P.E.I. pharmacists want more duties for hypertension, blood pressure patients

P.E.I. pharmacists say they could be doing more to help people with hypertension or who need changes to blood pressure medication.

A doctor would still have to diagnose the condition, but the P.E.I. Pharmacists Association says pharmacists could do much of the drug oversight for a patient that doctors currently have to do.

"Pharmacists do tend to see patients five to seven times in a year," said Erin MacKenzie, executive director of the association.

"Folks do come in and speak to their pharmacists either about their blood pressure medications or about lifestyle modifications. Most pharmacies do have a service available onsite whereby they can get their blood pressure checked as well."

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Right now, pharmacists can do patient counselling on health modifications and the medications they are receiving, MacKenzie said, and can make recommendations, but they can't change or adjust therapy.

Allowed in other provinces

The association would like to see something similar to what is allowed in Alberta.

"Pharmacists can provide a full intervention on hypertension management for people, and that would include assessments, counselling of their cardiovascular risk, and their blood pressure control," said MacKenzie.

"They can review hypertensive medications, they can prescribe independently and titrate drug therapy. They can order lab testing to monitor and help follow up with the patient in the form of a follow-up consultation visit.

"The physician would still be doing the diagnosis of the condition, but the pharmacist could then monitor and follow up with the patient and help them along with this journey."

Legislative or regulatory changes required

The association hopes to show the province that having pharmacists take on these rolls will be more cost-effective, and more accessible for patients, especially with the aging population.

"We see pharmacists as a valuable part of our health care system. In recent years we have increased the scope of practice for pharmacists in the province, and we are certainly open to continue to explore other areas where pharmacist could make additional contributions to the health of Islanders," the Department of Health and Wellness said in a statement.

"Any changes to a scope of practice for a health care profession would require legislative or regulatory changes."

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