The HPA Bylaws Schedule F Part 8 – Making a Diagnosis and Prescribing Standards, Limits and Conditions do not limit pharmacists to making diagnoses or prescribing for minor ailments or contraception in person.
A pharmacist may make a diagnosis and prescribe for a patient over the phone or through a virtual platform if the pharmacist is able to perform a patient assessment that is appropriate for the condition being treated and conducted in a manner that the patient confirms is suitably private for them. The pharmacist is responsible for ensuring that the patient’s identification is appropriately verified before providing any pharmacy service that requires accessing, collecting, using, or disclosing personal health information.
As always, when making a diagnosis or prescribing for a patient over the phone or through a virtual platform, pharmacists must continue to act in accordance with the:
- HPA Bylaws Schedule F Part 8 – Making a Diagnosis and Prescribing Standards, Limits and Conditions;
- Conflict of Interest Standards;
- Code of Ethics; and
- Other relevant legislation, bylaws, and policies.
Note: The Ministry of Health may maintain its own requirements regarding the provision of PPMAC services to PharmaCare eligible patients. Review of the Ministry of Health’s Pharmacare Policy Guide is recommended.