Ontario college warns pharmacies not to jump the gun on new tests

The Ontario College of Pharmacists is reminding pharmacies that proposed scope-of-practice expansions—expected as early as July 1—have not yet taken effect, warning some may be operating outside the law.On Wednesday, the college published a notice to members that it had become aware of pharmacies promoting or offering point-of-care tests outside their legal authority, including testing for Group A Streptococcus, more commonly known as strep.The regulator said it is still currently working with Ontario’s Ministry of Health to determine an implementation date for broader scope changes and ensure “necessary safeguards are in place.” Last week, Justin Bates, CEO of the Ontario Pharmacists Association, told the Canadian Healthcare Network he was “hopeful” the proposed changes the provincial college and government are considering could take effect as early as July 1. If approved, they would allow pharmacists to treat at least 14 additional minor ailments—including sore throat, shingles and swimmer’s ear—on top of the 19 conditions they can already assess and prescribe for in Ontario. Bates said the province appeared motivated to have the changes in place before the fall respiratory illness season.In its notice, the college reminded pharmacy professionals in Ontario that they can perform point-of-care tests for glucose, hemoglobin A1C, lipids and prothrombin time/INR under provincial lab regulations. They may also perform COVID-19 tests and immunologic pregnancy tests under existing exemptions., and are authorized to pierce the skin using a lancet-type device to collect blood samples for those approved tests.However, the college stressed pharmacists and technicians cannot currently administer strep tests or other tests beyond those listed—even if the test itself does not involve a controlled act, such as a throat or nasal swab. It also noted those permissions cannot be delegated by another healthcare professional.The college is urging pharmacies to review their services and promotional materials to ensure they align with current rules.

Ontario college warns pharmacies not to jump the gun on new tests

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