By Shaun Penner

Pharmacist screening

Pharmacists to assess for COVID-19, encouraged to manage drug supply

Mar 19, 2020 | 1:50 PM

Pharmacists across Alberta will now be able to offer screening and provide consultation on COVID-19 to their clients.

A new billing code has been created by the United Conservative government to find alternative ways for citizens to get answers and advice on the virus.

“We need to maximize the capabilities of our health professionals at this time. Pharmacists have knowledge and experience in infectious diseases such as influenza and in helping Albertans with their questions and concerns,” said Health Minister Tyler Shandro, in a release. “This measure acknowledges pharmacists’ role in the health system and in supporting patients.”

For now, pharmacists will be allowed to screen patients for symptoms and provide information. The role of pharmacists could possibly be expanded in the future, such as being able to provide direct referrals for testing of COVID-19 or supporting Health Link 811.

All decisions moving forward will be made in collaboration between Alberta Health and the Alberta Pharmacists’ Association.

Meaningful Mementos

Remembering Someone You've Lost at Christmas

Dec 03, 2024

Seasonal Sorrow

How Do You Get Through The Holidays When You're Grieving?

Nov 01, 2024

Upcoming Events at Oliver's

Grief & Loss and Estate Planning Seminars

Oct 02, 2024

“We commend the quick action and responsiveness of Alberta Health to establish a compensation structure to support the care that Alberta’s community pharmacists are providing during the COVID-19 pandemic,” said CEO of the Alberta Pharmacists’ Association Margaret Wing, in the same release. “Pharmacists play an essential role in the management, assessment, and screening of patient health indicators and helping patients understand their COVID-19 risk is an important support for Albertans.”

Additionally, due to global shortages of prescription medication, the provincial government is recommending that pharmacies supply patients with a maximum 30-day supply.

“To ensure Albertans can access the medications they need, the Alberta College of Pharmacy supports measures that will reduce the likelihood of drug shortages by limiting prescription quantities to 30 days. This will assist in stabilizing our drug supply,” said Greg Eberhart, the Registrar of the Alberta College of Pharmacy.

The province also says that government-sponsored coverage for seniors and non-group coverage programs will pay a lower co-payment of up to $8 per prescription for a 30-day supply. Anyone with other coverage should consult with their benefits provider.