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summer 2010 |
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h e a l t h a d m i n i s t r a t i o n
Pharmacists granted authority to modify and extend prescriptions
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Stock Photo |
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New
changes to the pharmacy regulations and new standards of pharmacy practice adopted by
the Newfoundland and Labrador Pharmacy Board mean that pharmacists in the province are
now able to refill, extend or adjust prescriptions.
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Compiled By NLMA Staff |
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New changes to the pharmacy
regulations and new standards of pharmacy practice adopted by the
Newfoundland and Labrador Pharmacy Board mean that pharmacists in
the province are now able to refill, extend or adjust prescriptions.
With the patient’s consent, a pharmacist
can now use his or her judgment to provide an emergency supply of
medication, extend expired prescriptions for limited periods and make
minor changes to prescriptions to avoid delays in dispensing them to
patients. Pharmacists can also modify the prescription to allow for
easier intake such as changing a tablet medication to liquid form. When
extending a prescription or making any changes, the pharmacist must
notify the original prescriber.
In a news release, Keith Bailey, chair of
the Newfoundland and Labrador Pharmacy Board, said that pharmacists have
always used their knowledge and skills to select and provide appropriate
medication to their patients, but in a limited manner.
“This regulation will allow pharmacists to
more fully utilize their medication management expertise in the interest
of the health and well-being of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians. This
is an excellent example of how collaboration among health professionals
can better serve the needs of patients without compromising safety,”
said Mr. Bailey.
Limitations and conditions that govern a
pharmacist’s ability to exercise professional judgment are outlined in
the standards of pharmacy practice. The standards were developed in
consultation with the College of Physicians and Surgeons, the
Association of Registered Nurses, the Pharmacists’ Association of
Newfoundland and Labrador, the Department of Health and Community
Services and Newfoundland and Labrador Medical Association.
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