The College of Pharmacists of British Columbia (College) takes the use of inappropriate prescription incentives very seriously and is committed to working with all levels of government and public safety authorities to put an end to it.
“The use of incentives to prey on patients, especially the most vulnerable members of our community, in order to maximize pharmacy profits goes against what pharmacy professionals are educated and expected to do – care for their patients’ needs first and foremost and assist them in achieving their best possible health outcomes,” said Suzanne Solven, College Registrar and CEO. “Prescription incentives have been banned by the College since 2013, despite strong legal challenges by the pharmacy industry. We continue working to identify those responsible for their continued use and to stop these inappropriate and unethical pharmacy business practices."
The College understands and appreciates the urgency the public and the medical community feels about this matter and shares the feeling of outrage toward those responsible.
Like all authorities charged with protecting the public interest and ensuring that those who participate in unlawful conduct are held accountable, the College must also ensure that any investigation is based on evidence, carefully planned, and conducted to ensure outcomes that are both legally defensible and in the public interest.
The College continues to encourage any member of the public or health care community to inform us of activities that could compromise the health and safety of the public.
“We appreciate those who have come forward to share their concerns and stories and wish to assure the community that although we cannot share specifics for obvious reasons, we are doing everything we can to ensure that all pharmacists conduct themselves according to the College’s bylaws and Code of Ethics,” stated Ms. Solven.
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About the College of Pharmacists of British Columbia
Founded in 1891, the College is a vital link in the chain of trust between patients, pharmacists and pharmacy technicians.
The College’s mandate is to protect the health and safety of the public by licensing and regulating pharmacists and pharmacy technicians and the pharmacies where they practice. We are responsible for making sure every pharmacist and pharmacy technician in BC is fully qualified and able to provide the public with safe and ethical pharmacy care.
The College receives its authority from - and is responsible for administering - provincial pharmacy legislation.
Media contact:
Colin Wong
Director of Communications and Engagement
College of Pharmacists of BC
Tel: 604.733.2440 or 800.663.1940
[email protected]