Pricing Impacts Survey • BCPhA Board Nominees • Clark vs. Dix: BC’s 2013 Election
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THE TABLET
APR/MAY
2013
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VOLUME 22. NO. 2
contents Editor-in-Chief Kathie Taylor 604.269.2863, kathie.taylor@bcpharmacy.ca
1 6 o n t h e c ov e r
Senior Editor Elise Riedlinger 604.269.2866, elise.riedlinger@bcpharmacy.ca Advertising Sales Heather Sell, OnTrack Media 604.639.7763, tablet@ontrackco.com The Tablet is published by the BCPhA. Views expressed herein KV UV[ ULJLZZHYPS` YLĂ…LJ[ [OVZL VM [OL (ZZVJPH[PVU *VU[YPI\[LK material is not guaranteed space and may be edited for brevity, clarity and content.
14 Standing Work
)*7O( VMĂ„JLZ! #1530-1200 West 73rd Avenue Vancouver, BC V6P 6G5 [LSLWOVUL! VY [VSS MYLL PU IJ! MH_! [VSS MYLL MH_! L THPS! PUMV'IJWOHYTHJ` JH ^LI! ^^^ IJWOHYTHJ` JH 7OHYTHZZPZ[! 1.800.667.2190 -VY JVUĂ„KLU[PHS JV\UZLSSPUN YLMLYYHS MVY LTWSV`TLU[ VY HKKPJ[PVU related assistance
18 Pricinng Imppacts Survey
Publication agreement #40810576
Features
Columns
Regulars
12
2013 Election Clark vs. Dix: What will the battle for BC mean for pharmacy?
5
President’s Message Life after April 1
10
DPIC Naicin: The facts on ushing
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Standing Work Is your workstation working for you?
CEO’s Message Increasing pharmacists’ role in health care
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14
Financial Trends Do you need professional help with your long-term strategy?
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Cover Article: BCPhA Annual Conference 2013 Preview
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Professional Services If it isn’t documented, it didn’t happen
25
Clinicare Pharmacists Chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder
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BCPhA Member Survey Pricing Impacts Survey
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29
Career Listings Find a job in pharmacy
20
Member Services Understanding your employment agreement
Board Elections BCPhA Board of Directors nominees
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Medication Reconciliation An opportunity to improve patient safety Got a suggestion for an article in The Tablet? Email info@bcpharmacy.ca with your story ideas.
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Apr/May 2013
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SMALL TALK
In the news BCPhA hosts Speaker Series at UBC On February 6, more than 150 students attended the BCPhA Speaker Series session, “Community Pharmacy - Looking Ahead,” at the University of British Columbia. The panel discussion featured Parkash Ragsdale, BCPhA deputy CEO and director, professional services; Suzanne Taylor, executive director, drug use optimization, pharmaceutical services division, BC Ministry of Health; and Aaron Sihota, president of the Pharmacy Undergraduate Society. Students had the opportunity to ask questions about the future of the profession, expanded scope of practice, and the proposed entry-to-practice Pharm. D. program at UBC.
College of Pharmacists proposes new fee structure The College of Pharmacists of BC (CPBC) recently proposed a new fee structure including the elimination of the student registration fee; reducing the annual registration fee for all pharmacists to $530; a slight increase in the annual pharmacy licence fee to $1331 (this new flat rate for
all pharmacy licensure services allows for the elimination of 11 separate other smaller fees); and all other fees frozen. The above is only a proposal until it is passed as a formal change to the fee schedule by the CPBC Board and filed with the Ministry of Health for incorporation into legislation. (Please note that BCPhA reduced General membership fees over the last three years from $490 to the current level of $400, and has always provided Student membership at no cost.)
included in the final set of bylaw revisions. The CPBC Board has also decided not to proceed with its proposal to change the scope of practice for pharmacy technicians.
In addition, a revised set of bylaws have been approved by the CPBC Board and will be sent to government for final approval. The proposal to ban loyalty points, or inducements, was not
Welcome to the newest members of the BCPhA! General: Lina Abbas, Nawal Alhafnawy, Ahmed Amin, Shalin Amin, Ali Asghar, Olufemi Bakare, Navjot Bal, Nithesha Bambila, Bruce Beley, Curtis Calanchie, Nicolas Chau, Lee Chen, Paul Cheng, Elaine Cooke, Salim Datu, Amy Deng, Rubena Deubry, Barbara Dixson, Tyler Drapeau, Cassandra Elstak-Blackwell, Brett Federko, Gopala Gaddam, Praminder Gill, Ivan Glivenko, Tiffany Gore, Ahmed Hag, Roxana Ho, Parisa Hosseini, Jasdeep Jawanda, Marilyn Keevil, Nathan Klaassen, Ryan Kullar, Leanne Larsen, Vivian Leung, Kevin Liew, Jenny Lum, John Macready, Ankur Midha, Sousan Moamar-Najmeh, Shahzil Mohamed, Lindsey Moncey, Amanda Nakagawa, Fu Ng, Amrit Nijjer, Cherry Imee Parado, Sarah Parker, Ashish Patel, Pradeep Kumar Ramachandran Kabali, Stephen Rivington, Alan Samuelson, Jeanette Santiago, Boyoung Shin, Pooja Singh, Geoffrey Soo Chan, Prabhjot Sran, Susanna Swart, Danielle Tuttle, Daiwei Wang, Li Wei, Mira Yoo, Lindsay Zakkour, Amleset Zerai Corporate: Shoppers Simply Pharmacy #3076, Peoples Drug Mart #334, Pharmasave #298, Shoppers Drug Mart #2156, Shoppers Simply Pharmacy #3078, Shoppers Drug Mart #2267, Pharmasave #81
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RALPH LAI
|
PRESIDENT
Life after April 1
As this issue of The Tablet arrives in your hands, our members are coming to grips with the impacts of drug price reductions including the drop in generic drug pricing to 25 per cent of brand as a result of Bill 35, and the top six generic drugs dropping to 18 per cent. How does government expect us to carry a generic drug inventory of $35 cost to the $100 cost of brand, and overnight have that inventory cost drop by 49 per cent to $18 with no washout period? This 49 per cent shrink is hitting pharmacies’ bottom lines and for some businesses can easily mean thousands of dollars. Did the regulators and government decision-makers contemplate the whole picture or do they even care? I believe these reductions will significantly change the way we do business, and how we provide patient care. From a business perspective, when there is a major reduction in revenues, operating costs must also be reduced to keep the business viable. At least some of the cuts will undoubtedly be in hours of operation and labour. We have already seen many wellpaying jobs of all levels in pharmacy being cut, and many more will go in the future. We’re also hearing that starting wages are beginning to decrease. What about the lost opportunities – the jobs that aren’t created – in the long-term as a result of the price reductions? This destabilizing of the pharmacy infrastructure will ultimately affect not only our members, but the health care system as a whole, and our patients in particular.
Currently, most pharmacies and pharmacists are absorbing the impact and continuing to provide exceptional patient care. However, once the cuts in pharmacies are fully felt, there will not be a sufficient number of pharmacists on staff at any one time, leading to longer waits for patients and perhaps drug shortages as pharmacies use ‘just-in-time inventory’ methods. (I wonder if we have to get to the emergency room model for our pharmacy practice before the government – and third party providers, for that matter – reevaluate their current strategies.) It is time for the costs of the patient care pharmacists provide (including injections, medication reviews, etc.) to come out of the provincial health care budget for patient care, and not the budget for prescription medications. That would be an important step in ensuring that the contributions pharmacists are making in reducing costs in other parts of BC’s health care system, and the benefits to patients, are properly attributed to our profession. In the CEO’s Message, you will read about seven clinical services proposals the BCPhA has created that will lead to savings in the health care system, with pharmacists as a key part of the primary care team. As we continue to promote these proposals to government, MLAs, and key stakeholders, it is more important than ever to be a strong, united voice in changing the health care system for the better and proving that innovation is the only way forward in an era of reduced health care spending.
Board of Directors Ralph Lai, Langley (President) 604.881.3882, ralph_lai@owfg.com
Derek Desrosiers, Richmond 604.657.8144, d.desrosiers17@gmail.com
Allison Nourse, Vancouver 604.276.5280, allisonn@unipharm.com
Don Cocar, Kelowna (Vice President) 250.808.1308, don@dycksrx.ca
Julie Ford, Kamloops 250.318.1371, julieford@shaw.ca
David Pavan, Vancouver 604.301.2620, david.pavan@gmail.com
Shakeel Bhatti, Langley 604.534.6605, shakeelbhatti@shaw.ca
Caren Heughan, Victoria 250.388.5181, carenheughan@gmail.com
Greg Shepherd, Vancouver 604.317.9608, gshepherd@pharmasavebc.ca
Bill Bright, Calgary 403.663.8793, b.bright@telus.net
Victor Ikari, Ashcroft 250.453.2553, pdm72@pdmstores.com
Nadeem Zia, Surrey 604.585.5666, nadeem.family.pharmacist@gmail.com
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Apr/May 2013
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GERALDINE VANCE
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CEO
Increasing pharmacists’ role in health care
By the time this reaches you I am hoping you have had the opportunity to review the seven clinical services proposals that were released by the Association in March. Over the past several months the BCPhA team with input from the Board has developed these proposals to ensure pharmacy is part of the health care discussion that will be part of the provincial election campaign. Regardless of the outcome of the election, the government will be faced with significant financial challenges in terms of managing the health care budget. While it has been said many times, we really have reached a point where we have to look at some new ways of doing things. British Columbians simply can’t keep digging into their pockets to pay more and more taxes. So, I believe the next government will have to look long and hard at the expenditures it makes in health care and changes will come. British Columbia has been at the forefront of many groundbreaking initiatives in health care. The Trial Prescription Program launched in the early 90s was one of them. The work that has been done with family physicians in recent years through the General Practitioners Services Committee is another example of finding innovative ways to deal with the growing portion of the population dealing with chronic conditions. But there is more to be done and we can learn a lot from what other provinces and other countries are doing to deal with scarce human and financial resources. And, whether some practitioners like it or not, all members of the health care team are going to have to work to their maximum expertise and capacity. Things that might have seemed radical a decade ago, like having pharmacists provide diabetes counseling, treating minor ailments or giving flu shots and vaccines in the pharmacy, are a reality today. We think it is time that some successful initiatives that are up and running in other places
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come to BC. Of course, the priority has to be to deliver safe patient care. And just has been the case with pharmacists’ move into providing flu shots and other vaccines, training will be key. In our proposals we have been clear to show how patients will benefit and how monies can be saved. In my view these two factors are key and pharmacists have to do a better job of demonstrating the value they add – not only to the patient experience, but to government efforts to have a sustainable health care system. Our conversation with government and key stakeholders on our recommendations has just begun. But I believe our proposals make a contribution to the discussion about how we move forward and the increased role pharmacists can and should play.
The BCPhA’s clinical services proposals were featured on the front page of The Vancouver Sun on March 12 and in its March 15 editorial.
PARKASH RAGSDALE |
DIRECTOR, PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
If it isn’t documented, it didn’t happen
We heard it many times
in pharmacy school: “If it isn’t documented, it didn’t happen.” Documentation appears to be an area where we need to pay more attention. Good and complete documentation supports interprofessional delivery of patient care. It also demonstrates your professional judgment and the application of your medication expertise. Good documentation should be factual, complete, legible, and timely. Having consistent documentation improves continuity of care within your pharmacy and within the circle of care. BC pharmacists are now adapting prescriptions, administering injections and providing medication review services. But in doing so, you need to fulfill your obligations with the College of Pharmacists of BC (CPBC) and payers, and work with other members of the health care team so they understand what clinical services your pharmacy is providing, and what notifications they can expect. When you adapt prescriptions, prescribing physicians should be aware of the clinical service you’re providing before they receive faxed adaptation notification forms, and the forms should clearly articulate the rationale behind the decision to adapt. These are important steps in building trusting relationships with physicians and ensuring continuity of care. The CPBC has a template for documentation and a sample “Dear Doctor” letter on its website. When you administer immunizations, the patient needs a way to maintain a record of the injections. Providing the patient with an immunization record for all their immunizations from various immunizers supports continuity of care. When you provide a medication review service, you may uncover a medication management issue (i.e., a drug related problem) during the gathering of the patient’s medication history. You would work with the patient to create an action plan to resolve the issue. At the end of this patient consultation you would have completed three forms:
1. Best Possible Medication History with Professional Notes form 2. Best Possible Medication History form 3. Medication Management Issue form As medication experts it is important for pharmacists to create and maintain complete records of patient care, from dispensing, renewals and adaptations, administering injections and medication review services to any new future opportunities. According to the CPBC: “…Documentation establishes accountability and responsibility for your professional activities. It is a key component in demonstrating how you exercised your professional judgment and will be the primary tool used to communicate the rationale for your decision…” In addition to the CPBC, there is also an obligation to comply with policies established by payers with whom pharmacies have legal contracts as service providers. Remember, fulfilling your obligations to the College doesn’t automatically mean your obligation to the payer has been met. Therefore, it’s important to be familiar with the requirements of various payer policies to receive payment for services rendered. Fulfilling documentation obligations to the CPBC and payers are basic requirements. If a review of your records turns up a lack of documentation, or incomplete/illegible documentation, it is difficult to conclude that a service or care took place. Moving beyond basic requirements, documentation is much more than complying with your obligations to the College or payers. It’s about optimizing patient care with other members of the health care team in a way that’s useful and relevant.
www.bcpharmacy.ca
Apr/May 2013
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CYRIL LOPEZ
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CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER
Understanding your employment agreement
This issue’s column is provided by our Pharmassist consultant, Roberta Burris.
Congratulations! You’ve just found a great new
There are a few common misconceptions – below are the truths:
pharmacist, or your dream job as a pharmacist. Either way, you’ve begun an employment relationship.
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Employees are not entitled to two 15-minute coffee breaks daily, unless agreed to by the employer.
An employment relationship is a contract between two parties, each with specific responsibilities. Employer responsibilities are governed by the Employment Standards Act and by common law. Employee responsibilities are laid out in job descriptions and the requirements set out by the employer.
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Employers must ensure that, after five hours of work, employees have a half-hour break.
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The employer-employee relationship is not dependent on length of service but simply the intent of both parties. You can be an employee for a single day.
There’s a lot going on in an employment relationship. The best way to keep things clear is to develop an employment agreement that specifies the terms and conditions of the particular job. The agreement should cover things like hours of work and overtime, wages, breaks, leaves, statutory holidays, annual vacation allowances, major job accountabilities, performance standards and any other special provisions, and be signed by both parties.
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Pharmacists are covered by all provisions of the Employment Standards Act with the exception of pharmacists whose primary responsibility is as a manager.
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Any manager is exempt from overtime and statutory holiday provisions. To be considered a manager, a pharmacist must have a primary responsibility for supervising or directing human or other resources or be employed in an executive capacity.
Some pharmacists and employers enter into an independent consultant arrangement. Before contemplating this arrangement, it is prudent to check the Employment Standards Act and Canada Revenue Agency tests for an independent contractor. Information about the four-way test for an employee as opposed to a contractor is provided on the Employment Standards website (see below). The Employment Standards Act provides a minimum standard and employees may not agree to a lesser entitlement than that provided in the Act. However, if an employer and employee agree to a greater standard, that standard is enforceable, e.g., three weeks holiday after the first year of employment rather than two as provided for in the Act.
The BCPhA provides a consulting service for pharmacists who want information about their employment related rights and responsibilities. For a referral, contact Cyril Lopez at cyril.lopez@bcpharmacy.ca. Information is also available at the Employment Standards Branch website at www.labour.gov.bc.ca/esb/.
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Apr/May 2013
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DRUG AND POISON INFORMATION CENTRE
Niacin: The facts on flushing by Rob Gair, B.Sc. Pharm., CSPI
The BC Drug & Poison Information Centre commonly receives calls from patients who are experiencing an adverse reaction to over-the-counter niacin. Typically patients are taking the drug for the first time in higher doses for hypercholesterolemia or other indications. Usually, they are quite concerned about an “allergic” reaction to the vitamin. Here are some commonly asked questions and answers about flushing from niacin that pharmacists may find helpful with their patients: Q: I recently started taking niacin for high cholesterol. The first time I took it I experienced a hot flushing sensation on my skin that took an hour to go away. I thought I was having an allergic reaction. Can you tell me what happened? Niacin (nicotinic acid vitamin), or vitamin B3, is an essential vitamin. Adults require a daily dietary intake of about 15 mg per day. At much higher doses (1000 to 2000 mg per day) niacin is used as a treatment for high cholesterol. These higher doses of niacin cause an intense flushing or “prickly heat” sensation to the face and upper body, usually 15 to 30 minutes after taking a relatively large dose (e.g., 500 mg). This flushing is experienced by almost everyone and, while it might feel like an allergy, it is not a true allergic reaction.
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Other than causing discomfort, the flushing is harmless and usually subsides within one or two hours. Symptoms are most intense after the first dose and typically diminish over days or weeks with continued use of niacin. Q: Are there different types of niacin that might reduce the flushing? The flushing occurs with over-the-counter immediate-release niacin tablets. With this type of niacin the vitamin is delivered to the body in a short burst and the flushing reaction is more intense. Sustained-release niacin tablets deliver the vitamin to the body in a slower fashion over many hours. This reduces the intensity of the flushing but this type of niacin causes liver damage in some people. A prescription extended-release niacin product called Niaspan® releases niacin in a slower way but over a shorter period of time compared to the sustained-release tablets. This gives the liver a “break” from processing the niacin, making liver damage less likely. This type of niacin has been shown to have positive effects on cholesterol with reduced flushing. However, it is more expensive than regular niacin tablets.
Q: What about “no-flush” niacin? No-flush niacin contains something called inositol nicotinate, which the body is supposed to slowly convert to niacin. However, there is evidence that it does not actually provide the body with much niacin. This is probably the reason it does not produce any flushing. Of course, this also means that no-flush niacin does not have any of the beneficial effects on cholesterol. Q: If I continue to take the regular niacin tablets, are there any tips to minimize the flushing? The key to reducing the intensity of niacin flushing is to start with a low dose and gradually increase the dose over a period of weeks. Taking it with food also helps reduce the intensity of the reaction.
GIG3135
One approach is to start immediate-release niacin at 100 mg twice daily after a meal for the first week, then double the daily dose each week until you are taking what the doctor has prescribed. Aspirin will also help to reduce the flushing. If you are already taking low-dose aspirin (81 to 325 mg daily), try taking it about 30 minutes before your first niacin dose of the day. References available upon request; please contact the BCPhA communications team.
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www.bcpharmacy.ca
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Apr/May 2013
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2013 ELECTION
Clark vs. Dix: What will the battle for BC mean for pharmacy?
by Coco Lefoka
Benjamin Franklin once
In 2010, the government agreed to reinvest savings from lower generic drug prices into clinical pharmacy services: $10 million in 2011/12, $25 million in 2012/13 and $35 million thereafter. The investment was reduced to $10 million for 2012/13 when the government cancelled the agreement in February 2012.
said, “In this world nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes.” His observation should be kept in mind as BC gets ready for the election on May 14, 2013, and the pundits start predicting that an NDP victory is all but certain. Pre-election predictions should always be taken with a grain of salt. Political parties often start election campaigns looking unbeatable, only to be defeated on election day. In 1996 the NDP formed government in BC after trailing in the polls for months, while the Alberta Progressive Conservatives won re-election in 2012 despite steady polls showing them doomed. These experiences show that polls can’t predict what voters do on election day. Voters decide during the election, when they are fully engaged in the issues of the campaign. An important issue for voters during the campaign will be the health care debate. This debate will have a significant impact on pharmacy’s future in the province. The two parties’ records on pharmacy issues offer valuable insights on what pharmacists can expect during the campaign. Under the BC Liberals, pharmacy has made progress on some issues such as immunizations. But this progress has faced some hurdles, notably, the cancellation of the Pharmacy Services Agreement and the passage of the Pharmaceutical Services Act (Bill 35) in 2012.
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After the difficulties experienced with Bill 35 the BC Liberals have been responsive to pharmacy in certain areas. The government listened to pharmacy concerns about Bill 35 destabilizing the economic balance of pharmacy in BC. Rebates were left in place. In March 2013, the government confirmed funding for three pharmacy programs that have been in place since 2010 (medication reviews, the enhanced rural incentive program, and residential care payments). By maintaining this funding the government responded to the BCPhA’s advocacy and ensured that pharmacists could continue to provide primary care services to patients. Premier Christy Clark and the BC Liberals can do more to produce policies that are good for pharmacy. Their 2013 budget stated they planned to “continue to work on other policies aimed at reducing drug costs” but they have yet to provide details on how these measures will be implemented to ensure pharmacy’s continuing economic viability in BC. The BC Liberals have not outlined concrete investment policies for pharmacy services. The party is considering the clinical services proposals the BCPhA released on March 6, 2013.
www.bcpharmacy.ca
The NDP has been open to proposals made by pharmacy. Managing drug costs is a priority for the NDP and leader Adrian Dix. In 2011 the party pressed the government to renegotiate the PSA to match Ontario’s drug prices to achieve additional savings of $50 million. The NDP supported Bill 35, arguing that lower pricing changes should have been implemented earlier. During his 2011 leadership campaign Dix had several policies which are instructive on his views on pharmacy in BC. Dix backed expanding reference-based pricing and increasing support for the Therapeutics Initiative at UBC. As health critic Dix favoured banning tobacco sales in pharmacies. The NDP opposed the government’s reductions of health spending in the 2013 budget arguing that the reductions are unrealistic. The NDP has yet to outline a reinvestment strategy for pharmacy services and the party is also still considering the BCPhA’s clinical services proposals. With this election nothing is certain, particularly for pharmacy. Whatever the outcome, pharmacy needs to prepare for the important task of building relationships with the government elected in May to move forward on the implementation of clinical services.
GOVERNMENT RELATIONS
Advocacy and government relations program update The BCPhA’s government
relations program now has more than 45 pharmacists across the province involved. Since January 30, pharmacists have met with 13 MLAs and six cabinet members to advocate for government to reinvest some of the savings from lower generic pricing back into pharmacy services. We are also sought commitments to maintain program funding for the three programs that have been in place since 2010 (medication review services, the enhanced rural incentive program and residential care payments).
Funding for these programs has been confirmed for the fiscal year beginning April 1, 2013, and the MLA outreach played a key role in achieving this. Now in the lead-up to the May 14 provincial election, government relations is focused on meetings with MLAs and election candidates to build support for the BCPhA’s new clinical services proposals and advocating for government investment in pharmacy services. To get involved with the program, contact Coco Lefoka, public affairs officer, at 604.269.2868 or coco.lefoka@bcpharmacy.ca.
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Apr/May 2013
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STANDING WORK
Is your standing workstation working for you?
by Mandy Gallant, CCPE, Senior Ergonomist, ErgoRisk Management Group Standing work has inherent challenges, not the least of which is the potential for joint and muscle fatigue in the back and legs. Over time some workers may also encounter swelling in the feet and legs and even the appearance of varicose veins. Your daily working posture has a lot to do with whether you navigate these potential pitfalls successfully or allow your work to wear you down. Slouchy is ‘ouchy’’ Using safe movement habits is the most important injury prevention tactic in our arsenal. Implement the following “best practices” and you’ll be well on your way to a healthier, happier body! •
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Maintain a neutral, upright spine posture and hinge at the hips when bending. Avoid rounded spine postures, which put stress on the muscles and ligaments of your back. If needed, raise work up higher on a small platform or box to encourage more upright posture. Protect your shoulders by sticking your chest out and keeping your shoulder blades back when reaching. Avoid
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Apr/May 2013
across body or sideways reaches. Instead, keep your elbows pointing down and turn your body so you always reach in a forward direction. •
Reposition the items you use frequently so they are easily accessed without awkward reaching or twisting.
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Keep your head balanced over your shoulders as much as possible. Our heads weigh as much as a 10-pin bowling ball so holding your head forward of your shoulders takes a lot of muscle work.
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Try moving your eyes rather than your head, and raise or reposition your work so that your work comes to you, rather than ducking down to your work.
www.bcpharmacy.ca
Pharmacist Bryce Wong demonstrates a standing back extension stretch. At minimum, it’s recommended to stretch at least once an hour.
Don’t give me static! Static positioning is more fatiguing than dynamic movement. Static muscle contraction can impede blood flow to the tissues and reduce the supply of oxygen that muscles need to function properly. Avoid this pitfall by shifting positions regularly on the job. •
Install a footrest under the counter and alternating between putting one foot up on it periodically will offer a change of position for your legs and lower back.
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Anti-fatigue matting can reduce the stress to the lower body associated with prolonged standing on hard surfaces.
Hunching over the counter creates a rounded spine posture, putting stress on the muscles and ligaments of the back.
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Make sure you also have properly fitting and adequately cushioned footwear. Organize your work area so that you have to take a few steps here and there to access different items, which will keep you moving and interrupt static postures.
•
If space and layout of your work area permits, a perch stool can allow you to move between semi-sitting and standing postures.
•
At minimum, take a minute to stretch your back and shoulders every hour. Regular micro-breaks keep blood moving and refresh your muscles throughout the day.
Installing a footrest under the counter and alternating between putting one foot up on it periodically will offer a change of position for your legs and lower back.
Don’t make me repeat myself! Repetition is another common risk factor on the job. Repetitive movements, particularly if combined with awkward posture or excessive force, can stress joints, muscles, tendons and ligaments. •
Limit repetition by practicing some simple tasks with your non-dominant hand. Sharing the workload between both hands reduces repetition by 50 per cent.
•
Lay out your work area so you turn to both the left and right sides throughout the day and alternate between hands for reaching and gripping tasks.
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•
Make sure you release tools and equipment when not actually using them. Holding onto a pen when you’re not writing, for example, is an unnecessary use of energy.
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ON THE COVER | CONFERENCE PREVIEW
The BCPhA Annual Conference brings together leaders and innovators in the pharmacy profession for three days of networking, education and collaboration. This year’s conference will be no exception and brings the added benefit of a scenic summer location at the Delta Grand Okanagan Resort and Conference Center in Kelowna. Join us from May 30 to June 1 for events including our “tacky tourist” trade show and networking evening, clinical sessions, panel discussions, the annual awards dinner, and our exciting keynote speaker, David Mitchell. The theme, Collaboration: working together for improved patient care, will focus attention on the benefits of pharmacists working collaboratively with other health care professionals for the benefit of all British Columbians. The 2013 conference is presented with the generous support of our sponsors, including our Partner Sponsor, the College of Pharmacists of British Columbia. The College has also confirmed that conference attendance qualifies as learning for pharmacists to apply towards their Continuing Education (CE) requirement.
Innovations in New Zealand, recognized as an OECD leader in producing health care savings, are often cited as the model for BC to replicate. Experts cite New Zealand’s approach to drug tendering and strict budget policies, which have led to over NZ$300 million in annual savings, as one answer to BC’s health care challenges.
MEET OUR KEYNOTE SPEAKER, DAVID MITCHELL: “AND THEN WHAT?” Health care costs are the largest public expenditure in BC, accounting for 40 per cent of the total provincial budget. BC’s government is also confronting the challenge of meeting growing demands for health services while maintaining fiscal responsibility. Most of the growth in health costs is due to the rising amount and selection of drugs being prescribed to patients. Addressing this reality is critical to securing a sustainable future for BC’s health care.
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But there’s more to New Zealand’s success story than managing drug costs. New Zealand is using pharmacists to effectively provide medication management support and long-term care to chronic patients. Since signing an agreement with community pharmacy in 2008, New Zealand has developed a model of patient-
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centred care with pharmacy that rewards pharmacists for providing support and advice to help patients better manage their medications and medical conditions. By relying on pharmacists to care for chronic patients, New Zealand is successfully reducing one of the biggest drivers of health costs: physician and hospital visits due to chronic disease and medication mismanagement. As the BCPhA Annual Conference’s keynote speaker, David Mitchell, director of New Zealand-based Pharmacy Partners, will speak about what BC can learn from New Zealand’s successful experience
THURSDAY, MAY 30 (EVENING) 1800 to 2100
Tacky Tourist Theme Exhibit & Networking (with stand-up dinner)
FRIDAY, MAY 31 0715 to 0830 0845 to 0900 0900 to 1015
Breakfast Welcome Address – President and CEO Keynote Speaker: David Mitchell – And Then What? Break
1030 to 1145
Panel Discussion Topic to be confirmed
1200 to 1315
Plated Lunch
1330 to 1530
Government Advocacy – Why It Matters (Panel Discussion) Break
1545 to 1745
1800 to 2200
Opportunities in a Changing Environment (Panel Discussion) Reception & Awards Dinner
SATURDAY, JUNE 1 Keynote speaker David Mitchell will look at what BC can learn from New Zealand’s successful pharmacy initiatives.
0715 to 0845
Breakfast
Professional Conduct Committee panel.
0900 to 1015
Future of Pharmacy (Panel Discussion)
of using pharmacy more effectively to manage chronic diseases, reduce costs and improve health care. Mitchell trained as a pharmacist at the New Zealand School of Pharmacy and also holds a postgraduate diploma in Business and Administration from Massey University. He has extensive experience in the pharmaceutical industry in strategic planning roles, has been a group manager with Statistics New Zealand and, before founding Pharmacy Partners, spent 12 years with the Pharmacy Guild as a contracts manager. He also practices as a community pharmacist and is a member of the New Zealand Pharmacy Council’s
In addition to representing pharmacies in the development and implementation of the new funding model, Mitchell works on the New Zealand Universal List of Medicines and leads the team developing a new-aged residential care medication chart for the New Zealand Health Quality and Safety Commission. Mitchell’s keynote session will be featured on Friday, May 31.
Break 1030 to 1145
New Expanded Access or Payer Policies & Trends
1200 to 1315
Plated Lunch
1330 to 1445
New Expanded Access OR
REGISTER EARLY, as space is limited!
Payer Policies & Trends
To learn more, visit www.bcpharmacy.ca. 1445 to 1515
Closing Remarks
17
BCPhA MEMBER SURVEY
Pricing Impacts Survey Please indicate your gender.
n=343
Male
64%
Female
36%
On February 12, 2013, the BC Pharmacy Association issued a survey asking members to share how drug pricing changes were impacting pharmacy wages, staffing levels and services.
cent effective April 1, 2013. This came in addition to pricing changes announced by the BC government also scheduled to take effect April 1, dropping the price of generic drugs to 25 per cent of brand.
The survey was released shortly after the announcement by the Premier’s Council of the Federation to reduce the price of the top six generic drugs to 18 per
We received a great response from members, with 343 people completing the survey by March 8, 2013. Thank you to everyone who participated.
How will this aīect staĸng levels at your pharmacy? I expect pharmacy staĸng levels to increase in the next six to 12 months
1%
I expect pharmacy staĸng levels to remain the same in the next six to 12 months
Please indicate your age.
n=343
Under 30 years
15%
30 to 39 years
25%
40 to 49 years
29%
50 to 59 years
19%
60 to 69 years
11%
70 years or older
2%
15%
I am already seeing a decrease in pharmacy staĸng levels
36%
I expect pharmacy staĸng levels to decrease in the next six to 12 months
37%
Don’t know/Other
73%
11%
n=343
What changes are already occurring or do you anƟcipate will occur in the Ɵme alloƩed to clinical services? Which of the following best describes your current position at your place of employment?
Full-time staff pharmacist
25%
Part-time staff pharmacist
11%
Relief pharmacist
4%
Pharmacy student
2%
Pharmacy manager
24%
Owner/pharmacy executive
33%
Pharmacy technician
0%
Pharmacy assistant
0%
Other (please specify)
2%
I am already seeing an increase in Ɵme alloƩed to clinical services I expect the Ɵme alloƩed to clinical services to increase in the next six to 12 months I expect the Ɵme alloƩed to clinical services to remain the same in the next six to 12 months
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Apr/May 2013
29% 17%
16%
I expect the Ɵme alloƩed to clinical services to decrease in the next six to 12 months Don’t know/Other
n=343
18
12%
n=343
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39%
15%
How will this aīect your annual wage increase? I expect to have an annual wage increase within the next 12 months
2%
I do not expect to have an annual wage increase within the next 12 months
42%
78%
I did not receive an annual wage increase last year
36%
Don’t know/Other
20%
n=343
Do you anƟcipate an increase in regulated pharmacist technicians and/or pharmacy assistants at your pharmacy? Already seeing increase in number of regulated pharmacist technicians or assistants working in my place of employment
12%
28%
Expect number of regulated pharmacist technicians or assistants working in my place of employment to increase in next six to 12 months
16%
Expect number of regulated pharmacist technicians or assistants working in my place of employment to remain about the same in next six to 12 months
30%
Expect number of regulated pharmacist technicians or assistants working in my place of employment to decrease in next six to 12 months
20%
Don’t know/Other
22%
n=343
What changes in hours of operaƟon are already occurring or do you anƟcipate will occur at your pharmacy? Already seeing an increase in pharmacy hours at our store Expect hours of operaƟon to increase in next six to 12 months
1%
4% 3%
Already seeing a decrease in pharmacy hours at our store
11%
34%
Expect hours of operaƟon to decrease in next six to 12 months
23%
No change. Don’t know/Other
47% 16%
n=343
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BOARD ELECTIONS
BCPhA Board of Directors nominees There are eight candidates for election for two positions on the BC Pharmacy Association Board of Directors. Below, in alphabetical order, are biographies for each of the candidates. All BCPhA members were sent a letter and ballot papers in March. The deadline for returning them by mail or in person to the BCPhA ofďŹ ces is April 15, 2013. Alex Dar Santos Nemanja Filipovic Stephanie Hahn Ralph Lai Bob Mehr Scott Monette
ALEX DAR SANTOS
NEMANJA FILIPOVIC
I am running for a Director position on the BCPhA to stand up for our profession. My focus is to strengthen our position with government and third parties, and our portrayal to the public. The path to moving our profession forward with professional services must be charted carefully. We are all at risk from scrutiny from government and third parties. As pharmacists, we must rally to protect our profession and ensure that we are afforded the same respect and good-faith as all other health care professions.
If elected I plan to be a strong advocate for pharmacists and the indispensable services we provide to the public. These services are our future and only recently has pharmacy been adequately valued and compensated. We as a profession must continue to push for an expanded scope of practice by improving our relationship with the government and other third parties. To protect ourselves, we need to improve the communication between our diverse group of pharmacists.
I am a UBC alumnus with more than 10 years of experience as a pharmacist and in pharmacy management, as well as 15 years of retail experience. I am currently an associate-owner at Shoppers Drug Mart and have served on various committees within this organization. I have been an SPEP preceptor for eight years, and value the connection with UBC and its students.
I am a graduate of the University of British Columbia Pharmacy program. After working as a community pharmacist in various chain and independent pharmacies, I currently own and operate two pharmacies in Vancouver. During this time I worked with many pharmacists in both community and hospital settings. We are all pharmacists and it is now time to tear down any walls and divisions between us and stand together, no longer separated by banners and chains.
Thank you for your consideration.
Ellie Rahmani John Tse
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STEPHANIE HAHN
RALPH LAI
BOB MEHR
Stephanie Hahn is a regional pharmacy manager at Canada Safeway Food and Drug Ltd. She has been a practicing pharmacist for the past 19 years, and an active BCPhA Board and College Committee member throughout her career. She is currently on the Jurisprudence Committee at the CPBC, and sits on the Pharmaceutical Advisory Committee for the Board of Optometrists of BC.
I am privileged to be the current president of the BCPhA, and am seeking your support for my second term on the Board. My first term has been filled with much industry challenges and change. We will continue to experience change as our government continues to significantly decrease generic drug costs.
Bob Mehr’s experience providing pharmacy services spans nearly 20 years. His successes are, in fact, impressive given that he has opened and owned and managed 23 stores within that time and presently owns and operates 16 pharmacies under Pure Integrative Pharmacies which he created and they are all independent pharmacies.
Stephanie is very passionate about the profession of pharmacy and believes communication is the key to moving our profession forward with the various third party providers and government officials. We are in critical times requiring incredible leadership to cultivate relationship building and trust between parties in order to negotiate the future of pharmacy. Pharmacists must unite and demonstrate their expanded scope to remain a viable health care professional. It takes vision, inspiration and courage to change and Stephanie is very well-versed in what it takes to change and make change happen. Stephanie’s corporate view, as well as her hands on experience at store level, make her a perfect candidate to represent all of you.
For me, the BCPhA will continue to advocate for community pharmacy, working toward financial solutions to help community pharmacy remain viable. We will influence and negotiate for fair compensation and recognition from our expanded scope. We will positively advocate and influence governments, the public and stakeholders, as the voice of community pharmacy. The BCPhA will continue to create or coordinate educational and training programs for pharmacists to upgrade their practice. I have been a pharmacist for more than 30 years and in a senior management role for more than 17 years. I believe our profession will overcome the current change and be part of the primary health care team. I know I can positively contribute to our profession by being a Board member of the BCPhA.
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His pharmacies were all chosen based on demographic studies and have shown enormous success in the community. Having established strong and lengthy links within the medical community, both via health professionals and patients, he has a broad network of supportive contacts that allow for greater feedback and improvements to his pharmacy operations. A member of many reputable professional associations such as the BC College of Pharmacists, the BCPhA, the Professional Compounding Center of America and University of British Columbia Alumni, Bob is committed to maintaining relationships with industry leaders, which allows his business to remain accountable and progressive in its field.
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BOARD ELECTIONS
SCOTT MONETTE
ELLIE RAHMANI
JOHN TSE
I graduated from the College of Pharmacy at the University of Saskatchewan and felt the call to come back to the west coast where I spent my childhood. I am now married with two children and own a pharmacy in Victoria; therefore am continually trying to find the balance between home and work, and even more so with the recent changes to our profession. Despite the further time commitment as a potential Board director of the BCPhA, I feel it is time to support and advocate for our profession.
Dr. Rahmani is enthusiastic about the opportunity to represent community pharmacists at the BCPhA. Her objective is to emphasize and expand the multidisciplinary role of community pharmacists, provide educational resources, and negotiate with regulatory agencies to create more job security.
John’s career started as a pharmacy technician 27 years ago. He has practiced as a staff pharmacist in a retail setting in chain pharmacy, in an independent community drugstore, and in institutional settings serving long term care homes. John has also served as a pharmacy manager, pharmacy operations manager, pharmacy buyer, and is currently the vice president, pharmacy and cosmetics for London Drugs. He has been involved with preceptorship for upcoming pharmacy and commerce graduates, UBC guest lecturer, BCPhA Board, BC College of Pharmacists committees, Chain Drug Association of BC, Canadian Association of Chain Drug Stores, and Cedar Cottage Association.
As an example of my commitment to our profession, I was recently involved in the BCPhA discussions with a cabinet minister that was seen as productive. While the commitment from government to continue the current level of funding is good news we still have a ways to go, but I believe the future holds many good things for our profession.
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As pharmacy director for 34 Rexall Drug Stores in BC, she has a key role in coaching pharmacists on their extended scope of practice and clinical skills. She actively recruits and trains pharmacists from universities across the globe. Previously, as a pharmacy manager, she provided excellent pharmacy services, improved adherence to government regulations, enhanced store financial performance and assisted nursing homes in enhancing patient care management. Dr. Rahmani has extensive research background in the management of burn injuries and excessive scarring. During her UBC PhD program, she developed a scarreducing wound dressing for treatment of burn and hypertrophic scarring, receiving a WorkSafeBC research-training award. She has authored articles in medical and pharmaceutical journals, and currently writes The Tablet’s skin pharmacy column.
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His leadership at London Drugs has redefined their patient care, creating a successful collaboration with suppliers, doctors, hospitals and health care clinics. His diverse experiences in pharmacy and other industries have given him a deep appreciation for the needs of the profession as well as the needs of the business of pharmacy. John is a UBC graduate: Pharmacy, 1988; Commerce, MBA, 1994.
FINANCIAL TRENDS
Do you need professional help with your long-term strategy?
by Glenn Schoenroth
The volatility and uncertainty of the financial markets over the last 10 years has meant that sticking to a disciplined investment strategy can be harder than ever. Some people are able to guide and coach themselves through the twists and turns of the changing investment landscape. Others, who might not have the time, inclination, experience or self-discipline to do it on their own, should consider hiring an investment professional to establish and maintain a suitable investment strategy for the long term. As a pharmacist you can perhaps see the benefit of getting a professional opinion and sticking to a well-thought-out prescribed course of action! Six questions to ask any potential financial advisor Choosing a financial advisor is a crucial decision. To ensure your wealth is protected, it’s important to work with an advisor experienced in dealing with both unincorporated and incorporated professionals such as yourselves. Before entering into any partnership, ask the following questions, and make sure you are comfortable with the answers. 1. What is your experience and accreditation? Your advisor should be forthcoming about their qualifications, memberships and education, and their firm should be a member of the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada (IIROC). 2. How are you compensated? Many advisors are paid by commission for the products they recommend, while others receive a salary, fixed percentage fee or a flat fee. Find out how your advisor is compensated, how much the services will cost, what choices you have to pay them and what you can expect to receive in return. Are their financial interests aligned with yours?
funds. Some will also offer access to complementary specialists to help clients with will and estate planning, insurance planning, business succession, financial plans and tax efficiency. Find out if your advisor can offer comprehensive, one-stop-shop services and if they are limited to certain investments. 4. What clients do you serve? Ask whether your potential advisor specializes in any particular client group, such as business owners, medical professionals or retirees. Don’t be shy about asking for references either. 5. How will you help me reach my goals? Your advisor should ask you to outline what you hope to gain and guide you if your expectations are unrealistic. Ask about your advisor’s investment process and how they create and manage your investment portfolio. Is each portfolio custom crafted, or is the advisor following a set of established models? 6. What kind of service will I receive? Your advisor should clarify the level of service you can expect. This includes how often you will meet to review your progress, how your advisor will update you on portfolio performance and what sort of contact you can expect. As you search for the right financial advisor, don’t hesitate to ask any questions that help you feel more confident in the management of your wealth. For more information, please visit www.iiroc.ca or contact me today. This article is supplied by Glenn Schoenroth, an Investment Advisor with RBC Dominion Securities Inc., member CIPF. This article is for information purposes only. Please consult with a professional advisor before taking any action based on information in this article. Glenn Schoenroth can be reached at 604.257.7196.
3. What kinds of products and services can you provide? Most full service wealth management specialists will be able to use a wide range of investments, including stocks, bonds and mutual
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MEDICATION RECONCILIATION
Medication reconciliation An opportunity to improve patient safety Medication reconciliation (MedRec) is a formal, systematic process in which health care professionals partner with patients to ensure accurate and complete transfer of medication information at transitions of care.1 It is a required Organizational Practice (ROP) by Accreditation Canada in all acute, residential and community health care settings and is recognized by the WHO, Institute for Safe Medication Practices, Canadian Patient Safety Institute and Safer Healthcare Now! as an essential process for ensuring safe, accurate prescribing in any setting. Pilot studies across Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH) and Providence Health Care (PHC) demonstrated a 60 to 75 per cent reduction in unintentional discrepancies, thereby reducing the potential for adverse drug events. By improving communication regarding medications at transitions of care we improve patient safety and quality of care. Health authorities across the province are at varying stages of implementing MedRec. VCH and PHC have fully implemented MedRec on admission to acute and residential care, and are also implementing or have implemented an admission MedRec process for applicable services/programs in the community sector. “Communicating effectively about medications is a critical component of delivering safe care. Without it, patients are at risk. By identifying and resolving medication discrepancies, the likelihood of adverse events occurring within health care organizations across the continuum of care will be reduced.”2
3. A physician/ prescriber reconciliation component (to provide further direction on these medications). This section becomes the new orders/prescription. Once complete the prescriber will fax the orders/prescription to the community or on occasion the client may bring it to the pharmacy. This MedRec prescription is also looks different than “discharge prescription” forms generated by acute care hospitals. It is important to note that if the medication reconciliation order/ prescription form is authentic, complete, signed by an authorized prescriber and contains all information required by legislation, it can be accepted as a legal prescription. Please refer to the Health Professions Act Bylaw for further details on the legal requirements of a prescription. For more information on Medication Reconciliation contact: Lori Campbell, clinical resource nurse, professional practice, Van Community Lori.Campbell@vch.ca Shelley Novak, medication safety pharmacist, Vancouver General Hospital Shelley.Novak@vch.ca Karin Trapnell, regional project manager (VCH-PHC) Medication Reconciliation
The MedRec process
Karin.Trapnell@vch.ca
The MedRec process involves the utilization of forms prepopulated with PharmaNet information to verify current medications and to create new orders/prescription. The format of these forms may vary somewhat between institutions across the province.
References
The VCH-PHC Community Health MedRec Prescription form consists of three parts: 1. A list of patient medications dispensed in the last six months (PharmaNet) 2. A review of the medications the client is currently taking (the Best Possible Medication History)
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1. Accreditation Canada. (2012). Required organizational practices handbook. Retrieved from: www.accreditation.ca/uploadedFiles/ROP%20Handbook.pdf 2. Institute for Safe Medication Practices Canada (ISMP) (2011) Safe Medication Use.ca.Alert Vol. 2, Issue 3. Retrieved from: www.safemedicationuse.ca/alerts/alerts_pradax_plavix.html Institute for Safe Medication Practices Canada (ISMP) (2012) Retrieved from: www.ismp-canada.org/download/MedRec/20121101MedRecCanadaENG.pdf Safer Healthcare Now! (2011). Medication Reconciliation in Acute Care- Getting Started Kit Version 2.0. Retrieved from: www.saferhealthcarenow.ca/EN/Interventions/medrec/Documents/ Acute%20Care/MedRec%20(Acute%20Care)%20Getting%20Started%20Kit.pdf
CLINICARE PHARMACISTS
Blood serum eye drops by Jason Min and Larry Leung
Yes, you read the title correctly
– but why would anyone use eye drops made from blood? Aside from being an interesting factoid to impress your non-pharmacy friends, blood serum eye drops (also known as autologous serum tears) can be used for the treatment of severe dry eye. We recently saw a 41-year-old female patient who was suffering from severe dry eye secondary to Sjögren’s syndrome, a complex autoimmune disorder often causing dry eyes and mouth. She was starting on blood serum eye drops prescribed by her specialist. Her family physician referred the patient to us for a complete review of her medications and to provide her with more information on the efficacy and usage of blood serum drops. Here is a summary of what we found: CURRENT MEDICATIONS: • Blood serum eye drops 1 drop ou 10 times daily. • Artificial tears without preservatives q1h prn. • Artificial tear gel hs. • Omega 3 tid. • Esomeprazole 40mg od. PREVIOUS MEDICATIONS: • Lotemax (loteprednol) 0.5% 1 drop ou qid for two weeks. • Restasis (cyclosporine) 0.05% 1 drop ou tid.
Blood serum eye drops are specially made from donated blood. Blood serum shares many of the same substances found in tears such as Vitamin A, various growth factors (epidermal, nerve), and other essential chemicals needed for maintaining a healthy ocular surface. By using blood serum on the eye, these nutrients are supplemented, providing improvements in tear stability, dry eye symptoms, and overall ocular health. Blood serum has been shown to be a safe and effective option for treatment of resistant severe dry eye, including in Sjögren’s syndrome.
The greatest challenge in using blood serum drops for our patient was the availability and standardization of the preparation of the product as the product is not commercially available. In general there is a lack of standardization for the collection and preparation of these eye drops. The process includes donor blood being collected, centrifuged, and the resulting serum being extracted. The extracted serum is then diluted, usually to a concentration of 20 per cent using sterile solution, to best match the concentration of natural tears. The diluted serum is then sealed in daily-dose bottles and can be stable in the freezer for several months or in the fridge for 24 hours. Overall, there are very few known adverse effects, with some studies reporting no drug-related complications. However, there is a risk of contracting an infection from the donor blood. In our patient, she was willing to try blood serum drops as an alternative to immunosuppressant medications and because of her fear of permanent damage to her eyes. At our one and three month follow-up, she found the drops improved the grittiness and irritation in her eyes and also noticed a slight improvement in her visual acuity. No adverse effects were noted and the plan is for long-term continued use. Umbilical cord serum also happens to contain many of the necessary growth factors seen in tears or blood. Unfortunately, umbilical serum is difficult to obtain and currently has very limited evidence for use in dry eye. With more research into the benefits of pharmacogenomics and other targeted drug therapy regimens, the use of blood or umbilical serum is an intriguing alternative to conventional therapy. Is this something you would consider using? Have any of your patients been exposed to this type of therapy? Larry Leung and Jason Min are directors of Clinicare Pharmacists Inc. and lecturers at UBC. They have a passion for interdisciplinary care and the development and implementation of innovative clinical pharmacy services in the community.
References Geerling G, Maclennan S, Hartwig D. Autologous serum eye drops for ocular surface disorders. Br J Ophthalmol. 2004;88(11):1467–1474. doi: 10.1136/bjo.2004.044347.
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3 FOR SOME, IT CAN MEAN EXCRUCIATING AND POTENTIALLY DEBILITATING PAIN. * 1,2,
SELECTED IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION ZOSTAVAX® is not a treatment for zoster or postherpetic neuralgia (PHN). If an individual develops herpes zoster despite vaccination, active current standard of care treatment for herpes zoster should be considered. Vaccination with ZOSTAVAX® may not result in protection of all vaccine recipients. ZOSTAVAX® is contraindicated in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to any component of the vaccine, including gelatin; a history of anaphylactic/ anaphylactoid reaction to neomycin; primary and acquired immunodeficiency states due to conditions such as: acute and chronic leukemias; lymphoma; other conditions affecting the bone marrow or lymphatic system; immunosuppression due to HIV/AIDS, cellular immune deficiencies; immunosuppressive therapy (including high-dose corticosteroids); active untreated tuberculosis; pregnancy. In clinical trials, ZOSTAVAX® has been evaluated for general safety in more than 32,000 adults 50 years of age or older. ZOSTAVAX® was generally well tolerated. Vaccine-related injection-site and systemic adverse experiences reported at an incidence ≥1% are shown below. The overall incidence of vaccine-related injection-site adverse experiences was significantly greater for subjects vaccinated with ZOSTAVAX® versus subjects who received placebo (48% for ZOSTAVAX® and 17% for placebo among recipients aged ≥60 (Shingles Prevention Study [SPS]) and 63.9% for ZOSTAVAX® and 14.4% for placebo among recipients aged 50-59) (ZOSTAVAX® Efficacy and Safety Trial [ZEST]). Vaccinerelated injection-site and systemic adverse experiences reported in ≥1% of adults who received ZOSTAVAX® (N=3,345) or placebo (N=3,271) (0-42 Days Postvaccination) in the Adverse Event Monitoring Substudy of the SPS were: erythema† (35.6%, 6.9%), pain/tenderness† (34.3%, 8.6%), swelling† (26.1%, 4.5%), hematoma (1.6%, 1.4%), pruritus (7.1%, 1.0%), warmth (1.7%, 0.3%), headache (1.4%, 0.9%). Most of these adverse experiences were reported as mild in intensity. The remainder of subjects in the SPS received routine safety monitoring, but were not provided report cards. The types of events reported in these patients were generally similar to the SPS subgroup of patients in the Adverse Event Monitoring Substudy. Vaccine-related injection-site and systemic adverse experiences reported in ≥1% of adults who received ZOSTAVAX® (N=11,094) or placebo (N=11,116) (1-42 Days Postvaccination) in the ZEST were: pain† (53.9%, 9.0%), erythema† (48.1%, 4.3%), swelling† (40.4%, 2.8%), pruritus (11.3%, 0.7%), warmth (3.7%, 0.2%), hematoma (1.6%, 1.6%), induration (1.1%, 0.0%), headache (9.4%, 8.2%), pain in extremity (1.3%, 0.8%).
ARE YOUR PATIENTS PROTECTED?
INDICATED FOR THE
PREVENTION OF HERPES ZOSTER
IN INDIVIDUALS 50 YEARS OF AGE OR OLDER.
Please visit our website at: www.merck.ca
* ZOSTAVAX® is not indicated to reduce the morbidity and complications associated with herpes zoster. † Designates a solicited adverse experience. Injection-site adverse experiences were solicited only from Days 0-4 postvaccination in SPS and from Days 1-5 postvaccination in ZEST. References: 1. Data on file, Merck Canada Inc. Product Monograph. ZOSTAVAX®, 2011. 2. Clinical Manifestations: Chickenpox. In: Mandell G, Bennett J, Dolin R eds. Principles and Practice of Infectious Diseases, 6th ed, vol 2. Philadelphia: Elsevier; 2005.
® Registered trademark of Merck Sharp & Dohme Corp., a subsidiary of Merck & Co., Inc. Used under license. © 2012 Merck Canada Inc., a subsidiary of Merck & Co., Inc. All rights reserved.
VACC-1039532-0000-E-CDN-JUL-13
See prescribing prescribingsummary summary page27-28 xxx See onon pages
Prescribing Summary Patient Selection Criteria THERAPEUTIC CLASSIFICATION Live, attenuated virus varicella-zoster vaccine INDICATIONS AND CLINICAL USE ZOSTAVAX® is indicated for the prevention of herpes zoster (shingles). ZOSTAVAX® is indicated for immunization of individuals 50 years of age or older. SPECIAL POPULATIONS For use in special populations, see Supplemental Product Information, WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS, Special Populations. CONTRAINDICATIONS History of hypersensitivity to any component of the vaccine, including gelatin. History of anaphylactic/anaphylactoid reaction to neomycin (each dose of reconstituted vaccine contains trace quantities of neomycin). Neomycin allergy generally manifests as a contact dermatitis. However, a history of contact dermatitis due to neomycin is not a contraindication to receiving live virus vaccines. Primary and acquired immunodeficiency states due to conditions such as: acute and chronic leukemias; lymphoma; other conditions affecting the bone marrow or lymphatic system; immunosuppression due to HIV/ AIDS; cellular immune deficiencies. Immunosuppressive therapy (including high-dose corticosteroids); however, ZOSTAVAX® is not contraindicated for use in individuals who are receiving topical/inhaled corticosteroids or low-dose systemic corticosteroids or in patients who are receiving corticosteroids as replacement therapy, e.g., for adrenal insufficiency. Active untreated tuberculosis. Pregnancy (see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS - Pregnant Women in the Supplemental Product Information).
Safety Information WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS General The health care provider should question the patient about reactions to a previous dose of any varicella-zoster virus (VZV)-containing vaccines (see CONTRAINDICATIONS). As with any vaccine, adequate treatment provisions, including epinephrine injection (1:1000), should be available for immediate use should an anaphylactic/ anaphylactoid reaction occur. Deferral of vaccination should be considered in the presence of fever >38.5°C (>101.3°F). ZOSTAVAX® does not protect all individuals against the development of Herpes Zoster or its sequelae. See ACTION AND CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY and CLINICAL TRIALS in the product monograph. The duration of protection beyond 4 years after vaccination with ZOSTAVAX® is unknown. The need for revaccination has not been defined. ZOSTAVAX® has not been studied in individuals who have previously experienced an episode of herpes zoster. Transmission In clinical trials with ZOSTAVAX®, transmission of the vaccine virus has not been reported. However, postmarketing experience with varicella vaccines suggests that transmission of vaccine virus may occur rarely between vaccinees who develop a varicella-like rash and susceptible contacts. Transmission of vaccine virus from varicella vaccine recipients who do not develop a varicella-like rash has also been reported and is therefore a theoretical risk for vaccination with ZOSTAVAX®. The risk of transmitting the attenuated vaccine virus to a susceptible individual should be weighted against the
risk of developing natural herpes zoster and potentially transmitting wild-type VZV to a susceptible contact. ADVERSE REACTIONS Adverse Drug Reaction Overview In clinical trials, ZOSTAVAX® has been evaluated for general safety in more than 32,000 adults 50 years of age or older. ZOSTAVAX® was generally well tolerated. ZOSTAVAX® Efficacy and Safety Trial (ZEST) in Subjects 50 to 59 Years of Age In the ZEST study, subjects received a single dose of either ZOSTAVAX® (n=11,184) or placebo (n=11,212) and were monitored for general safety throughout the study. During the study, a vaccine-related serious adverse experience was reported for 1 subject vaccinated with ZOSTAVAX® (anaphylactic reaction). All subjects received a vaccination report card (VRC) to record adverse events occurring from Days 1 to 42 postvaccination in addition to undergoing routine safety monitoring throughout the study. Vaccine-related injection-site and systemic adverse experiences reported at an incidence of ≥1% are shown in Table 1. The overall incidence of vaccine-related injection-site adverse experiences was significantly greater for subjects vaccinated with ZOSTAVAX® versus subjects who received placebo (63.9% for ZOSTAVAX® and 14.4% for placebo). Table 1: Vaccine-Related Injection-Site and Systemic Adverse Experiences Reported in ≥1% of Adults Who Received ZOSTAVAX® or Placebo (1-42 Days Postvaccination) in the ZOSTAVAX® Efficacy and Safety Trial ZOSTAVAX® Placebo (N = 11,094) (N = 11,116) Adverse Experience % % Injection-Site Pain† Erythema† Swelling† Pruritus Warmth Hematoma Induration
53.9 48.1 40.4 11.3 3.7 1.6 1.1
9.0 4.3 2.8 0.7 0.2 1.6 0.0
Systemic Headache Pain in extremity
9.4 1.3
8.2 0.8
†
Designates a solicited adverse experience. Injection-site adverse experiences were solicited only from Days 1-5 postvaccination.
Within the 42-day postvaccination period in the ZEST, noninjection-site zoster-like rashes were reported by 30 subjects (15 for ZOSTAVAX® and 15 for placebo). Of 21 specimens that were adequate for Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) testing, wild-type VZV was detected in 10 (3 for ZOSTAVAX®, 7 for placebo) of these specimens. The Oka/Merck strain of VZV was not detected from any of these specimens. Within the same 42-day postvaccination reporting period in the ZEST, varicella-like rashes were reported by 115 subjects (64 for ZOSTAVAX® and 51 for placebo). Of 21 specimens that were available and adequate for PCR testing, VZV was detected in one of these specimens from the group of subjects who received ZOSTAVAX®; however, the virus strain (wild type or Oka/Merck strain) could not be determined. Shingles Prevention Study (SPS) in Subjects 60 Years of Age and Older In the largest of these trials, the Shingles Prevention Study (SPS), 38,546 subjects received a single dose of either ZOSTAVAX® (n=19,270) or placebo (n=19,276) and were monitored for safety throughout the study. During the study, vaccine-related serious adverse experiences were reported for 2 subjects vaccinated with ZOSTAVAX® (asthma exacerbation and polymyalgia rheumatica) and 3 subjects who received placebo (Goodpasture’s syndrome, anaphylactic reaction, and polymyalgia rheumatica). In the Adverse Event Monitoring Substudy, a subgroup of individuals from the SPS (n=3,345 received ZOSTAVAX® and n=3,271 received placebo) were provided vaccination report cards to record adverse events occurring from Days 0 to 42 postvaccination in addition to undergoing routine safety monitoring throughout the study. www.bcpharmacy.ca
Table 2: Number of Subjects with ≥1 Serious Adverse Events (0-42 Days Postvaccination) in the Shingles Prevention Study ZOSTAVAX® Placebo n/N n/N Relative Risk Cohort % % (95% CI) Overall Study Cohort All ages
255/18671 1.4%
254/18717 1.4%
1.01 (0.85, 1.20)
60-69 years old
113/10100 1.1%
101/10095 1.0%
1.12 (0.86, 1.46)
≥70 years old
142/8571 1.7%
153/8622 1.8%
0.93 (0.74, 1.17)
AE Monitoring Substudy Cohort All ages
64/3326 1.9%
41/3249 1.3%
1.53 (1.04, 2.25)
60-69 years old
22/1726 1.3%
18/1709 1.1%
1.21 (0.66, 2.23)
≥70 years old
42/1600 2.6%
23/1540 1.5%
1.76 (1.07, 2.89)
N=number of subjects in cohort with safety follow-up n=number of subjects reporting an SAE 0-42 Days postvaccination
The incidence of death was similar in the groups receiving ZOSTAVAX® or placebo during the Days 0-42 postvaccination period: 14 deaths occurred in the group of subjects who received ZOSTAVAX® and 16 deaths occurred in the group of subjects who received placebo. The most common reported cause of death was cardiovascular disease (10 in the group of subjects who received ZOSTAVAX®, 8 in the group of subjects who received placebo). The overall incidence of death occurring at any time during the study was similar between vaccination groups: 793 deaths (4.1%) occurred in subjects who received ZOSTAVAX® and 795 deaths (4.1%) in subjects who received placebo. Vaccine-related injection-site and systemic adverse experiences reported at an incidence ≥1% are shown in Table 3. Most of these adverse experiences were reported as mild in intensity. The overall incidence of vaccine-related injection-site adverse experiences was significantly greater for subjects vaccinated with ZOSTAVAX® versus subjects who received placebo (48% for ZOSTAVAX® and 17% for placebo). Table 3: Vaccine-Related Injection-Site and Systemic Adverse Experiences Reported in ≥1% of Adults Who Received ZOSTAVAX® or Placebo (0-42 Days Postvaccination) in the Adverse Events Monitoring Substudy of the Shingles Prevention Study Placebo ZOSTAVAX® (N = 3345) (N = 3271) Adverse Experience % % Injection Site Erythema† Pain/tenderness† Swelling† Hematoma Pruritus Warmth
35.6 34.3 26.1 1.6 7.1 1.7
6.9 8.6 4.5 1.4 1.0 0.3
Systemic Headache
1.4
0.9
†
Designates a solicited adverse experience. Injection-site adverse experiences were solicited only from Days 0-4 postvaccination.
The remainder of subjects in the SPS received routine safety monitoring, but were not provided report cards. The types of events reported in these patients were generally similar to the subgroup of patients in the Adverse Event Monitoring Substudy. Within the 42-day postvaccination reporting period in the SPS, the number of reported noninjection-site zoster-like rashes among all subjects was small (17 for ZOSTAVAX ®, 36 for placebo; p=0.009). Of these 53 zoster-like rashes, 41 had specimens that were available and adequate for PCR testing. Wild-type VZV was detected in 25 (5 for ZOSTAVAX®, 20 for placebo) of these specimens. The Oka/Merck strain of VZV was not detected from any of these specimens. The number (n=59) of reported varicella-like rashes was also small. Of these varicella-like rashes, 10 had specimens that were available and adequate for PCR testing. VZV was not detected in any of these specimens. The results of virus testing in subjects with varicella-like and zoster-like rashes should be interpreted with caution due to the number of samples that were not available for testing. Apr/May 2013
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The numbers of subjects with elevated temperature (≥38.3°C [≥101.0°F]) within 7 days postvaccination were similar in the ZOSTAVAX® and the placebo vaccination groups [6 (0.2%) vs. 8 (0.3%), respectively]. Other Studies In other clinical trials conducted prior to the completion of the SPS, the reported rates of noninjection-site zoster-like and varicella-like rashes within 42 days postvaccination were also low in both zoster vaccine recipients and placebo recipients. Of the 17 reported noninjection-site zoster-like and varicella-like rashes, 10 specimens were available and adequate for PCR testing. The Oka/Merck strain was identified by PCR analysis from the lesion specimens of only two subjects who reported varicella-like rashes (onset on Day 8 and 17). To address concerns for individuals with an unknown history of vaccination with ZOSTAVAX ®, the safety and tolerability of a second dose of ZOSTAVAX® was evaluated. In a placebo-controlled, double-blind study, 98 adults 60 years of age or older received a second dose of ZOSTAVAX® 42 days following the initial dose; the vaccine was generally well tolerated. The frequency of vaccine-related adverse experiences after the second dose of ZOSTAVAX® was generally similar to that seen with the first dose. Post-Marketing Adverse Drug Reactions The following additional adverse reactions have been identified during post-marketing use of ZOSTAVAX®. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is generally not possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to the vaccine. Gastrointestinal disorders: nausea Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders: rash. Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders: arthralgia; myalgia. General disorders and administration site conditions: injection-site rash; injection-site urticaria; pyrexia; injection-site lymphadenopathy. Immune system disorders: hypersensitivity reactions including anaphylactic reactions. If a patient experiences an adverse event following immunization, please complete the appropriate Adverse Events following Immunization (AEFI) Form and send it to your local Health Unit in your province/territory. To report a suspected adverse reaction, please contact Merck Canada Inc. in any of the following ways: – Call toll-free 1-800-567-2594 – Complete a Canada Vigilance Reporting Form and fax toll-free to 1-800-369-3090 – Mail to: Merck Canada Inc., Pharmacovigilance, P.O. Box 1005, Pointe-Claire – Dorval, QC H9R 4P8 DRUG INTERACTIONS Overview ZOSTAVAX® must not be mixed with any other medicinal product in the same syringe. Other medicinal products must be given as separate injections and at different body sites. Concurrent administration of ZOSTAVAX® and antiviral medications known to be effective against VZV has not been evaluated. Use with Other Vaccines ZOSTAVAX ® and PNEUMOVAX ® 23 (pneumococcal vaccine, polyvalent, MSD Std.) should not be given concomitantly because concomitant use resulted in reduced immunogenicity of ZOSTAVAX® (see CLINICAL TRIALS in the product monograph).
Administration DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION (see Product Monograph for complete information) Recommended Dose and Dosage Adjustment FOR SUBCUTANEOUS ADMINISTRATION. Do not inject intravascularly. Individuals should receive a single dose consisting of the entire content of the vial (approximately 0.65 mL). 28
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ZOSTAVAX® is not a treatment for zoster or postherpetic neuraligia (PHN). If an individual develops herpes zoster despite vaccination, active current standard of care treatment for herpes zoster should be considered. At present, the duration of protection after vaccination with ZOSTAVAX® is unknown. In the Shingles Prevention Study (SPS), protection was demonstrated through 4 years of follow-up. The need for revaccination has not yet been defined. Reconstitute immediately upon removal from the freezer. To reconstitute the vaccine, use only the diluent supplied, since it is free of preservatives or other antiviral substances which might inactivate the vaccine virus. Vial of diluent: To reconstitute the vaccine, first withdraw the entire contents of the diluent vial into a syringe. To avoid excessive foaming, slowly inject all of the diluent in the syringe into the vial of lyophilized vaccine and gently agitate to mix thoroughly. Withdraw the entire contents into a syringe, and using a new needle, inject the total volume of reconstituted vaccine subcutaneously, preferably into the upper arm - deltoid region. IT IS RECOMMENDED THAT THE VACCINE BE ADMINISTERED IMMEDIATELY AFTER RECONSTITUTION, TO MINIMIZE LOSS OF POTENCY. DISCARD RECONSTITUTED VACCINE IF IT IS NOT USED WITHIN 30 MINUTES. Do not freeze reconstituted vaccine. CAUTION: A sterile syringe free of preservatives, antiseptics, and detergents should be used for each injection and/or reconstitution of ZOSTAVAX® because these substances may inactivate the vaccine virus. It is important to use a separate sterile needle and syringe for each patient to prevent transfer of infectious agents from one individual to another. Needles should be disposed of properly. Parenteral drug products should be inspected visually for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration, whenever solution and container permit. ZOSTAVAX® when reconstituted is a semi-hazy to translucent, off white to pale yellow liquid. OVERDOSAGE There are no data with regard to overdose. For management of a suspected drug overdose, contact your regional Poison Control Center. STORAGE AND STABILITY Storage ZOSTAVAX® SHOULD BE STORED FROZEN at an average temperature of -15°C or colder until it is reconstituted for injection (see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION). Any freezer, including frost-free, that has a separate sealed freezer door and reliably maintains an average temperature of -15°C or colder is acceptable for storing ZOSTAVAX®. The diluent should be stored separately at room temperature (20 to 25°C) or in the refrigerator (2 to 8°C). Do not store the diluent in a freezer. Before reconstitution, protect from light. DISCARD IF RECONSTITUTED VACCINE IS NOT USED WITHIN 30 MINUTES. DO NOT FREEZE THE RECONSTITUTED VACCINE. Supplemental Product Information WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS Special Populations Geriatric: The mean age of subjects enrolled in the largest (N=38,546) clinical study of ZOSTAVAX® was 69 years (range 59-99 years). Of the 19,270 subjects who received ZOSTAVAX®, 10,378 were 60-69 years of age, 7,629 were 70-79 years of age, and 1,263 were 80 years of age or older. ZOSTAVAX® was demonstrated to be generally safe and effective in this population. Pregnant Women: There are no studies in pregnant women. It is also not known whether ZOSTAVAX® can cause foetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman or can affect reproduction capacity. However naturallyoccurring varicella-zoster virus infection is known to sometimes cause foetal harm. Therefore, ZOSTAVAX® should not be administered to pregnant women; furthermore, pregnancy should be avoided for three months following vaccination (see CONTRAINDICATIONS). Nursing Women: It is not known whether VZV is secreted in human milk. Therefore, because some viruses are secreted in human milk, caution should be exercised if ZOSTAVAX® is administered to a nursing woman.
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Pediatrics: ZOSTAVAX® is not recommended for use in this age group. HIV-AIDS Patients: The safety and efficacy of ZOSTAVAX® have not been established in adults who are known to be infected with HIV with or without evidence of immunosuppression (see CONTRAINDICATIONS). Immunocompromised Subjects: Data are not available regarding the use of ZOSTAVAX® in immunocompromised subjects (see CONTRAINDICATIONS). ®
Registered trademarks Merck Sharp & Dohme Corp., a subsidiary of Merck & Co., Inc. Used under license.
11-12_150704 VACC-1039546-0000-E-CDN-JUL-13 PRODUCT MONOGRAPH AVAILABLE AT www.merck.ca OR UPON REQUEST AT 1-800-567-2594
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MERCK CANADA INC. P.O. BOX 1005, POINTE-CLAIRE DORVAL, QUEBEC H9R 4P8
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
ARE YOU MAXIMIZING THE VALUE OF YOUR MEMBER BENEFITS? Pharmacy members can place free Career Opportunities listing in these columns and on the web. General members looking for new career opportunities get free access to Hire-aPharmacist. To learn more, log in and visit the Career Opportunities section of www.bcpharmacy.ca
ABBOTSFORD Pharmacist – part-time Pharmasave in Abbotsford is looking for a part-time pharmacist, for weekends only. The pharmacy is located inside the new Abbotsford Regional Hospital. Remuneration paid according to experience. Contact Shaf or Shabita at 604.870.5600 or info@ pharmasaveabby.com. ALDERGROVE Pharmacy assistant – part-time Safeway offers a full compensation and benefits package with industry-leading components. We are a company committed to both pharmaceutical care and customer care. If you would like to pursue this opportunity further, please apply via our website at www.safewaypharmacy.jobs. BC WIDE Relief pharmacist – part-time Katz Group Canada Ltd. is Canada’s leading integrated retail pharmacy network encompassing more than 1,800 corporate, franchise and independent pharmacies. Dedication to the health and well-being of our customers and patients is at the core of our business. We offer excellent base salary rates, annual bonus opportunities, a full benefits package, educational allowance, paid med checks and career growth opportunities. Qualifications: pharmacy license to practice in BC, experience in retail pharmaceutical systems and dispensing procedures, exceptional communications and organizational skills, strong patient satisfaction orientation, ability to maintain optimum balance between the profession and business of pharmacy, strong problem solving and analytical skills, and the ability to work productively as part of a dynamic, fast-paced team. Please send resumes to njoshi@rexall.ca or apply at www. rexallcareers.ca. BC WIDE (LOWER MAINLAND) Relief pharmacist – full-time If you are a pharmacist who is looking for a great opportunity that provides growth, development and a great work environment then we have the opportunity for you! This position is based in the Lower Mainland, but will provide relief to pharmacies throughout BC. Excellent compensation and benefits plan, accommodation and travel
expenses, on-going career development and training programs. Opportunity to work with seasoned professionals, participate in our customer clinic day events. We offer an annual bonus plan, company stock purchase plan, employee discount program, comprehensive health and dental benefits, and employee share ownership plan. Flexible hours with no 24-hour pharmacies in all our locations. We support continuing education and offer various inhouse training programs. Please contact Kay Sajid at kay.sajid@loblaw.ca, phone 1.905.216.6010, fax 1.866.628.5329, www.drugstorepharmacy.ca. BURNABY Pharmacy manager – full-time A clinical pharmacy manager with operations experience is required for a LTC facility in Burnaby. The ideal candidate possesses a pharmacy license to practice in the province in which you are applying. The position is a full-time position working Mondays through Fridays from 8am to 4pm. They may be asked to carry the on-call phone once every five to six weeks. The manager will oversee the day-to-day operations for the long term care site (not a clinical role). Responsibilities include: provide in-depth medication reviews; pharmaceutical care assessment and follow up; provide related drug information; and participate in patient care and medication management committees. Please send resumes to njoshi@rexall.ca. Pharmacist – full-time Full-time pharmacist required, with preferably two years of experience. This full-time position is Monday through Friday, 10am to 6pm, no weekends. There will be an additional bonus offered at the end of the fiscal year! Please direct all inquiries to Al at asaria@hotmail.com or phone 604.299.6677. Regulated pharmacy technician – full-time The Overwaitea Food Group is one of Western Canada’s largest grocery retailers. We have more than 100 locations in many communities across BC and Alberta. The company operates under multiple banners including Save-On-Foods, PriceSmart Foods, Overwaitea Foods, Coopers Foods and Urban Fare. We distinguish ourselves through five core values – service, people, innovation, integrity and of course, fun. We’re different and we’re proud of it! Our commitment: to foster a work environment that encourages personal growth, training and opportunities with our promote-from-within policies. You must possess: a regulated pharmacy technician license and be in good standing with the College of Pharmacists of BC; professional liability insurance as required by the College; and excellent communication and customer service skills. Kroll computer experience is an asset. Sorry but only short-listed applicants will be contacted. Please forward your resume in confidence to pharmacyemployment@owfg.com.
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Pharmacy assistant – full-time Full-time pharmacy assistant required. This position is Monday through Friday, 10am to 6pm, no weekends. Please direct all inquiries to Al at asaria@hotmail.com or 604.299.6677. BURNS LAKE Pharmacist – full-time Forewest Holdings is currently recruiting for a pharmacist for our Pharmasave location in Burns Lake. Burns Lake is located in northern BC and is an ideal location for a pharmacist interested in clinical pharmacy practice in a rural setting. Burns Lake also provides easy access to numerous outdoor recreation activities. We are looking for a pharmacist with an entrepreneurial spirit that is detail oriented and committed to clinical pharmacy practice. This position may lead to a pharmacy manager position in the future as well as the potential for a partnership opportunity. Interested applicants are requested to send their cover letter and resume to spremji@forewest.ca. Short-listed candidates will be contacted for interviews. CHEMAINUS Pharmacist – full-time and part-time Katz Group Canada Ltd. is Canada’s leading integrated retail pharmacy network encompassing more than 1,800 corporate, franchise and independent pharmacies. Dedication to the health and well-being of our customers and patients is at the core of our business. We offer excellent base salary rates, annual bonus opportunities, a full benefits package, educational allowance, paid med checks and career growth opportunities. Qualifications: pharmacy license to practice in BC, experience in retail pharmaceutical systems and dispensing procedures, exceptional communications and organizational skills, strong patient satisfaction orientation, ability to maintain optimum balance between the profession and business of pharmacy, strong problem solving and analytical skills, and the ability to work productively as part of a dynamic fast-paced team. Please send resumes to njoshi@rexall.ca or apply at rexallcareers.ca. CHILLIWACK Pharmacist – full-time We currently have a career opportunity in Chilliwack, BC. If you are looking to provide patient-focused care within a strong team environment then this opportunity may be for you. At Safeway, you will enjoy a supportive work environment, career advancement opportunities and a competitive compensation package. We offer a full compensation and benefits package with industry-leading components. We are a company committed to both pharmaceutical care and customer care. If you would like to pursue this opportunity further, please apply via our website at www.safewaypharmacy.jobs.
Apr/May 2013
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Regulated pharmacy technician – full-time
Pharmacist – full-time
Chilliwack Rexall has immediate opening for fulltime regulated pharmacy technician. We offer a very competitive compensation package. Please send resumes to njoshi@rexall.ca or apply at www. rexallcareers.ca. Thank you.
We currently have a career opportunity in Courtenay, BC. If you are looking to provide patient-focused care within a strong team environment then this opportunity may be for you. At Safeway, you will enjoy a supportive work environment, career advancement opportunities and a competitive compensation package. We offer a full compensation and benefits package with industry-leading components. We are a company committed to both pharmaceutical care and customer care. If you would like to pursue this opportunity further, please apply via our website at www.safewaypharmacy.jobs.
Pharmacy assistant – part-time Safeway offers a full compensation and benefits package with industry-leading components. We are a company committed to both pharmaceutical care and customer care. If you would like to pursue this opportunity further, please apply via our website at www.safewaypharmacy.jobs. Pharmacy assistant – part-time Part-time pharmacy assistant position available at Save-On-Foods Pharmacy. Certification required or two years dispensary experience. Email bless.cde@gmail.com. COQUITLAM Pharmacist – full-time Shoppers Drug Mart at 1918 Como Lake Avenue, Coquitlam, is currently looking for a full-time pharmacist. Mainly evening and weekend coverage but there is some flexibility. Hours are 9am to 10pm, every day. The location is a beautiful new store, very well organized and runs smoothly, with a great team and you will always have one to three pharmacy technicians on with you. Additional benefits include an employee discount of 30 per cent off retail up to cost price. Fair and equitable wage will be offered to the successful candidate. SDM and HWNG software experience is an asset but willing to train. Email asdm231@shoppersdrugmart.ca. Pharmacist – part-time Shoppers Drug Mart at 528 B Clarke Road, Coquitlam, is currently looking for a permanent part-time pharmacist for 15 to 23 hours per week (two day shifts and two night shifts), depending on candidate availability. Store hours are 9am to 10pm every day. Main set days would be Friday and Saturday am, and Sunday and Wednesday pm. Additional benefits include an employee discount of 30 per cent off retail up to cost price. Fair and equitable wage will be offered to the successful candidate. SDM and HWNG software experience is an asset but willing to train. If you are interested, please email your resume to asdm251@ shoppersdrugmart.ca, attention: Kirtesh. COURTENAY
DAWSON CREEK Regulated pharmacy technician – full-time Clinic drug store - just renovated. Looking for a smiling, passionate and seasoned regulated pharmacy technician with experience in BC to join our pharmacy. Goal is to free up pharmacists’ time so that more clinical services can be provided to patients. You must be able to work with minimal supervision, prioritize tasks, and provide excellent service to patients. Pharmacy is open Monday to Friday 9am to 5:30pm, Saturday 9am to 1pm (except summer closed), no stats. Pay is based on experience and performance, $20-28 per hour. Contact Tenneille Metz by email clinicph@telus.net, phone 250.782.3100, or fax 250.782.8120. DUNCAN Pharmacist – full-time and part-time London Drugs has part-time and full-time opportunities in Duncan. Join a clinical and patient focused team using the latest robotic dispensing machines plus counseling booths and counseling rooms. Competitive salary and compensation packages, scheduled meal breaks and opportunities to advance to roles such as travel medicine, long term care, pharmacy management, CDE, injection pharmacist and patient care pharmacists. Please send resume to Rx operations manager, Shawn Sangha, at ssangha@londdrugs. com or fax 604.448.1075. Pharmacy assistant – part-time Safeway offers a full compensation and benefits package with industry-leading components. We are a company committed to both pharmaceutical care and customer care. If you would like to pursue this opportunity further, please apply via our website at www.safewaypharmacy.jobs.
Pharmacy manager – full-time
FORT ST. JOHN
If you are a pharmacist who is looking for a great opportunity that provides growth, development and a great work environment then we have the opportunity for you! Excellent compensation and benefits plan, relocation allowance, on-going career development and training programs. We offer the opportunity to work with seasoned professionals, participate in our customer clinic day events, annual bonus plan, company stock purchase plan, employee discount program, comprehensive health and dental benefits, and employee share ownership plan. Flexible hours with no 24-hour pharmacies in all our locations. We support continuing education and offer various inhouse training programs. Please contact Kay Sajid at kay.sajid@loblaw.ca, phone 1.905.216.6010, fax 1.866.628.5329, www.drugstorepharmacy.ca.
Pharmacist – full-time/part-time
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We here at Shoppers Fort St. John are looking for a full time/part-time pharmacist who thrives in a busy environment. The ideal candidate would be patient oriented, able to multi-task in a high script volume environment, and make medication reviews a daily focus. Starting wage is $54/hr and negotiable depending on experience. If you believe you are a suitable candidate, please email your resume to asdm274@shoppersdrugmart.ca or call Irvin to discuss further details at 250.793.8413. GIBSONS Regulated pharmacy technician – full-time Howe Sound Pharmacy in beautiful Gibsons, BC, is currently looking for a full-time regulated pharmacy technician to join our growing team
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of dedicated professionals. The ideal candidate is organized, has excellent customer service skills, and is able to multi-task while working independently with minimal supervision. We provide a unique practice environment with personal and professional growth opportunities. Our pharmacy technicians support the pharmacists’ role to provide excellent pharmaceutical care in order to achieve better patient outcomes. Please contact John Shaske at johnshaske@telus.net. KAMLOOPS Pharmacist – full-time If you are a pharmacist who is looking for a great opportunity that provides growth, development and a great work environment then we have the opportunity for you! Excellent compensation and benefits plan, relocation allowance, on-going career development and training programs. Opportunity to work with seasoned professionals and participate in our customer clinic day events. We offer an annual bonus plan, company stock purchase plan, employee discount program, comprehensive health and dental benefits, and employee share ownership plan. Flexible hours with no 24-hour pharmacies in any of our locations. We support continuing education and offer various in-house training programs. Please contact Kay Sajid at kay.sajid@loblaw.ca, phone 1.905.216.6010, fax 1.866.628.5329, www.drugstorepharmacy.ca. KELOWNA Pharmacist – full-time Opened in 1973, Lakeside Medicine Centre Pharmacy has long been dedicated to clinical pharmacy. Current owners Greg Andreen and Chris Waller are strong believers in this philosophy. A large support staff of pharmacy assistants and technicians ensures pharmacists aren’t rushed when counselling patients or conferencing with health care professionals. A typical day has three pharmacists working between 8am and 6pm. Together we provide superior customer care to our diverse patient population. We provide renal medications to pre-dialysis and dialysis patients on behalf of the BC Provincial Renal Agency, Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy for the Centre for Excellence in HIV/Aids, and transplant medications for the Transplant Society of BC. We are also members of the Professional Compounding Centres of America. Our competitive wage and benefit package includes medical, dental and life insurance, College license fees and BCPhA membership. Practice pharmacy the way it was intended and in one of the most scenic cities in Canada. Resumes may be sent to Lakeside Medicine Centre, attention Chris Waller, or email chris@lakesidepharmacy.ca. Phone 250.860.3100, fax: 250.860.3104. MAPLE RIDGE Pharmacist – full-time We are looking for a part-time or fulltime experienced pharmacist with good communications skills in our new location in Maple Ridge. Our team is dedicated to giving our customers the best possible pharmaceutical care. If you are interested, please send us your cover letter, resume, and references to satthari@gmail.com or visit www.medlandia.com.
MILL BAY Pharmacist (maternity leave) – part-time Join the team at our established community pharmacy in Mill Bay, BC. You’ll work closely with professional colleagues, patients, and their families. You’ll play an integral role in creating highest quality patient outcomes by providing traditional and alternative therapies; medication reviews; injections; community education seminars; blister packaging; compounding; patient counselling; and outreach with a focus on prevention. Our pharmacy is a PCCA certified compounding center; our pharmacy assistants are trained to do mastectomy prosthesis and bra fittings, as well brace fittings. We have a large natural health section and an on-site natural health specialist. Our support staff is excellent! We provide competitive wages, benefits, continuing education opportunities and a desirable Island lifestyle just 30 minutes north of Victoria. Wages, benefits, incentives, learning opportunities are negotiable, based on experience and performance. Please send your resume, cover letter and references to rxmanagerps221@gmail.com. Need more info? Contact Erika Pfahl, pharmacy manager or Wendy Hiebert, store manager at 250.743.9011. We thank all applicants in advance and will contact those selected for interviews. MISSION
Please send resumes to njoshi@rexall.ca or apply at rexallcareers.ca. NORTH VANCOUVER Pharmacy manager and pharmacist – full-time If you are a pharmacist who is looking for a great opportunity that provides growth, development and a great work environment then we have the opportunity for you! Excellent compensation and benefits plan, relocation allowance, on-going career development and training programs. We offer the opportunity to work with seasoned professionals, participate in our customer clinic day events, annual bonus plan, company stock purchase plan, employee discount program, comprehensive health and dental benefits, employee share ownership plan. Flexible hours with no 24-hour pharmacies in all our locations. We support continuing education and offer various in-house training programs. Please contact Kay Sajid at kay.sajid@loblaw.ca, phone 1.905.216.6010, fax 1.866.628.5329, www.drugstorepharmacy.ca. Pharmacy assistant – part-time Safeway offers a full compensation and benefits package with industry-leading components. We are a company committed to both pharmaceutical care and customer care. If you would like to pursue this opportunity further, please apply via our website at www.safewaypharmacy.jobs.
Pharmacy manager – full-time
OKANAGAN
Katz Group Canada Ltd. is Canada’s leading integrated retail pharmacy network encompassing more than 1,800 corporate, franchise and independent pharmacies. Dedication to the health and well-being of our customers and patients is at the core of our business. We offer excellent base salary rates, annual bonus opportunities, full benefits package, educational allowance, paid med checks and career growth opportunities. Qualifications: pharmacy license to practice in BC, experience in retail pharmaceutical systems and dispensing procedures, exceptional communications and organizational skills, strong patient satisfaction orientation, ability to maintain optimum balance between the profession and business of pharmacy, strong problem solving and analytical skills, and the ability to work productively as part of a dynamic fast-paced team. Please send resumes to njoshi@rexall.ca or apply at rexallcareers.ca.
Relief pharmacist – full-time
NANAIMO Pharmacist – full-time Katz Group Canada Ltd. is Canada’s leading integrated retail pharmacy network encompassing more than 1,800 corporate, franchise and independent pharmacies. Dedication to the health and well-being of our customers and patients is at the core of our business. We offer excellent base salary rates, annual bonus opportunities, full benefits package, educational allowance, paid med checks and career growth opportunities. Qualifications: pharmacy license to practice in BC, experience in retail pharmaceutical systems and dispensing procedures, exceptional communications and organizational skills, strong patient satisfaction orientation, ability to maintain optimum balance between the profession and business of pharmacy, strong problem solving and analytical skills, and the ability to work productively as part of a dynamic fast-paced team.
If you are a pharmacist who is looking for a great opportunity that provides growth, development and a great work environment then we have the opportunity for you! Excellent compensation and benefits plan, relocation allowance, on-going career development and training programs. We offer the opportunity to work with seasoned professionals, participate in our customer clinic day events, annual bonus plan, company stock purchase plan, employee discount program, comprehensive health and dental benefits, and an employee share ownership plan. Flexible hours with no 24-hour pharmacies in all our locations. We support continuing education and offer various in-house training programs. Please contact Kay Sajid at kay.sajid@loblaw.ca, phone 1.905.216.6010, fax 1.866.628.5329, www.drugstorepharmacy.ca Relief pharmacist – full-time We currently have a career opportunity in Okanagan, BC. If you are looking to provide patient-focused care within a strong team environment then this opportunity may be for you. At Safeway, you will enjoy a supportive work environment, career advancement opportunities and a competitive compensation package. We offer a full compensation and benefits package with industry-leading components. We are a company committed to both pharmaceutical care and customer care. If you would like to pursue this opportunity further, please apply via our website at www.safewaypharmacy.jobs PENDER HARBOUR Pharmacist – full-time Marina Pharmacy in Pender Harbour is looking to hire a full-time pharmacist position. Marina Pharmacy is an independent community pharmacy located on the Sunshine Coast two hours from Vancouver. Pender Harbour is a small
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coastal community that is a popular retirement destination. As well, Pender Harbour offers many recreational opportunities to residents and visitors of the area. Marina Pharmacy prides itself on a personal, friendly environment for both staff and customers. We have reasonable operating hours and offer very competitive wages and benefits. If this opportunity interests you, please contact us for more information by email careyt@telus.net, phone 604.741.8147 or fax 604.883.0719. PENTICTON Pharmacist – full-time We currently have a career opportunity in Penticton, BC. If you are looking to provide patient-focused care within a strong team environment then this opportunity may be for you. At Safeway, you will enjoy a supportive work environment, career advancement opportunities and a competitive compensation package. We offer a full compensation and benefits package with industry-leading components. We are a company committed to both pharmaceutical care and customer care. If you would like to pursue this opportunity further, please apply via our website at www.safewaypharmacy.jobs. Pharmacy assistant – part-time Safeway offers a full compensation and benefits package with industry-leading components. We are a company committed to both pharmaceutical care and customer care. If you would like to pursue this opportunity further, please apply via our website at www.safewaypharmacy.jobs. PORT ALBERNI Pharmacist – full-time If you are a pharmacist who is looking for a great opportunity that provides growth, development and a great work environment then we have the opportunity for you! Excellent compensation and benefits plan, relocation allowance, on-going career development and training programs. We offer the opportunity to work with seasoned professionals; participate in our customer clinic day events; annual bonus plan; company stock purchase plan; employee discount program; comprehensive health and dental benefits; and employee share ownership plan. Flexible hours with no 24-hour pharmacies in all our locations. We support continuing education and offer various in-house training programs. Please contact Kay Sajid at kay.sajid@loblaw.ca, phone 1.905.216.6010, fax 1.866.628.5329, www.drugstorepharmacy.ca. PRINCE GEORGE Pharmacist – full-time Key responsibilities of a Shoppers Drug Mart (SDM) pharmacist include: medication reviews; checking prescriptions for accuracy; counselling on prescription medications; OTC counselling; health management consulting; participation in SDM programs including cognitive/enhanced services as these programs may evolve over time and as required by the business; and collaboration with a pharmacy assistant to accurately dispense prescription medications. Qualifications: Bachelor of Pharmacy, license to practice in BC; superior interpersonal skills; strong verbal and written communication skills; commitment to providing exceptional customer service; computer proficiency; exposure to SDM systems and
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standard operating procedures; efficient time management abilities; and effective organization and planning skills. Flexible schedule including some evenings and weekends. Contact Richard at 250.562.8169 or email asdm268@shoppersdrugmart.ca.
and customer care. If you would like to pursue these opportunities further, please apply via our website at www.safewaypharmacy.jobs.
Pharmacist – full-time and part-time
Safeway offers a full compensation and benefits package with industry-leading components. We are a company committed to both pharmaceutical care and customer care. If you would like to pursue this opportunity further, please apply via our website at www.safewaypharmacy.jobs.
SIDNEY Pharmacy assistant – part-time
London Drugs has part-time and full-time opportunities in Prince George. Join a clinical and patient focused team using the latest robotic dispensing machines plus counseling booths and counseling rooms. Competitive salary and compensation packages, scheduled meal breaks and opportunities to advance to roles such as travel medicine, long term care, pharmacy management, CDE, injection pharmacist and patient care pharmacists. Please send resume to Rx operations manager, Shawn Sangha at ssangha@londondrugs.com or fax 604.448.1075.
SOOKE Pharmacist – part-time
Regulated pharmacy technician – full-time Reid’s Prescriptions is a busy pharmacy in the heart of the province. We are looking for a fulltime regulated technician to further improve our delivery of care. Responsibilities will include your full scope of practise. We have about eight assistants currently supporting one tech and three to five pharmacists. Contact Brent or Chris at 250.564.6666, email reids@mag-net.com. PRINCE RUPERT
SOUTH OKANAGAN
Pharmacy assistant – part-time Safeway offers a full compensation and benefits package with industry-leading components. We are a company committed to both pharmaceutical care and customer care. If you would like to pursue this opportunity further, please apply via our website at www.safewaypharmacy.jobs. QUESNEL Regulated pharmacy technician and pharmacy assistant - part-time Safeway offers a full compensation and benefits package with industry-leading components. We are a company committed to both pharmaceutical care and customer care. If you would like to pursue these opportunities further, please apply via our website at www.safewaypharmacy.jobs. RED DEER Pharmacist – full-time We currently have a career opportunity in Red Deer, AB. If you are looking to provide patientfocused care within a strong team environment then this opportunity may be for you. At Safeway, you will enjoy a supportive work environment, career advancement opportunities and a competitive compensation package. We offer a full compensation and benefits package with industryleading components. We are a company committed to both pharmaceutical care and customer care. If you would like to pursue this opportunity further, please apply via our website at www.safewaypharmacy.jobs. SALMON ARM Regulated pharmacy technician and pharmacy assistant – part-time Safeway offers a full compensation and benefits package with industry-leading components. We are a company committed to both pharmaceutical care
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Work in a quiet community where you get a chance to make a difference. A small community offering the best of the Island lifestyle, and the city close by if you need it. Position available is approximately 28-30 hours at Peoples Drug Mart in Sooke, BC. Must have superior customer service skills, knowledge of Kroll an asset, but very easy to learn. Fair schedule, perfect pace, usual benefit package and competitive rates. I would be open to a twoweek trial (wage, accommodation, included) to see if the job would be to your liking before any long term commitment is made. Please contact Ron Kumar, phone 250.642.2226 or email pdm180@shaw.ca.
Pharmacist – full-time Forewest Holdings is currently recruiting for a pharmacist for the South Okanagan region. We are looking for a pharmacist with an entrepreneurial spirit that is detail oriented and committed to clinical pharmacy practice. Pharmacists with injection training and experience performing medication reviews are encouraged to apply. Interested applicants are requested to send their cover letter and resume to spremji@forewest. ca. Short-listed candidates will be contacted for interviews. SURREY Pharmacy manager – full-time Forewest Holdings is currently recruiting for a pharmacy manager for our Pharmasave #071 location in Surrey. We are looking for a pharmacist with at least one year of experience who is proficient with Kroll computer software. Pharmacists with injection training and experience performing medication reviews are encouraged to apply. Interested applicants are requested to send their cover letter and resume to spremji@forewest. ca. Short-listed candidates will be contacted for interviews. Pharmacist and pharmacy manager – full-time NAZ’s Pharmacy is seeking a full-time pharmacy manager and pharmacist for our Surrey location. NAZ’s Pharmacy is a group of independent, community-based pharmacies that provide patient-centered practices. We offer the autonomy of an independent pharmacy, with the stability, competitive wage and benefits package of the large chain stores, without the micromanaging and corporate layers. We pride ourselves on our dedication to our employees and interest in long-term relationships. New graduates and any experience level are welcome to apply. Contact us to learn more about our opportunities and what
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NAZ’s Pharmacy can offer you! Please send your resume to Nafisa Merali, email hr@nazpharmacy. com, phone 604.603.7923, or fax 604.608.3230. Pharmacist – part-time Part-time pharmacist needed for independent community pharmacy. Friendly environment, flexible shifts and no evenings. We offer a competitive wage. Must be able to work some weekends. New grads welcome! Please fax your resume to 604.543.4433, phone 604.543.6677. Pharmacist – part-time Part-time pharmacist needed for independent community pharmacy. Preferably two years of experience. This part-time position is for Saturdays 9am to 3pm, Sundays 9am to 1pm. Friendly environment, competitive wage, and no evenings. It is essential that candidates possess strong interpersonal skills and have a commitment to providing exceptional customer service in a team environment. Please fax 604.507.0971 or email medshoppe240@gmail.com Pharmacist – part-time We are a busy Surrey pharmacy looking for a pharmacist for an early morning shift (3am to 9am) to handle methadone deliveries. Pharmacist will be required to witness ingestion at time of delivery and complete paperwork in accordance with the College of Pharmacists of BC. Competitive wage and friendly environment. Driver and car will be provided. Interested applicants should fax 604.507.0971 or email medshoppe240@gmail.com Regulated pharmacy technician – part-time Safeway offers a full compensation and benefits package with industry-leading components. We are a company committed to both pharmaceutical care and customer care. If you would like to pursue this opportunity further, please apply via our website at www.safewaypharmacy.jobs. VANCOUVER Pharmacist – full-time Position available for a full-time pharmacist starting as soon as March 18 or as late as April 1 at a Shoppers Drug Mart community pharmacy. Excellent working environment! Looking for a pharmacist who can make at least a one year commitment to the position and is familiar with the Shoppers Drug Mart HealthWATCH system. Please contact asdm2234@shoppersdrugmart.ca or phone 604.708.9090. Pharmacist – full-time An independent, clinically-oriented pharmacy is looking for a full-time pharmacist to fill a maternity leave starting in June 2013 (no evenings, Sundays or holidays). We are a PCCA compounding pharmacy with a strong focus on nutritional supplement and medical supplies. Experience in these areas is not necessary, but would be an asset. Send your resume to macrx3@medicinecentre.com Pharmacist – full-time and part-time One full-time pharmacist (32 to 40 hours per week, no evenings or holidays) starting in April 2013. Also required one regular part-time pharmacist (two shifts, no evenings or holidays). Experience in retail pharmacy, exceptional communication and organization skills. Must work productively as a member of a dynamic team. If required, must be willing to work at two different pharmacy locations (both in the Lower Mainland). Also, having a second
language is an asset. Please apply via email ymm@yyoung.com or fax 604.324.1727. Part-time pharmacist needed for an independent pharmacy in Vancouver. No Sundays or evenings required. Cantonese speaking is an asset. If interested, please contact Mary, phone 604.683.6381 or fax 604.683.8623.
day events, annual bonus plan, company stock purchase plan, employee discount program, comprehensive health and dental benefits, employee share ownership plan. Flexible hours with no 24-hour pharmacies in all our locations. We support continuing education and offer various in-house training programs. Please contact Kay Sajid at kay.sajid@loblaw.ca, phone 1.905.216.6010, fax: 1.866.628.5329, www.drugstorepharmacy.ca.
Relief pharmacist – part-time
Pharmacy assistant – part-time
Part-time relief pharmacist required. Ability to speak Chinese or Vietnamese would be an asset. Interested candidates please contact Wen Wong, pharmacy manager, by email ps068norquay@ gmail.com or phone 604.569.0681. Pharmasave #068 Norquay Village, 2235 Kingsway, Vancouver, BC V5N 2T6.
Safeway offers a full compensation and benefits package with industry-leading components. We are a company committed to both pharmaceutical care and customer care. If you would like to pursue this opportunity further, please apply via our website at www.safewaypharmacy.jobs.
Regulated pharmacy technician and pharmacy assistant - part-time
VICTORIA
Safeway offers a full compensation and benefits package with industry-leading components. We are a company committed to both pharmaceutical care and customer care. If you would like to pursue these opportunities further, please apply via our website at www.safewaypharmacy.jobs.
The pharmacy manager is responsible for managing store pharmacy operations and maintaining a professional and cohesive working relationship with the front store manager and staff. They are a catalyst in the execution of a superior patient care experience that translates into an environment that ensures people make the healthiest choices quickly, easily and confidently, helping them feel better every day. The ideal candidate has: a pharmacy license to practice in BC; experience in retail pharmaceutical systems and dispensing procedures (e.g., Nexxsys); ability to maintain optimum balance between the profession and business of pharmacy; strong financial acumen; excellent communication and organizational skills; strong customer/ patient satisfaction orientation, leadership and decision-making skills; and previous pharmacy management experience (preferred). Please send resumes to njoshi@rexall.ca or apply at www.rexallcareers.ca.
Pharmacist – part-time
Pharmacy assistant – full-time You have pharmacy work experience and are fluent in Cantonese and Mandarin. We are a small pharmacy, with a steady flow of prescriptions so there will be frequent interactions with patients in person and on the phone. You will help the pharmacist dispense medications, blister pack medications, maintain inventory, keep the pharmacy organized and clean, and you will use the cash register. Also, there will be administrative duties such as filing and simple accounting. This position is full-time, Monday to Friday, with no evening shifts. Saturday morning shifts may be required from you and that will be discussed. Email vancouverpharmacyjob@hotmail.com.
Pharmacy manager – full-time
Pharmacist – full-time VANDERHOOF Pharmacist – full-time If you are a pharmacist who is looking for a great opportunity that provides growth, development and a great work environment then we have the opportunity for you! Excellent compensation and benefits plan, relocation allowance, on-going career development and training programs. We offer the opportunity to work with seasoned professionals; participate in our customer clinic day events; annual bonus plan; company stock purchase plan; employee discount program; comprehensive health and dental benefits; and employee share ownership plan. Flexible hours with no 24-hour pharmacies in all our locations. We support continuing education and offer various in-house training programs. Please contact: Kay Sajid at kay.sajid@loblaw.ca. Tel: 1.905.216.6010 Fax: 1.866.628.5329, www.drugstorepharmacy.ca. VERNON Pharmacist – full-time If you are a pharmacist who is looking for a great opportunity that provides growth, development and a great work environment then we have the opportunity for you! Excellent compensation and benefits plan, relocation allowance, on-going career development and training programs. We offer the opportunity to work with seasoned professionals, participate in our customer clinic
Forbes Pharmacies are a local success story, located in beautiful Victoria, BC. To support our growth and expansion we are accepting resumes for part-time and full-time pharmacists to join and add to our success. When you join The Forbes Pharmacy Group you become one of the family. We offer a competitive salary and benefits package, and full pharmacy technician coverage. If you are interested in working for Forbes Pharmacies please submit your CV along with cover letter to Forbes’ president, Mike Forbes, at mforbes@forbespharmacy.ca. Pharmacist – full-time London Drugs has part-time and full-time opportunities in Victoria. Join a clinical and patient focused team using the latest robotic dispensing machines plus counselling booths and counselling rooms. Competitive salary and compensation packages, scheduled meal breaks and opportunities to advance to roles such as travel medicine, long term care, pharmacy management, CDE, injection pharmacist and patient care pharmacists. Please send resume to Rx operations manager, Shawn Sangha, fax 604.448.1075 or email ssangha@londondrugs.com. Pharmacist – full-time
and enthusiasm; providing professional advice to patients on prescription and OTC products to maximize patient loyalty; supporting in-store events; supervising pharmacy technicians; ensuring company operating procedures, policies, professional standards and regulations are followed; implementing proper pricing and receiving procedures to minimize shrinkage in such areas as damaged goods, returns and theft; and maintaining dispensary inventory levels within prescribed guidelines. The ideal candidate has a pharmacy license to practice in BC, strong patient satisfaction orientation and excellent communication, organizational and problemsolving skills; achieves results with a sense of urgency and a “can-do” attitude; and works productively as a member of a dynamic and fastpaced team. Please send your resume to njoshi@rexall.ca. Pharmacist – full-time or part-time We are seeking a full-time or part-time pharmacist to join our Peoples Drug Mart location in Victoria, BC. Our store has an elderly population base and is located adjacent to physicians’ offices and walk-in medical clinics. We are seeking the following skills: ability to work collaboratively with physicians and staff; ability to counsel patients on the use of OTCs; ability to perform medication reviews; and ability to communicate effectively with elderly patients. Candidates with injections authority are encouraged to apply. Please phone 250.818.1468 or email sunil@sparklit.com. Pharmacist – part-time Pharmacist required to work at Victoria Peoples Pharmacy owned and operated by Naz Rayani. We are looking for an engaged, clinically oriented outgoing, part-time pharmacist to work at our unique community pharmacies. Our focus is on patient-centered practice with a desirable and friendly population. All applications are confidential. Compensation is commensurate with experience. Please submit applications to jobs@victoriapharmacy.com. Pharmacist – part-time James Bay Pharmasave in Victoria is looking for a permanent, part-time pharmacist, averaging about 28 hours per week, to work in our patient-focused dispensary. The successful candidate will be joining a friendly, customer service oriented team to serve our patients in this beautiful community. Applicants must be authorized to administer injections and have the ability to do medication reviews. Kroll experience is an asset. A competitive wage and benefits package is available. Store hours are Monday to Friday 8am to 8pm and Saturday/Sunday/holidays 9am to 6pm. Please apply with cover letter and resume to Robert Wojtas, owner/pharmacist, at ps130mgr@telus.net. No phone calls please. Regulated pharmacy technician – part-time Pharmacy technician required to work at Victoria Peoples Pharmacy owned and operated by Naz Rayani. Our focus is on patient-centered practice with a desirable and friendly population. All applications are confidential. Compensation is commensurate with experience. Please submit applications to jobs@victoriapharmacy.com.
Working collaboratively with the pharmacy manager, your focus includes demonstrating outstanding sales ability, leadership capabilities,
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Regulated pharmacy technician and pharmacy assistant - part-time Safeway offers a full compensation and benefits package with industry-leading components. We are a company committed to both pharmaceutical care and customer care. If you would like to pursue these opportunites further, please apply via our website at www.safewaypharmacy.jobs. WHISTLER Regulated pharmacy technician – full-time Whistler Rexall has an immediate opening for full-time regulated pharmacy technician. We offer a very competitive compensation package. Please send resumes to njoshi@rexall.ca or apply at www.rexallcareers.ca. Thank you. OPPORTUNITIES ACROSS BC CANADA SAFEWAY LIMITED - The Safeway family is one of the leading employers of retail pharmacists in North America. We operate pharmacies in British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario and the United States. Thanks to the professionalism, diversity, spirit and friendliness of our people, our business is thriving across the US and Canada. From our stores to our corporate headquarters, we can offer careers that build your skills and your future. At Safeway, we value integrity, personal excellence, lifelong learning and growth, and fairness in all we do. We are committed to providing the best possible professional services to our customers and partners. We hold ourselves accountable to our clients, shareholders, and employees by honoring our commitments, providing results, and delivering only the best. Our goal is to be a great place to work where people are inspired to be the best that they can be. As an industry leader, we have demonstrated that we have a successful past and a solid future. Plan yours with us. We currently have opportunities across BC: please see the Job Board for specific locations or visit our site at www.safewaypharmacy.jobs. FOREWEST HOLDINGS - Pharmacists are needed for various Forewest Holdings locations across BC. We are currently looking for pharmacists to join our rapidly expanding company. Forewest Holdings operates 30 locations in BC and Alberta and we will be expanding in the near future. To facilitate our expansion plans, we are interested in hiring pharmacists that are committed to clinical pharmacy practice in the community setting and possess an entrepreneurial spirit. Pharmacists interested in developing their skills to grow a pharmacy business in an independent environment are encouraged to apply. Pharmacists should be team players. We are looking for pharmacists who are committed to building relationships with customers and physicians and who will work hard to make their store a destination for health and wellness information. If you are interested in joining our dynamic company, please send your resume to spremji@forewest.ca. LONDON DRUGS is accepting applications for pharmacist positions throughout BC. Pharmacists will have the opportunity to be involved with various patient care initiatives offered at London Drugs such as INR monitoring, long term care, certified diabetes education, immunization and various clinics such as osteoporosis screening, heart health, diabetes, sun and smoking cessation. We offer a competitive salary and benefit package,
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moving allowances, a professional working environment, scheduled meal breaks, semi-private counseling booths, automated robotic dispensing machines and employee discounts. Please apply in confidence to Shawn Sangha, B.Sc. (Pharm), London Drugs Ltd. pharmacy operations manager, BC. Phone 604.272.7469, fax 604.448.1075, or e-mail ssangha@londondrugs.com. OVERWAITEA FOOD GROUP - consisting of Overwaitea Foods, Save-On-Foods, PriceSmart Foods, Urban Fare and Coopers Foods - is hiring. Staff pharmacist positions are available in 100 Mile House, Campbell River, Chilliwack, Cranbrook, Creston, Fort Nelson, Grand Forks, Kelowna, Kitimat, Parksville, Prince George, Quesnel, Squamish, Terrace, Williams Lake, and Fort McMurray, Red Deer and Lethbridge in Alberta. Relief pharmacist floater positions and pharmacy technician positions in BC and Alberta are also available. We provide an excellent pharmacy practice environment with personal growth and career development potential. Very competitive wages and benefits including a pharmacist incentive plan. We thank all applicants, however only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Contact Chi Quon, regional pharmacy manager, phone 604.881.3574, fax 604.882.7896, or email chi_quon@owfg.com, www.saveonfoods.com. PEOPLES DRUG MART and Peoples Pharmacy have several locations throughout beautiful British Columbia offering a desired combination of employment opportunity and unbeatable lifestyle. Contact Smita Natha, professional services manager, Peoples Drug Mart, 520-4400 Dominion Street, Burnaby, BC, V5G 4G3. Phone 604.431.3595 ext. 26, fax 604.431.3596, or email smitan@pdmstores.com. REXALL - Since 1904, Rexall has been a trusted name in retail pharmacy. Rexall is also the flagship pharmacy for Katz Group Canada, a leading drug store company and the largest integrated retail pharmacy network in Canada with more than 1,800 corporate, independent and franchise pharmacies across the country. As the umbrella brand for a family of pharmacies including the Rexall, Rexall Pharma Plus, The Medicine Shoppe, Guardian and I.D.A. banners, Rexall is dedicated to the health and well-being of our customers and patients and strives to provide the best possible pharmacy care in a pharmacy first environment. Our long term care pharmacists and pharmacy technicians provide highly specialized clinical and medication management services for residents of nursing homes, retirement residences, assisted living facilities and group homes through dedicated pharmacies. If you are interested in applying or would like to learn more about the opportunities we have, please visit our website at www.rexallcareers.ca or contact a member of our team, Neerav Joshi, pharmacy recruitment manager at njoshi@rexall.ca. SHOPPERS DRUG MART is one of the most recognized and trusted names in Canadian retailing. The company is the licensor of fullservice retail drug stores operating under the name Shoppers Drug Mart (Pharmaprix in Québec). With more than 1,000 Shoppers Drug Mart and Pharmaprix stores operating in prime locations in each province and three territories, the company is one of the most convenient retailers in Canada. At Shoppers Drug Mart, we have always remained true to our belief that the
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root of our success lies with our people. We pride ourselves on the quality and commitment of our employees who thrive on exciting challenges. THRIFTY FOODS - Bring your professionalism and your dreams to Thrifty Foods’ new frontier and become an important part of our company as we grow together. Pharmacy manager and staff positions available. Thrifty Foods Pharmacy is committed to offering a comprehensive pharmacy service to these communities. Competitive wages and benefits. Interested candidates are invited to submit their resumes to Nafeesa Shaikh, pharmacy recruitment and retention specialist, Sobeys Pharmacy Group. Toll free 1.800.790.0733 x. 7704, phone 902.468.1000 x. 7704, fax 877.662.1955.
BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES At PHARMASAVE we understand that you want to be in business for yourself, not by yourself. You can have the best of both worlds! Maintain your freedom and independence while having access to the most comprehensive retail and professional programs in the industry. Pharmasave’s proven products, programs and strong national Brand are always at your service. Pharmasave is unlike any other independent pharmacy venture in Canada. We are a true cooperative that is 100 per cent member owned and governed. With Pharmasave, not only do you benefit from owning your own business, but you also share in the economic advantages of a 400 plus strong group of stores. Plus, you will be an owner in an organization that delivers all of its profits directly back to you, the shareholder. Allow us to demonstrate the advantages of Pharmasave. If you are a store owner or a pharmacist interested in purchasing a pharmacy, or if you are planning on selling your business, please give us a call. Pharmasave’s only priority is you and your success! Contact Dave Reston, CEO, Pharmasave Pacific, phone 604.575.5730 or 1.800.665.3344, email dreston@pharmasavebc.ca. Are you thinking of selling your pharmacy? OVERWAITEA FOOD GROUP may be interested. If you would like more information contact us at pharmacybuyer2012@gmail.com. Community pharmacy for sale – Port Alberni A super community pharmacy for sale. Viable Rx department. Price will include 2700 square foot strata lot. Easier financing if required. Alberni Valley economy is on rebound. Phone 250.723.9323, fax 250.723.8221. Partnership opportunity – Vancouver Partnership opportunity for an experienced and motivated pharmacist looking for a wellestablished pharmacy next to a busy walk-in clinic and with plenty of physicians in the neighborhood, lots of foot traffic and near a busy SkyTrain station. Call 604.928.3837 for more information.
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BCPhA prescribed member discounts BCPhA prescribed member discounts
Canucks playoff tickets! Canucks playoff tickets! Limited amount of tickets
FEATURE OFFERING FEATURE OFFERING
Limited amount of tickets Tickets will be discounted from the regular price and will be available in mid to late April. Our tickets are in the lower bowl in Section 102 Row 17 (no alcohol section). Tickets will Tickets will be discounted from the regular price and will be available in mid to late April. be sold on a first come first served basis. Our tickets are in the lower bowl in Section 102 Row 17 (no alcohol section). Tickets will be sold on a first come first served basis. Visit www.bcpharmacy.ca/canucks for more information. Photo from www.canucks.com
Visit www.bcpharmacy.ca/canucks for more information.
Photo from www.canucks.com
Vancouver Whitecaps Vancouver Whitecaps Save big on all ticket types!
The Mortgage Group The Mortgageevaluation Group Complimentary
Save $13alltoticket $24 depending Savefrom big on types! on the ticket type you choose! Save from $13 to $24 depending
and a $200 gift card upon Complimentary evaluation completion and a $200 gift card upon
on the ticket type you choose!
completion
Hotels around the world Hotels around the 10 toworld 15% cheaper
National Car Rental Enterprise Rent-A-Car National Car Rental Enterprise Rent-A-Car Savings plus
than 10 toother 15%booking cheaper websites average than otheronbooking
added services Savings plus and benefits added services and benefits
websites on average
Fully loaded plan for $50 month plan for Fullya loaded
More offers More offers
$50 a month $150 to $250 in cash and backin cash $150credit to $250
BC Lions tickets Car purchase BC Lions tickets Cineplex tickets Car purchase Clearlycontacts.ca Cineplex tickets Events, shows, restaurants Clearlycontacts.ca
PNE and Playland events Real estate services PNE and Playland events Retail Real estate services Subscriptions Retail and more new offers coming... Subscriptions
and credit back
Events, shows, restaurants
and more new offers coming...
HOW TO ACCESS THE DEALS HOW TO ACCESS THE DEALS Login to www.bcpharmacy.ca and go to the Member Support - Affinity Rx section or email vince.lee@bcpharmacy.ca Login to www.bcpharmacy.ca and go to the Member Support - Affinity Rx section or email vince.lee@bcpharmacy.ca
Join us May 30 to June 1 at the Delta Grand Okanagan Resort and Conference Centre in Kelowna. Visit www.bcpharmacy.ca to register now!
Partner
Thank you to our sponsors: Diamond
Platinum
Gold
Silver
Bronze
Exhibitors: Adams Cambie Insurance Services Ltd. , AmerisourceBergen Canada, Bayer Inc., Beiersdorf Canada , Boehringer Ingelheim (Canada) Ltd., College of Pharmacists of British Columbia, Desante Financial, Galenova, Healthmark Services Ltd., Heel Canada, Hydration Pharmaceuticals Canada Inc., ImmunizeBC, Johnstone’s Benefits, LifeScan Canada Ltd., LiquiMedLock Inc., Lundbeck Canada, McKesson Canada, Medical Futures Inc., Medicine Shoppe Canada, Methameasure Canada Inc., Odan Laboratories Ltd., Pacific Blue Cross, PCCA Canada, Purdue Pharma Canada, Scotiabank, Takeda Canada Inc., Telus Health, Xenex Laboratories
Visit www.bcpharmacy.ca