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CHANGE OF LOCATION (“RELOCATION”) – A PHARMACY CANNOT OPERATE AT THE NEW LOCATION UNTIL LICENSED
A change of location occurs when a pharmacy moves to a different address. The process of moving a pharmacy to a new location is similar to that of opening a new pharmacy.
It has come to our attention that in the recent past, there have been a number of instances where relocated pharmacies have begun operating in their new location prior to completing the application process and receiving their new pharmacy licence. The College would like to remind registrants that this constitutes the operation of an unlawful pharmacy, and may result in referral to the Inquiry Committee.
Change of Location Application
The application process for a Change of Location Application for a pharmacy is the same as it is for a new pharmacy licence (except that ownership information is not required unless there has been a change to the ownership of the pharmacy).
Important Things to Note about the Change of Location Application Process
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Processing Times
In addition to ensuring a Change of Location Application is submitted, a pharmacy must also ensure that they take into account the College’s processing times when planning the opening date for their new pharmacy.
| CPBC Processing Times | |
|---|---|
| Change of Location Application Form | 7 days plus additional time as needed to obtain missing information and/or clarification |
| Pre-Opening Requirements | 14 days plus additional time as needed to obtain missing information and/or clarification |
Submitting a change of location application or pre-opening requirements without accounting for the processing times shown above may result in a delay to the licensing of the new location. Additionally, if information is missing or further clarification is required, this may lead to additional processing time, resulting in further delays.
The pre-opening process usually requires some back-and-forth communication between the College and the applicant before all requirements are met. In situations where the proposed opening date is not achievable, pharmacies will need to change the opening date of the new location and continue to operate out of the old location.
Tips for The Pre-Opening Process
The following suggestions will help avoid delays in the licensing of the new location:
- Read the letter that is sent when the initial application requirements are met (i.e., after submission of the application form and diagram). This letter outlines the steps and requirements for the pre-opening phase of the application.
- Refer to Appendix B of the Pharmacy Licensure Guide when completing the Pre-Opening Inspection report and providing digital evidence.
- Submit the pre-opening requirements as soon as possible to allow time for the College to review and ask for clarification if required. This ensures that the proposed opening date of the new location is met. The College suggests submitting this information 30 days before the opening date.
AFTER YOUR NEW PHARMACY LICENCE HAS BEEN ISSUED
Once you have received your new pharmacy licence, you may operate the pharmacy from the new location. Section 3 of the application form must then be submitted within 14 days of closure of the old location in order to confirm all items have been transferred from the old location to the new location.
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It is important to remember that if a pharmacy changes their location before a new licence is issued, the pharmacy will be operating unlawfully. The pharmacy manager and direct/indirect owners involved in the operation of an unlawful pharmacy may be referred to the Inquiry Committee. |
You can learn more about the Change of Location application in the Pharmacy Licensure Guide, or on the College website.
If you need assistance with the Change of Location application, please contact the Licensure Department at [email protected].