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Community Pharmacy
Steps Up to Fight the Flu
Pharmacists deliver more than 200,000 flu shots to Ontarians
TORONTO, On., February 5, 2013 — As many Ontarians cough, sneeze, sniffle and ache
through one of the worst flu seasons in recent memory, community pharmacists have
stepped up to help stop the spread of influenza.
This past October, the provincial government passed regulations to expand the scope
of pharmacy practice and enable pharmacists to provide patients with new primary care
services including flu shots. In just a few short weeks, pharmacies and pharmacists applied,
prepared and qualified to participate in the 2012-2013 Universal Influenza Immunization
Program (UIIP). Pharmacies and pharmacists have truly embraced their enhanced healthcare
role.
“Our government is making it easier than ever to get the free flu shot by maximizing the
services provided by pharmacists so that Ontarians can receive the care they need safely,
quickly and closer to home,” says Deb Matthews, Minister of Health and Long-Term Care.
“Pharmacists are highly-trained and trusted health providers. Getting immunized against the
flu is the most effective way to stay healthy during this flu season.”
More than 580 pharmacies from every corner of the province, in large urban centres
and remote rural towns, have made getting a flu shot more convenient and accessible for
patients. Nearly 2,500 pharmacists have registered to administer injections, having successfully
completed a program approved by the Ontario College of Pharmacists (OCP), and this
number continues to grow.
As a result, more than 200,000 Ontarians have visited a community pharmacy and
received a flu shot from a certified pharmacist.
“Those pharmacists who have completed their required injection training have played a
significant role in safely immunizing Ontarians during this flu season,” explains Marshall
Moleschi, Registrar of the Ontario College of Pharmacists. “The standards set by the College
for injection training are equivalent to those of other health professionals so patients can
trust their choice when selecting a pharmacist to provide this service.” As the regulatory
body for the profession of pharmacy, OCP’s mandate is to set the standards for the delivery
of safe and effective pharmacy services to the public.
PAGE 20 ~ WINTER 2013 ~ PHARMACY CONNECTION