Provincial Booking System For Appointments With Pharmacists Going Live

Beginning today, British Columbians can book an appointment to see a pharmacist through a new provincial online booking system.

“New hospitals and clinics will help meet people’s healthcare needs over the long term, but we are also taking action today to make it easier for people to access the care they need now,” said Premier David Eby.

“Starting tomorrow, people will be able to book an appointment online to see a pharmacist. This is a major step toward getting the health care you need, on your schedule, and in your neighbourhood.”

Pharmacists’ scope of practice has been expanded to allow them to prescribe for 21 minor ailments and contraceptives - to date, more than 25,000 people have seen a pharmacist for an assessment.

The new online booking system is similar to the Get Vaccinated system where people booked appointments to get their COVID-19 and influenza vaccinations. People can search for available appointment times at nearby pharmacies based on their minor ailment or contraceptive needs.

Appointments can continue to be made by calling or visiting a pharmacy. Walk-in service without an appointment is also available at some pharmacies.

In April, the province implemented universal coverage for more than 60 commonly used birth-control methods, including oral contraceptives, copper, and hormonal intrauterine devices (IUDs), implants, hormonal injections, and the morning-after pill.

British Columbia is the first province in Canada to provide free contraceptives.

The province says between April 1 and May 19, pharmacists dispensed contraceptives to more than 81,000 patients under the new policy at no cost.

For more information, visit Government of British Columbia.