Neighbourhood Pharmacies is closely following recent developments in Quebec related to Bill 15 and amendments that may have implications for community pharmacy and patients receiving their care.
As part of the legislative review process, amendments have been introduced that would enable the government to set limits on fees charged to private insurers for pharmacy services: an approach that represents a significant policy shift and one that warrants careful consideration of potential impacts.
Community pharmacies are a critical part of Canada’s health system, improving access to care, supporting public health, and helping to alleviate pressure on other parts of the system. Our recent public opinion research shows that Canadians overwhelmingly value the care they receive from pharmacists, with strong confidence in their ability to provide front-line services and expand access to primary care.
As governments across the country, including Quebec, continue to advance important work to expand scope of practice and strengthen team-based care, it is essential that policy decisions which may impact the viability of the pharmacy sector are developed in close consultation with those delivering care on the ground. A sustainable and thriving community pharmacy sector is foundational to achieving these shared goals.
Given the potential for broader implications beyond Quebec, it will be important to fully understand how such measures could impact pharmacy sustainability, access to care, and overall health system costs.
Neighbourhood Pharmacies will continue to work collaboratively with partners across the country to support a strong, accessible, and sustainable pharmacy sector for patients and communities.