B. (BCPhA), de la Saskatchewan (RBSP), du Manitoba (MSP), de l'Ontario (OPA) et du Québec (AQPP) pour rencontrer des officiels de Santé Canada et leur faire part des sérieuses préoccupations qu'ils ont au sujet des pratiques de vérification et des politiques de consentement des SSNA. En réponse à cette initiative, la ministre de la Santé Anne McLellan a déclaré un sursis de six mois sur la mise en oeuvre du consentement et a confirmé la participation des pharmaciens à un nouveau groupe de travail sur la vérification. July 25, 2003 Pharmacists Win Delay on Consent CPhA gathered provincial association reps from B.C. (BCPhA), Saskatchewan (RBSP), Manitoba (MSP), Ontario (OPA) and Quebec (AQPP) to meet with officials from Health Canada to present serious concerns about NIHB audit practices and consent policies. As a direct result, Minister of Health Anne McLellan has instituted a six month delay on the implementation of consent and confirmed pharmacist participation in a new working group on audit. July 10, 2003 CPhA Supports Health Minister's Commitment to Health Council The Canadian Pharmacists Association (CPhA) says an independent national watch dog on health is critical to ensuring change and accountability in the provision of care. July 10, 2003 APhC appuie l'engagement du ministre de la Santé envers le Conseil de la santé L'Association des pharmaciens du Canada (APhC) dit qu'un chien de garde national et indépendant de la santé est crucial pour assurer le changement et l'imputabilité dans la prestation des soins. June 1, 2003 Pharmacists gather in Vancouver to highlight expanded role in primary health care and home care Pharmacists say expanding their role is critical to delivering better health care. That's the message they'll be delivering to Health Minister Anne McLellan at a meeting in Vancouver June 1 at the Canadian Pharmacists Association's (CPhA) 91st Annual Conference. June 1, 2003 Congrès des pharmaciens à Vancouver met en lumière le rôle élargi Les pharmaciens disent que l'élargissement de leur rôle est essentiel à la prestation de meilleurs soins de santé. Voilà le message qu'ils livreront à la ministre de la Santé, Anne McLellan, lors d'une réunion à Vancouver le 1er juin, lors du 91e congrès annuel de l'Association des pharmaciens du Canada (APhC). June 1, 2003 Health Minister calls for expanded role for pharmacists Federal Health Minister Anne McLellan today said that the pharmacist's role must be expanded, acknowledging pharmacists' key position on the front line of health care as the drug expert on the health care team. She focused on the importance of the recent First Ministers' Accord in changing the health care system, and sees pharmacists as the key agents in implementing many of its elements. See Minister's full speech. June 1, 2003 Ministre de la Santé réclame un rôle élargi pour les pharmaciens La ministre fédérale de la Santé, Anne McLellan, dit aujourd'hui que le rôle du pharmacien doit être élargi, reconnaissant ainsi la position déterminante de celui-ci en première ligne à titre d'expert en médicaments au sein de l'équipe des soins de santé. Elle insista sur l'importance du récent Accord des premiers ministres modifiant le système des soins de santé; selon elle, les pharmaciens sont des agents essentiels de la mise en oeuvre de nombreux éléments de ce nouveau système. Voir le discours entier de la ministre. May 13, 2003 Pharmacists across North America support call to address Internet drug sales Today the Canadian Pharmacists Association (CPhA) joined the American Pharmacists Association (APhA) to endorse a landmark Cross-Border Communique between the US-based National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP) and the Canadian National Association of Pharmacy Regulatory Authorities (NAPRA) on the issue of illegal cross-border importation of prescription drugs. The communique and the CPhA/APhA joint statement are available at the URLs listed below. May 13, 2003 Pharmaciens souscrivent à l'appel pour aborder la vente de médicaments par Internet Aujourd'hui l'Association des pharmaciens du Canada (APhC) s'est jointe à l'American Pharmacists Association (APhA) afin d'appuyer un communiqué historique transfrontalier publié par la National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP) des États-Unis et l'Association nationale des organismes de réglementation de la pharmacie (ANORP) du Canada. Ce communiqué porte sur l'importation transfrontalière illégale de médicaments délivrés sur ordonnance. Le communiqué et la déclaration commune de la APhC/APhA sont offerts aux adresses URL paraissant plus loin. May 13, 2003 Déclaration commune de l'APhA et L'APhC Déclaration commune de American Pharmacists Association (APhA) et de Association des pharmaciens du Canada (APhC) Pharmaciens d'Amérique du Nord souscrivent à l'appel pour aborder la vente de médicaments par Internet May 13, 2003 Joint Statement - American Pharmacists Association and Canadian Pharmacists Association Pharmacist organizations on both sides of the border are supporting calls to tighten the rules on the current practice of selling drugs from Canada over the Internet to American patients. April 24, 2003 Pharmacists call for action to help Canadians get more from their medications The Canadian Pharmacists Association today called for action on primary health care reform and, specifically, on programs that will help Canadians get the best possible results from their medication. A new report, released by the Canadian Institute for Health Information (CIHI), shows that the nation's spending on prescription and nonprescription drugs continues to increase dramatically. Canada's total drug bill in 2002 is forecast to have reached $18.1 billion, up from $15.1 billion in 2000. Prescription drugs count for more than 80 percent of that figure. April 24, 2003 Les pharmaciens pressent le gouvernement d'agir Aujourd'hui, l'Association des pharmaciens du Canada lance un appel à l'action pour accélérer la réforme des soins de santé primaires, et plus précisément les programmes qui aideront les Canadiens à obtenir les meilleurs résultats possibles de leurs médicaments. Un nouveau rapport publié par l'Institut canadien d'information sur la santé (ICIS) révèle que les dépenses en médicaments vendus sur et sans ordonnance continuent de grimper de façon dramatique au pays. On estime qu'en 2002, la facture totale de médicaments au Canada aurait atteint les 18,1 milliards $, par rapport à 15,1 milliards $ en 2001. Les médicaments vendus sur ordonnance représentent plus de 80 p. cent de ce chiffre. February 28, 2003 Pharmacists urge Canadians to talk about their medications The Canadian Pharmacists Association (CPhA) is urging Canadians to talk to their pharmacist during Pharmacist Awareness Week 2003 ( March 3-9). This year's theme is Your health * Your medicine * Your pharmacist Let's talk February 28, 2003 Les pharmacien(ne)s invitent les Canadiens à poser des questions sur leurs médicaments L'Association des pharmaciens du Canada (APhC) invite les Canadiens à communiquer avec leur pharmacien(ne) pendant la Semaine de sensibilisation aux pharmaciens 2003 qui se tiendra du 3 au 9 mars. Cette année, la semaine se déroule autour du thème : Votre santé * Vos médicaments * Votre pharmacien(ne) Parlons-en February 18, 2003 Pharmacists concerned with critical omission The Canadian Pharmacists Association says it's concerned the government has missed the mark in the federal budget's definition of pharmaceuticals management. Instead of focusing on patient care, it focuses more on streamlining Health Canada's regulatory process to get new drugs on the market more quickly. February 18, 2003 Les pharmaciens sont préoccupés par une omission grave L'Association des pharmaciens du Canada (APhC) se dit préoccupée par le fait que le gouvernement fédéral rate sa cible dans la définition qu'il donne, dans son budget, de la gestion des médicaments. Au lieu de se concentrer sur les soins à prodiguer au patient, il s'attache à la rationalisation du processus d'homologation de Santé Canada dans le but de lancer les nouveaux médicaments plus rapidement sur le marché. February 6, 2003 L'entente prévoit une amélioration de l'usage des médicaments par les Canadiens En reconnaissant que l'emploi optimal des médicaments est une priorité, l'accord sur le renouvellement des soins de santé ouvre la voie à une amélioration de l'usage des médicaments chez les Canadiens, selon l'Association des pharmaciens du Canada (APhC). February 6, 2003 Agreement sets stage to improve Canadians' drug use By recognizing optimal drug use as a priority, the First Ministers' health agreement has set the stage for Canadians to improve their health by improving the way they use medications, says the Canadian Pharmacists Association (CPhA). January 24, 2003 Scam Hits Associations A phony organization is trolling for association membership dollars and credit card numbers, says the Canadian Pharmacists Association (CPhA). It's calling itself the Pharmacists Association of Canada (http://www.caop.ca) and it is soliciting memberships via the internet and the mail. If you're a pharmacist and you've received a form entitled "2003 Enrolment Form", which sports a logo with a red maple leaf and an Rx, CPhA advises you to not respond: you are the intended victim of a scam. A related scam is also operating involving dentists and the Canadian Dental Association. January 24, 2003 Associations ciblées par des escroqueries Un organisme bidon s'intéresse à l'argent des membres et aux numéros des cartes de crédit, dit l'Association des pharmaciens du Canada (APhC). Il est désigné par Pharmacists Association of Canada (http://www.caop.ca) et tente de recruter des membres par la poste et par l'entremise d'Internet. Si vous êtes pharmacien et avez reçu un formulaire intitulé « 2003 Enrolment Form », qui affiche un logo - feuille d'érable rouge et Rx -, l'APhC vous conseille de ne pas répondre : vous êtes la victime potentielle d'une escroquerie. Des maneuvres louches semblables visant les dentistes ont également été signalées par l'Association dentaire canadienne. January 22, 2003 Les pharmaciens sont considérés comme les professionnels les plus dignes de confiance au Canada Un nouveau sondage publié aujourd'hui par Ipsos-Reid range les pharmaciens au sommet de la liste des professionnels les plus dignes de confiance au Canada, avec une cote de popularité de 91 %. January 22, 2003 Pharmacists are voted number-one most trusted professional in Canada A new poll released today by Ipsos-Reid places pharmacists number one (91%) on the list of professionals most trusted by Canadians. back to top 2002 November 28, 2002 Canadian pharmacists ready for expanded role in medication management outlined in Romanow report The Romanow Commission's emphasis on prescription drugs and medication management are a signal for Canadian pharmacists to roll up their sleeves and live up to their potential to play an expanded role in primary health care. We're ready says the Canadian Pharmacists Association. For further information, please see Immediate Highlights for Pharmacists . October 25, 2002 Kirby hits and misses with pharmacists The Canadian Pharmacists Association (CPhA) praises Kirby Committee proposals to create primary health care teams and launch an independent review of health practitioner scopes of practice, but pans further devolution of responsibility for prescription drug spending to Regional Health Authorities (RHAs). September 5, 2002 Pharmacists Dramatically Improve Asthma Outcomes A landmark Canadian study showing how pharmacists improve outcomes for asthma patients was profiled this week at an international gathering of pharmacists in Nice, France. The B.C. Community Pharmacy Asthma Study, lead by Dr. Bill McLean of the Ottawa Hospital, looks at how pharmacists providing increased care, education and support significantly improved health outcomes for patients with asthma. August 22, 2002 Pharmacists support call for clinical trials for medicinal marijuana The Canadian Pharmacists Association supports the federal Health Minister's emphasis on the need for further research regarding the safety and efficacy of medical marijuana. At the same time, CPhA encourages a proactive process to gather together the necessary information that will allow informed decision making so that patients who might benefit from its use will have access to it in a timely manner. May 27, 2002 Study underlines benefits of expanded role for pharmacists A Study of Cardiovascular Risk Intervention by Pharmacists (SCRIP) released in Edmonton today demonstrates how pharmacists' intervention dramatically improves health outcomes. It proves that an expanded role for pharmacists is a much needed improvement to the health care system in Canada and could have major implications for health care across the country. May 9, 2002 Pharmacists tell Romanow Canada needs them in an expanded role Pharmacists say expanding their role is critical to delivering better health care. This will be the focus of their discussions with Roy Romanow, head of the Commission on the Future of Health Care in Canada, at a meeting in Winnipeg May 13th at the Canadian Pharmacists Association's (CPhA) 90th Annual Conference (May 12-14). April 26, 2002 CIHI findings confirm need for expanded role for pharmacists Recent statistics show that spending on drugs in Canada is second only to spending on hospital services. This proves the need for an expanded role for pharmacists to ensure the best possible outcomes from drug therapy, says the Canadian Pharmacists Association (CPhA). April 18, 2002 Pharmacists tell Kirby: 'don't forget about drug therapy' The Canadian Pharmacists Association (CPhA) today said the newly released Volume 5 of The Health of Canadians - The Federal Role (report of the Standing Senate Committee on Social Affairs, Science and Technology) focuses too much on physicians and hospitals and does not go far enough in recognizing the role of pharmacists in providing much needed improvement to drug therapy for Canadians. The report contains recommendations and principles for reforming Canada's publicly funded health care system, and precedes volume six, which will set forth recommendations based on the Committee's work. March 2, 2002 Pharmacists promote expanded role during national awareness week The Canadian Pharmacists Association (CPhA) is launching a new television documentary and national newspaper insert to profile the benefits of expanding the pharmacist's role in health care. "Today's Pharmacist" appears in the National Post's March 2nd edition, and Pharmacists: The New Wave begins broadcasting later next week, Pharmacist Awareness Week (March 4-10). January 14, 2002 National Pharmacy Association Urges Caution on Mazankowski Report The Canadian Pharmacists Association (CPhA) is urging caution on a number of ideas put forward by the Premier's Advisory Council report. Recognizing the need to find ways to cope with increased costs within the health care system, CPhA is concerned by the Advisory Council's suggestion of Medical Savings Accounts or Variable Premiums Accounts. back to top 2001 November 5, 2001 Pharmacists Tell Romanow: Let us fill the gaps in health care Pharmacists are ready and able to take on new roles in health care that will fill in huge gaps between the needs of patients and what they are currently getting from the health care system, according to the Canadian Pharmacists Association (CPhA). In its new submission to the Commission on the Future of Health Care in Canada, CPhA offers solutions that pharmacists are prepared to undertake. October 30, 2001 Pharmacists Outline New Role In Primary Health Care The Canadian Pharmacists Association (CPhA) today outlined the urgent need for a redefined and expanded role for pharmacists that would bring about better health care for Canadians. Presenting to the Standing Senate Committee on Social Affairs, Science and Technology in response to Volume Four: Issues and Options Report, association president Ron Elliott identified a number of solutions to existing barriers in the system that prevent delivery of the most effective and efficient health care. October 10, 2001 Pharmacists Urge Canadians Not to Stockpile Medications In the wake of last month's terrorist attacks in the United States and growing fears of bioterrorist attacks, the Canadian Pharmacists Association is calling for calm and urging patients not to stockpile their medications. September 25, 2001 Pharmacists caution health ministers on plans to buy drugs in bulk The Canadian Pharmacists Association is concerned about the provincial health ministers' plan to buy drugs in bulk as a means of cutting health-care costs, saying it may not always work in the best interests of patients. The idea was put forth at the Health Ministers' annual meeting in St. John's, Nfld. September 24, 2001 Kirby Report The Canadian Pharmacists Association is taking issue with the recently released report of the Senate Committee for Social Affairs, Science and Technology for "falling far short in giving recognition to the potential contribution to health care by pharmacists," says Dr. Jeff Poston, CPhA Executive Director. "We will be taking this up with Senator Kirby." May 22, 2001 Pharmacists' Conference Highlights Hot Issues in Health Join us May 27-29 for the Canadian Pharmacists Association's 89th Annual Conference in Halifax, Nova Scotia where pharmacists from across Canada will be discussing hot issues related to health care. April 12, 2001 Pharmacists Respond to Fyke Report: Ready to Expand Role "The Fyke Commission report has hit the nail on the head by calling for the establishment of ïprimary health service teams' where pharmacists work alongside doctors and other health care professionals in 24-hour-a-day, seven-day-a-week clinics," says Garry King, President of the Canadian Pharmacists Association (CPhA). March 14, 2001 Pharmacists Call for Action on Drug Benefits Canada's pharmacists are calling on the federal government to act on its long overdue promise for a national, universal Pharmacare program in the wake of a study that shows one in five Canadians has inadequate or no drug insurance. The study was commissioned by the federal government and reported in Wednesday's Globe and Mail. March 5, 2001 Québec Drug Plan Dispute Highlights Looming National Crisis The recent dispute between pharmacists and the government of Québec highlights a growing crisis in the delivery of the best possible drug therapy to Canadians, according to the Canadian Pharmacists Association (CPhA). Recently, pharmacists in that province warned that they would pull out of the provincial drug plan. The provincial government then introduced special legislation to make it illegal for them to do so. February 28, 2001 Pharmacists Tell Their Story Canada's 23,000 pharmacists are gearing up to show how they contribute to better health for Canadians during Pharmacy Awareness Week (March 5-11). The theme of this year's campaign is Pharmacists Care, No Matter Where. It illustrates the importance of all the services pharmacists provide in all practice settings, community pharmacy, hospital, nursing home, research facilities, industry and government. back to top 2000 December 22, 2000 Pharmacists and Insurers Meet to Solve Drug Plan Problems Pharmacists and the insurance industry are joining efforts to solve problems with third party drug plans. Stakeholders from all sides of the issue met this month for two days to identify mutual concerns, propose possible solutions and devise an action plan. November 21, 2000 To the Editor:Article by Lynda Ashley (Chronic pain is my middle name, Nov. 21) The article by Lynda Ashley (Chronic pain is my middle name, Nov. 21) illustrates a number of important points about getting the best possible care from your pharmacist. It is of utmost importance to seek out a pharmacist that gives you the care you need. In other words, choose your pharmacist carefully; it's as important as choosing a good doctor. Develop a long-term relationship so that he or she is aware of your condition(s) and all the medications you are taking (including vitamins and herbal products). November 17, 2000 Pharmacists Call for a Leader's Debate on Health Care Pharmacists are calling on national party leaders to agree to another debate about the future of health care in the final lead up to election day. "We have just over a week, and the only thing Canadians know for sure about health care is that it's facing a real crisis. November 9, 2000 Don't Buy Cold Medicine Without a Pharmacist's Opinion Pharmacists have removed products containing phenylpropanolamine (PPA) from their shelves, but are concerned that the product is still available at other retail outlets, such as service stations, grocery and convenience stores."People should not buy cough and cold medications without having access to a pharmacist," says Ron Elliott. October 27, 2000 Women's Health and Accessibility Hot National Issues British Columbia's decision to allow pharmacists to prescribe emergency contraception has tossed a very hot item into the national election debate. "Women in British Columbia now have better access to emergency contraception than other Canadian women," says Jeff Poston, Executive Director of the Canadian Pharmacists Association (CPhA). "This raises fundamental questions about the way the country is to respond." October 24, 2000 Auditor General Report Media Reply Letter to the Editor: On behalf of Canada's 23,000 pharmacists, particularly those whose patients are First Nations people, I wish to correct severely misleading coverage of the Auditor General's recent report which addressed in part the use - or misuse - of prescription drugs by native Canadians. October 6, 2000 Pharmacists Gear Up to Fight Flu Canada's pharmacists are mounting a national effort to promote flu shots to all Canadians, in time for the 2000-2001 flu season. Pharmacists are encouraging all Canadians to consider getting a shot, including those at high risk for influenza-related complications, people in contact with those at high risk, and those who provide essential community services. April 17, 2000 New Groundbreaking Herbal Book Separates Myth from Reality Growing consumer interest in alternative therapies has led to inaccurate perceptions that herbal products are natural and therefore safe. To separate the myths from reality, a ground-breaking evidence-based book Herbs: Everyday Reference for Health Professionals has been published by CPhA and the Canadian Medical Association to help health professionals provide consumers with reliable and credible information on herbals. March 7, 2000 Illegitimate Internet Pharmacies Could Pose Risks for Consumers The rapid growth of on-line pharmacies is causing increased concern that the existing public protection safety net could be bypassed by illegitimate operators or unaccredited pharmacies. This could expose the public to harmful or ineffective drugs, improper prescribing or dispensing of pharmaceuticals, said the Canadian Pharmacists Association today in releasing its statement on Internet Pharmacy in Canada. March 6, 2000 Pharmacists Team with Heart and Stroke Foundation to Promote Safe Use of Health Information on the Internet During Pharmacy Awareness Week 2000 (March 6-12) pharmacists are reminding Canadians to talk with their pharmacist or other health care professional before they use health information they find on the Internet. They have developed a new leaflet that focuses on the Internet, and includes a list of general rules and questions to ask yourself before acting on health information found online. February 29, 2000 Short Term Relief But No Long-Term Vision The Canadian Pharmacists Association in response to the federal budget, announced it was pleased the government has made good on its commitment to health. CPhA is however disappointed that with a year left before an election, the federal government has no formal commitment for a national pharmacare program to ensure that the needs of our aging population are met. February 21, 2000 Urgent Need for Pharmacists Members of key national pharmacy associations met this week at a meeting facilitated by the Canadian Pharmacists Association, to review the current pharmacists shortage in Canada and to discuss steps required to address the situation. According to the group, there are many factors affecting the shortage of pharmacists in Canada, making it an urgent and complex issue. back to top 1999 November 30, 1999 CPhA Calls for Harmonization of Health Privacy Protection Dr. Jeff Poston, CPhA's Executive Director appears before the Senate Committee on Social Affairs and calls for an amendment to Bill C-6: Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act. The Bill's consent requirements have the potential to increase pharmacists' workloads as patients on private and public plans will be treated differently. This will create a financial burden on pharmacists. November 30, 1999 CPhA Questions Liberal Commitment to Pharmacare Dr. Jeff Poston appears before the Parliamentary Standing Committee of Finance to challenge the Liberal Government's Red Book commitment to a national pharmacare program and to put on the table, pharmacy's solution and funding options for a sustainable program that gives Canadians access to the medications they need. May 16, 1999 CPhA Bridges Drug Information Gap The Canadian Pharmacists Association launches a new online drug table that promises to keep pharmacists and health care professionals informed about the latest drugs approved for use in Canada. As an added bonus, a list of discontinued products in Canada has been included. May 7, 1999 Pharmacists Tackle Drug Use in Older Adults Strategies to deal with the impact of medication use by an aging population and the changing landscape of pharmacy in the new millennium will be a key focus of the 87th Annual Canadian Pharmacists Association (CPhA) conference. March 4, 1999 Pharmacists Team with Seniors to Promote Medication Compliance Pharmacists are demonstrating how they help older adults identify and resolve medication related problems during their annual Pharmacy Awareness Week (March 1-7). By inviting two prominent Canadians to go through a medication use assessment geared towards older adults, pharmacists are showing Canadians the important role they play in their patients' health. back to top 1998 July 29, 1998 CPhA Responds to Comments Made by the Assembly of First Nations CPhA sends a letter to Phil Fontaine, National Chief of the Assembly of First Nations after misleading comments made by an Assembly spokesperson about the problems associated with the Non Insured Health Benefits Program. June 15, 1998 Coordination of Drug Plans Impacting Pharmacists and Patients Recent changes in drug benefit plans have resulted in significant increases in administrative workloads for pharmacists. The estimated annual economic burden of explaining cost-sharing issues to patients and dealing with drug plan changes is over $28,000 per pharmacy. May 14, 1998 Herbal Report Comes Up Short Proposals for the regulation of natural health products are a step in the right direction, but these products should not fall under a new category to be established under the Food and Drugs Act, said CPhA today in response to the Final Report of the Advisory Panel on Natural Health Products April 17, 1998 The Best Just Got Better! Following hard on the heels of its first edition, CPhA launches an expanded and updated second edition of Therapeutic Choices. The authoritative source of information on options in therapy is the latest addition to the extensive list of drug and health information resources from CPhA. March 19, 1998 CPhA Delivers Pharmacy's Message to Federal Health Minister The federal government needs to make better use of pharmacists and take advantage of their expertise in drug utilization and health education, according to representative of the CPhA Board, who met with the Honourable Allan Rock, Minister of Health. March 16, 1998 CPhA Addresses Community Pharmacy Preparedness for Year 2000 As one of the most computer-literate health care professions, pharmacists depend on computers daily to document patient profiles and process claims with a variety of public and private claims adjudicators. February 9, 1998 Herbal Remedies Should Be Treated as Drugs Herbal and Homeopathic products should be considered an integral part of the Drugs Section of the Food and Drugs Act and treated as self-medication products, stressed CPhA in its presentation to the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Health. back to top For more information, please contact: mediarequests@pharmacists.ca Tel: (613) 523-7877 or 800-917-9489 Ext. 219 Fax: (613) 523-0445