Media Information / Media Kit

The BC Pharmacy Association (BCPhA) condemns the actions of any pharmacist or pharmacy owner that is involved in any illegal activity related to the dispensing of medications used to treat patients with substance use disorder, including “safer supply”. Giving out incentives or participating in the diversion of any of these medications by pharmacy operators is unacceptable, and the Association supports the Ministry and College of Pharmacists taking all actions necessary to ensure patients are protected. Patients struggling with addiction are amongst the most vulnerable in our community. They...

Vancouver (May 15, 2024) — Nearly one year after B.C.’s pharmacists were able to prescribe for minor ailments and contraceptives, the vast majority of British Columbians say they support B.C. pharmacists being able to offer more services at their local pharmacy. In a survey commissioned by the BC Pharmacy Association and conducted by Stratcom between April 22 and April 25, 2024, nearly 90% of respondents said they support community pharmacists being able to offer more patient care services like the ability to order lab tests and provide point-of-care testing for things like strep throat in...

Vancouver (Dec. 4, 2023) — B.C. community pharmacists are on track to deliver the same number of COVID-19 and flu vaccines as last year, which saw record-breaking numbers. As was the case last year, patients were able to receive their flu and COVID vaccines at the same time meaning they were able to be well-protected going into the fall and winter respiratory season. B.C.’s vaccine campaign started earlier than other provinces, with a launch date of Oct. 10, 2023. More than 1,340 community pharmacies across the province have participated in this year’s annual respiratory virus vaccination...

Vancouver (Oct. 31, 2023) — British Columbia’s community pharmacists have hit record numbers and delivered almost 85 per cent of the province’s COVID and influenza vaccinations, having administered more than 1 million doses since launching the annual respiratory illness campaign on Oct. 10. “We have seen a great demand from the public who are wanting to protect themselves from both COVID-19 and flu this year,” says Chris Chiew, President of the BC Pharmacy Association. “Pharmacists are pleased to continue to be the major provider of vaccines to the public. We are one of the most accessible...

(Vancouver) May 31, 2023 — Starting tomorrow, June 1, community pharmacists across British Columbia will be able to prescribe for contraception and many minor ailments, like indigestion, cold sores, mild acne, and uncomplicated urinary tract infections. This expanded access means British Columbians can visit a local pharmacy to see their pharmacist for a prescription for any one of 21 minor ailments or contraception. This change helps relieve the burden on the B.C.’s primary care system and emergency rooms and allows patients convenient access to get treatment for common ailments. “Pharmacists...