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COVID-19 Yukon Pharmacists Temporary Regulatory Changes

Thursday, 14 May 2020 21:50

The Government of Yukon has introduced temporary changes for pharmacists to ensure Yukoners can continue to safely access needed prescriptions during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Under these temporary changes, pharmacists will have new options for extending prescriptions and also a limited ability to initiate prescriptions. The temporary changes support Health Canada's March 2020 exemption under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act to maintain Yukoners' access to controlled substances for medical treatments. Minor changes to pharmacists' licensing requirements ensure pharmacists are supported in their work and Yukoners have better access to pharmacy services.

These new rules include:
Changes to how pharmacists can extend and initiate prescriptions;
Changes to support Health Canada's temporary exemption to the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act; and
Changes to some licensing requirements.

During the pandemic, the Government of Yukon believes that relying on pharmacists' expertise and discretion will better serve Yukoners. Pharmacists will use their professional discretion in deciding when to use the new practice options available to them. In making their decisions they will be guided by the need to ensure both public and patient safety.

These temporary changes are effective immediately. The changes related to Health Canada's exemptions will remain in effect until Health Canada advises, or until September 30, 2020.

Other changes will be in place until 30-days after Yukon's state of emergency is lifted or as otherwise directed by the Registrar.

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