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PRP INSIGHTS: Common Non-Compliance for Prescription Adaptation

On August 1st, 2024, Professional Practice Policy -58 (PPP-58) was amended to give pharmacists a broader scope for adapting and renewing prescriptions.

This article explores some common areas of non-compliance noted by Compliance Officers when reviewing prescription adaptation services during pharmacy reviews.

PRP INSIGHTS: Expectations of Care Poster Display Requirements

Effective September 1st, 2024, bylaws are in effect that require pharmacies display the 'What You Can Expect from Your Pharmacy Visit' poster in its original, unmodified form. This poster was designed to enhance transparency and trust by clearly communicating the standards of care that the public can expect from their pharmacy team.

Nov 22, 2024

PRP INSIGHTS: Areas of Non-Compliance for Pharmacist Prescribing for Minor Ailments and Contraception (PPMAC) Part 2

Pharmacists in BC have been providing minor ailment and contraception prescribing services under PPMAC since June 2023. To ensure compliance with the regulatory standards that enable and govern this practice, Compliance Officers have been reviewing PPMAC services while conducting Community Pharmacy Practice Reviews since October 2023.

To improve compliance and awareness of the standards, a previous article was published that highlighted some early observations of non-compliance under the PPMAC framework. This article is a follow-up installment to share additional examples of non-compliance that have been observed by Compliance Officers.

Oct 24, 2024

Guest Post: Cefuroxime is a Safe Alternative for Penicillin Allergic Patients

In light of the increasing concern over antibiotic misuse, particularly the overprescription of clindamycin in dentistry, the BC Centre for Disease Control (BCCDC) and the UBC Therapeutics Initiative (TI) have collaborated to provide dentists with prescribing Portraits aimed at improving antibiotic use. Pharmacists and pharmacy technicians play an important role in determining the safety of alternative antibiotics and communicating with patients. Luckily, safe alternatives to clindamycin exist for patients with true penicillin allergies, including the beta-lactam antibiotic cefuroxime.

Aug 28, 2024

Articles

Seeking BC Pharmacists' Feedback: Proposed New UBC Interprofessional Online Graduate Certificate Program

To enhance pharmacists’ preparedness for decision-making roles in the healthcare sector, UBC's Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences is developing a new interprofessional, online graduate certificate program in collaboration with the UBC Faculty of Medicine’s School of Population and Public Health and the School of Nursing. We are seeking your feedback to assist us in its development.

The College of Pharmacists of BC Supports the 2SLGBTQ+ Community

While Pride Season - typically reserved for large community celebrations and awareness events – is going to look a little different this year, the vibrancy and strength of 2SLGBTQ+ communities across BC continues to shine.

Updates to Drug Administration Re-Certification During the COVID-19 Pandemic

At the start of the pandemic, many first aid and CPR providers extended the expiry date of some of their certifications, based on their own criteria, as in-person first aid and CPR courses were not available.

However, as we continue to progress through the different phases of the provincial restart plan, some providers continue to offer extensions, while some are offering training sessions which may involve both online and in-class components.

Health care professionals encouraged to contribute to investigation into Indigenous-specific racism

Mary Ellen Turpel-Lafond provided details about her investigation into Indigenous-specific racism in BC’s health care system at a news conference on July 9.

Guest Post: New 24/7 Addiction Medicine Support Line for Pharmacists

A new 24/7 support line for clinicians and pharmacists is now available, offering live, in-the-moment addiction medicine support while they are meeting with patients across British Columbia.

Regulated health professionals have a duty to report racist behaviour in the health care system

BC Health Regulators (BCHR) members are united in declaring that any racist behaviour among regulated health professionals is unprofessional, harmful to patients, and unacceptable. It contravenes the professional conduct standards to which health professionals are held and constitutes a danger to the public.

National Indigenous Peoples Day

Sunday, June 21st marks the 24th annual National Indigenous Peoples Day in Canada. On this day, and throughout the month of June, BC’s health professionals are asked to take some time to both celebrate and reflect on the culture, heritage and contributions of Canada’s First Nations, Inuit and Metis Communities.

Registrar's Message: Black Lives Matter

The College of Pharmacists of British Columbia stands against racism in solidarity with the Black Community.

The past few weeks have forced us all to take a hard look at ourselves, our workplaces, our organizations, and our society. Prompting us to recognize the internal prejudices that we may not realize we hold. To ask ourselves how we may unknowingly be contributing to the systemic racism present in North America. And to acknowledge that we all have a responsibility to stand against the everyday transgressions faced by Black People.

What Went Wrong - Injection Authority

Stay Informed Regarding Legislative Requirements!

As registrants are aware, pharmacists in BC expanded their scope of practice to include the Administration of Drugs by Injection in 2009. Pharmacists may administer drugs by injection or intranasal route in accordance with Section 4.1(1)(c) of the Health Professions Act and Section 43(1) of the Bylaws to the Health Professions Act.

Sublocade: Information for Pharmacists

Given the unique dispensing pathway necessary for Sublocade, prescribers and pharmacists should create a plan in advance for each prescription.

Mental Health and Well-Being During COVID-19

May 4 – 10 is Mental Health Week!

With so much going on, it’s important to pay attention to your mental health and take the necessary steps to ensure your well-being.