What did the New Brunswick pharmacy pilot offer?

The pilot allowed pharmacists to manage chronic conditions, prescribe medications, and offer point-of-care testing for strep throat.

Why was the Blaine Higgs government's pharmacy pilot cancelled?

The pilot was ended by the Susan Holt government, with the Department of Health stating it didn't significantly impact health outcomes and that focus shifted to integrating pharmacists into collaborative care teams.

Did patients have other healthcare options during the N.B. pharmacy pilot?

Approximately 30% of patients involved in the pilot reported having no other healthcare options, indicating a significant need for the services provided.

Home / Health / Cancelled N.B. Pharmacy Pilot Showed High Demand

Cancelled N.B. Pharmacy Pilot Showed High Demand

21 Jan

•

Summary

About 30% of patients lacked other healthcare options.
Two-thirds of clients had a primary care provider.
Pilot offered chronic disease management and strep testing.

A report examining a past pilot program in New Brunswick has highlighted the demand for expanded pharmacy services. Data collected during the pilot indicated that approximately 30% of patients involved had no alternative healthcare options, underscoring the need for such initiatives. The program, launched in 2023, allowed pharmacists to manage chronic conditions and offer point-of-care testing for strep throat.

While two-thirds of clients reported having a primary care provider, this figure dropped significantly for those seeking care for chronic diseases. Pharmacist prescriptions were the most common intervention for these patients. Despite positive patient feedback and demonstrated feasibility, the pilot was terminated in 2025.

Health officials stated the decision was made to integrate pharmacists into collaborative care teams rather than fund a standalone pharmacy model. However, proponents argue the pilot showed significant benefits and potential for improving patient access to care, suggesting it should remain a consideration for future healthcare system planning.

Disclaimer: This story has been auto-aggregated and auto-summarised by a computer program. This story has not been edited or created by the Feedzop team.