HealthPRO Canada hosted its Pharmacy Advisory Council – bringing together 44 Pharmacy leaders and strategists from across the country - to discuss critical national issues, align on contract strategies and share exciting new programs to prevent supply disruptions. Here are some of the key highlights from the two-day meeting: 

Soon-to-be Launched National Reserve Drug Supply Program 

We’re preparing to launch our pilot project for the Reserve Drug Supply Program, which will bolster guaranteed inventories to fill gaps during critical disruptions. 

Strategy Alignment on Upcoming Oncology Contracts (PS25) 

Members weighed in on contract strategies for the upcoming Oncology portfolio. Barcodes on the unit of use, specifically those with variable data, continue to be a high priority for members.  

These barcodes, which include expiry date and lot number, enhance patient safety by enabling automated processes like bedside medication verification - making sure the right patient, gets the right dose, at the right time, by the right method. They also enable efficient follow-ups in case of recalls, and ensure patients receive only up-to-date medication. 

Implications of Domestic Procurement Preference 

Kevin Den Heijer, Health Policy Expert at Enterprise Health, provided an overview of nationwide procurement policies that provide preference to local suppliers like the "buy local" agenda, emphasizing the economic, social and environmental benefits for local businesses and highlighting the political implications of these policies. He also touched on the Building Ontario Businesses Initiative, and what it means for Suppliers and Members across Ontario.  

National Pharmacare Update: NDP Pressures, Legislative Hurdles, and Cost Complexities 

Additionally, Kevin provided a high-level update on the federal government’s effort to establish a national pharmacare system, addressing the dynamics between the NDP and the government, and challenges in legislating the system's structure. The discussion delved into the dynamics between federal government’s and NDP priorities, the timeline for potential legislative action, and what next steps might look like for our industry in implementing this legislation.   

We look forward to continuing these important discussions and meeting with members at our next Pharmacy Advisory Council meeting in January 2024!