The Saskatchewan Government has touted the pilot project that allows participating pharmacists to conduct point-of-care testing for strep throat and assess ear infections to be a success.
Launched in January, the project has delivered over 3,000 services across the province.
As of July 13, the total number of patients assessed at participating pharmacies was 3,135, with 745 for sore throat and 2,390 for suspected ear infections. Nearly 53 percent, or 1,640 of the cases did not require a prescription
Pharmacists at select locations across the province have been trained to assess symptoms, perform rapid testing for strep throat, and determine appropriate treatment options, including prescribing medication when appropriate.
"This pilot is one of the first in Canada and shows that pharmacists play a vital role in enhancing access to timely care for common conditions," Rural and Remote Health Minister Lori Carr said. "The fast access to assessment and treatment is reassuring to patients and strengthens team-based primary health care in the province.
More than 140 pharmacists taking part in this program have been trained to meet competency requirements as established by the Saskatchewan College of Pharmacy Professionals (SCPP) to provide these services. 11 pharmacies, including Shopper’s Drug Mart in Humboldt have been conducting strep throat testing and assessing for ear infections, while another 35 sites have been offering assessment for ear infection only.
"Saskatchewan College of Pharmacy Professionals is proud of the profession's leadership in this pilot, which reflects not only pharmacists' strong clinical competence but also the robust training and standards guiding their care," SCPP President Scott Livingstone said. "This initiative has been built on collaboration with experts in the field and regulators and is a testament to the profession's commitment to safe, patient-centred care."
Based on these early results and further evaluation, the program may be expanded to additional pharmacies in the future.