Sherif Guorgui
co-CEO, Chief Strategy, Stakeholder & Government Relations Officer
Pharmacist Awareness Month is a good opportunity to celebrate the valuable quality care that pharmacists across Canada provide to patients each and every day of the year.
Wherever you are in Canada, independent pharmacies matter. Whether in small or large cities, or in rural areas, one thing is certain: independent pharmacies everywhere are playing a unique and vital role in building healthier communities.
We are on the front lines in furthering Canadians’ desire for accessible healthcare in a fiscally responsible environment. And, there are still many more opportunities for independent pharmacies to deliver even greater efficiencies for Canada’s health system. With the continually increased constraints on the healthcare system, independent community pharmacies are well positioned to play a bigger role in ending hallway healthcare and helping Canadians lead healthier lives.
We are on the front lines in furthering Canadians’ desire for accessible healthcare in a fiscally responsible environment.
In addition to improving health outcomes and creating much-needed efficiencies in the healthcare system, independent pharmacies play an important role in contributing to overall economic development. With nearly 5,500 small-business pharmacies across Canada, the independent pharmacy sector provides significant contributions to GDP, income and jobs creation. Many of those pharmacies are open long hours, and on the weekends, to offer their patients convenient, timely access to medications, certain vaccinations and a wide range of clinical services.
As the government continues to look for effective ways to maintain the sustainability of the healthcare system, it is paramount to include independent pharmacies as part of the solution.
