Come September 1, 2011, the next stage of professional pharmacy services will roll out across Ontario. Dianne McArthur, executive officer of Ontario Public Drug Programs made the announcement August 22 with the promise of more details to follow “in the very near future.”

Based on recommendations by the Expanding Professional Pharmacy Services Working Group (EPPS) and the Ontario Pharmacy Council, Ontario is launching a Smoking Cessation Program for ODB recipients.

As well, the Pharmaceutical Opinion Program, implemented on April 1 as part of phase one of expanded pharmacy services, will be expanded. The Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care (MOHLTC) is also introducing MedsCheck program standardization and system requirements.

This latest expansion of pharmacy services is just the beginning of new programs being developed this fall. In her communique, McArthur noted that future services will focus on appointment-based professional services and will require communication and planning with the Ontario Pharmacistsʼ Association and the Ontario Medical Association. Programs under development include:

• MedsCheck Complex Assessment
• Medication Reconciliation for Hospital Discharge
• Chronic Disease Management
• Home Diagnostic Training

Original source: Canadian Healthcare Network