Amidst the recent buzz surrounding Bill 2 in the medical field, a lesser-known provision concerning pharmacies has sparked worry among pharmacists. The bill includes a section regulating pharmacies’ use of private agencies, catching many in the industry off guard.
According to the legislation, community pharmacies are limited to utilizing staffing agencies or independent workers as per government regulation.
The Association québécoise des pharmaciens propriétaires (AQPP) had requested this regulation on agency usage, and is pleased that Health Minister Christian Dubé has taken action. However, the inclusion of this provision in the bill came as a surprise to the Quebec Order of Pharmacists and the Association professionnelle des pharmaciens salariés du Québec (APPSQ), who were not consulted.
Benoit Morin, president of AQPP, expressed satisfaction with the regulation in an interview. He emphasized the importance of regulating agency use to effectively implement Bill 67, which expanded pharmacists’ responsibilities.
Patrick Hemery, president of APPSQ, also aims to prevent fee abuses but suggests alternative solutions to regulate the market and ensure a positive work environment for all pharmacists in Quebec.
Concerns arise about the impact of the new measure on pharmacist shortages and patient care. The regulation could lead to reduced hours and services in pharmacies, affecting access to care for patients.
Overall, the pharmacy community is wary but willing to adapt to the new regulations once they are in place to ensure continued quality care for the public.
Keyphrase: pharmacy agency regulation
