Canada's community pharmacies are committed to working with the Government of Ontario to enhance access to affordable care

TORONTO, May 3, 2013 /CNW/ - Canada's community pharmacies look forward to working with government to implement strategic solutions that manage healthcare costs and improve access to patient care.

Healthcare savings contained in the budget tabled by Minister Sousa, reflect collaborative efforts between Canada's broader pharmacy community and the Government of Ontario. Together, community pharmacy and the government can ensure patients have access to the right care, at the right time, and in the right place, while balancing the need to contain healthcare costs.

"Leaders from across the broader pharmacy community are committed to working with the Government of Ontario to ensure that we are making the best use of Canada's most accessible healthcare centres and Canada's most trusted health care professionals - the pharmacy and the pharmacist" said Denise Carpenter, President and CEO of the Canadian Association of Chain Drug Stores (CACDS).

"Savings announced by Minister Sousa in today's budget, achieved through drug reimbursement strategies, were developed in partnership with industry. We look forward to a continued role in helping Minister Matthews and health officials design new approaches to the delivery of patient care in the pharmacy. This approach will ensure significant healthcare savings; help Ontarians manage chronic conditions; prevent costly and life threatening adverse drug reactions; and help make sure that patients have access to the right medication, at the right time, at the right price" continued Carpenter.

Earlier this month Canada's community pharmacies launched a collaborative initiative that outlines innovative strategies to improve access to affordable care. The plan identifies five creative initiatives that, based on estimates independently validated by the Conference Board of Canada, could save governments between $8.5 billion and $11 billion over three years.

These strategies include:

• Treating minor ailments and administering certain vaccines
• Ensuring affordable access to key medications
• Managing chronic conditions
• Leveraging the pharmaceutical distribution model
• Further preventing adverse drug reactions

"We look forward to ongoing collaboration with Premier Wynne, Minister Sousa, and Minister Matthews as we do our part to enhance patient care and manage cherished health care dollars" concluded Carpenter.

SOURCE: Canadian Association of Chain Drug Stores

For more information or to arrange interviews please contact:

David Simmonds
Vice President, Public Affairs, CACDS
[email protected]
416- 889-5964