Pharmacy Care Pilot enhancing access to team-based care
A pharmacy care pilot project is improving access to care for clients with mental health management and some chronic medical conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), hypothyroidism and Warfarin medication management.
With support from the Ministry of Health, collaborative practice agreements were signed between three local physicians and one Shoppers Drug Mart location in Swift Current. The agreements allow the pharmacists to provide medication management, disease education and personalized supports for their patients with mental health concerns and certain chronic medical conditions.
“This pharmacy pilot brought multi-disciplinary teams and stakeholders together to enhance our collective ability to provide patient-centered care by leveraging the knowledge and skillset of pharmacists,” said Dr. Emmett Harrison, Family Physician in Swift Current.
“Through streamlined communication between the physicians and pharmacists, the pilot allows patients to see their doctor sooner by freeing up time previously used for prescription renewals,” said Dawn Erickson, Patient Family Partner. “From a rural patient perspective, this tremendously impacts those that have to travel to see their doctor.”
This initiative supports patient engagement with health-care services by increasing access to care and streamlining services – especially for mental health patients.
“By having the right provider do the right work, this pilot is increasing access to primary care providers for all patients,” said Curtis Newton, Director of Primary Health Care. “This redefined team-based approach enhances access to care and has the potential to improve patient satisfaction and outcomes.”