The Pharmacy Association of Newfoundland and Labrador is seeking greater universal coverage for pharmacy services that they argue is keeping people out of the health care system.
PANL President Dr. Ashley Waghmare says pharmacists have shown their worth since they were compensated for treating a list of eight minor ailments.
“I think we’re at about 30,000 residents in this province (who) have been assessed and potentially prescribed for a UTI by a pharmacist, so that’s 30,000 people who we are keeping out of doctors’ offices, out of waiting rooms and I certainly think we’ve kind of shown what we can do to help with the health care system.”
She says there are only eight common ailments that they are currently receiving coverage for, but they are able to assess and prescribe 33 common ailments – including strep throat and a range of women’s health issues.
“So, 25 of those are not covered under this universal coverage. I think it’s something that government definitely needs to start focusing on so that the public can avail of their pharmacists more.”
