Since expanding the scope of practice for pharmacists and making contraceptives free, the province says nearly 300,000 people have benefited.
“People in B.C. are feeling squeezed by everyday costs,” said Premier David Eby in a release.
“That’s why we made contraceptives free and began allowing pharmacists to prescribe medications for minor ailments like rashes, infections and allergies. This has relieved pressure on clinics and ERs, and saved British Columbians hundreds of dollars on contraceptives every year. This is just one way we’re making health care more accessible and making life more affordable.”
More than 188,000 people received free contraceptives. Provincial officials said this has saved individuals around $300 a year for hormonal pills and IUDs previously had an upfront cost of $400.
According to the province, more than 132,000 people saw a pharmacist about a minor ailment.
They said this has helped patients get quicker care, especially those who don’t have a family doctor.
– Files from Josiah Spyker, My East Kootenay Now