Alberta College of Pharmacists pushes for ban on rewards for prescription drugs

Proposes a prohibition on inducements for drugs and professional pharmacy services

EDMONTON, April 18, 2013 /CNW/ - The Alberta College of Pharmacists has proposed a prohibition on inducements for prescription drugs and professional pharmacy services. After surveying Alberta pharmacists and pharmacy technicians, the college found overwhelming support for the proposal. Seventy per cent of those surveyed support a ban of inducements, and 75 per cent support the college pursuing the ban.

"This isn't about any one pharmacy or any one type of reward. The prohibition would apply to all pharmacists, pharmacy technicians, and pharmacies," said Greg Eberhart, Registrar, Alberta College of Pharmacists. "Pharmacists are making decisions about drug therapy; it's not the same environment that we had five or 10 years ago. Our interest is around the practices of pharmacists and the new expectations and responsibilities they have. We want to make sure they are free from conflict.

"The college is exploring several options for putting the prohibition into effect. Our focus is on finding the best solution and implementing it in the way that ensures quality patient care."

The Alberta College of Pharmacists (ACP) regulates pharmacy in Alberta by governing pharmacies, pharmacists, and pharmacy technicians in a manner that protects and best serves the public interest and the integrity of pharmacy.

For more information regarding this issue, please see Inducements for Drugs and Professional Services: A Basis for a Prohibition, Frequently Asked Questions, or visit pharmacists.ab.ca.

SOURCE: Alberta College of Pharmacists

Karen Mills, Communications Director
Alberta College of Pharmacists
[phone]
[email protected]