The BC Pharmacy Association (BCPhA) has been advocating for pharmacies to be added as distribution points for the free Take Home Naloxone (THN) program. The BC Centre for Disease Control (BCCDC), BC Harm Reduction Strategies and Services and Toward the Heart, have worked with the BCPhA to make community pharmacies in BC distribution points for the THN program.
There is a tremendous opportunity for pharmacy to be part of the solution in the opioid crisis, and distributing the naloxone kits is one aspect of what pharmacy can contribute. Many pharmacists are already trained on how to use these kits and those who are not trained can get up to speed with resources on the website of the College of Pharmacists of BC. Pharmacists will be expected to train each client who receives a free nalaxone kit.
We have been working with chains and banner groups on registration, answering logistical questions and distribution details. It is hoped that most, if not all, pharmacies in the province will participate in this program.