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Your Trusted Voice in Pharmacy Advocacy and Services
The B C Pharmacy Association (BCPhA) serves as the primary advocate for community pharmacists and pharmacies across British Columbia. With over 5,000 members, including pharmacists, pharmacy students, and pharmacy owners, the organization focuses on advancing the practice and business of community pharmacy. The BCPhA works closely with government bodies, regulatory agencies, and healthcare partners to expand the role of pharmacists in primary care. Through advocacy, policy development, and professional support, the association ensures pharmacists have the tools and recognition needed to deliver high-quality patient care.The organization also provides training, resources, and practice support to help pharmacists meet evolving healthcare demands. As a non-profit governed by the BC Societies Act, the BCPhA remains committed to enhancing the accessibility and effectiveness of pharmacy services for all British Columbians.
Services
Prescription Dispensing
Vaccinations
Minor Ailment Assessments
Opioid Agonist Treatment
Naloxone Distribution
Highlights and features
- We advocate for pharmacists' roles in primary healthcare policy.
- Our team provides practice support and training for pharmacists.
- We maintain partnerships with regulatory and healthcare organizations.
- Our organization has over 5,000 members across British Columbia.
- We offer resources to support pharmacy business operations.
Services
Prescription Dispensing
Community pharmacies in BC dispense over 100 million prescriptions annually, ensuring patients receive accurate medications and dosage instructions. Pharmacists review prescriptions for safety, check for drug interactions, and provide counseling on proper usage. This service remains a core function of community pharmacies across the province.
Vaccinations
Pharmacies offer vaccines for influenza, COVID-19, MMR, and other preventable diseases. Pharmacists administer immunizations to individuals aged four and older, with some vaccines available for free through provincial programs. This service expands access to critical public health protections in local communities.
Minor Ailment Assessments
Pharmacists assess and treat 21 minor ailments like cold sores, urinary tract infections, and allergic rhinitis. Patients can book appointments or walk in for evaluation, with pharmacists prescribing medications when appropriate. This service improves healthcare access for common conditions without requiring a doctor's visit.
Opioid Agonist Treatment
Pharmacies provide methadone, buprenorphine, and other medications for opioid use disorder treatment. Pharmacists monitor patients, dispense medications, and offer harm reduction strategies. This service supports recovery while reducing risks associated with unregulated opioid use across British Columbia.
Naloxone Distribution
Community pharmacies distribute free naloxone kits to reverse opioid overdoses. Pharmacists educate users on administration techniques and provide training through the Toward the Heart Program. This life-saving service targets individuals at risk of opioid poisoning and their support networks.
People
Geraldine Vance
Chief Executive Officer
Geraldine Vance leads the B C Pharmacy Association as CEO, overseeing strategic direction and advocacy efforts. With extensive experience in pharmacy policy, she represents pharmacists' interests in government discussions and healthcare initiatives across British Columbia.
Vince Lee
Deputy CEO, Member Services
Vince Lee serves as Deputy CEO and Executive Director of Member Services at BCPhA. He manages member support programs and coordinates practice resources to help pharmacists deliver quality patient care throughout the province.
Angie Gaddy
Executive Director, Communications
Angie Gaddy leads communications strategy for the B C Pharmacy Association. She develops public messaging, media relations, and member communications to promote pharmacy services and professional achievements across British Columbia.
Bryce Wong
Executive Director, Pharmacy Practice Support
Bryce Wong directs pharmacy practice support initiatives at BCPhA. He develops training programs and resources to enhance pharmacists' clinical skills and expand their roles in primary healthcare delivery.
Ann Johnston
Director, Pharmacy Practice Support
Ann Johnston manages pharmacy practice support projects for the association. She contributes to policy development and provides clinical expertise to advance pharmacists' scope of practice in community settings.
Questions
What services do BC pharmacists offer?
BC pharmacists provide prescription dispensing, vaccinations, minor ailment assessments, opioid agonist treatment, and naloxone distribution to support community healthcare needs.
How can I find a pharmacy with specific vaccines?
Use the BCPhA's pharmacy locator tool to find pharmacies offering MMR vaccines or other immunizations across British Columbia.
Can pharmacists prescribe medications?
Yes, since June 2023, BC pharmacists can prescribe for 21 minor ailments and contraception services after patient assessment.
What is Opioid Agonist Treatment (OAT)?
OAT is evidence-based treatment for opioid use disorder using medications like methadone or buprenorphine to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms.
Are naloxone kits available at pharmacies?
Yes, free naloxone kits are available at community pharmacies across BC for individuals at risk of opioid poisoning.
How does BCPhA support pharmacists?
The association provides advocacy, policy development, practice resources, and professional training to support pharmacists' roles in healthcare.
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