Today, Centrum Pharmacy joins Canadians in paying tribute to our veterans and active service members who have dedicated their lives to the protection of our nation.

We encourage everyone to take a moment to remember those who gave everything for the freedoms we hold dear. Their legacy reminds us to strive for compassion and kindness in all that we do.

Thank you to all who serve and protect. Lest we forget.

Why do I need a flu vaccine every year?

A flu vaccine is needed every season for three reasons:  

First, a person’s immune protection from vaccination declines over time, so an annual vaccine is needed for optimal protection:

Second, because flu viruses are constantly changing, flu vaccines may be updated from one season to the next to protect against the viruses that research suggests may be most common during the upcoming flu season. 

Third, the flu vaccine also helps protect people close to you because you’re less likely to spread the flu to them if you’re vaccinated. 

This year’s Flu Vaccines are available at Centrum Pharmacy. Book an Appointment to get your flu shot today.

For the best protection, everyone 6 months and older should get vaccinated annually. 

Disclaimer: The medical information on this site is provided as an information resource only and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. This information does not substitute for professional diagnosis and treatment. Please do not initiate, modify, or discontinue any treatment, medication, or supplement solely based on this information. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider first. Full Disclaimer.

Canada’s pharmacare bill has officially become law, aiming to broaden access to essential medications like treatments for diabetes and contraception, which can cost Canadians hundreds or even thousands of dollars annually. However, provincial agreements are still being negotiated, meaning that coverage under Bill C-64 will only be available in provinces that finalize deals with the federal government.

The legislation promises universal access to most contraception and diabetes medications, with plans to expand the list of covered treatments over time. It introduces universal first-dollar coverage, meaning that the government—funded by Canadian taxpayers—will cover costs upfront, potentially saving insurance companies millions.

For diabetes, the plan covers treatments like insulin for Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, metformin, and other medications for Type 2 diabetes. Contraception coverage includes oral contraceptives, and morning-after pills. However, it’s important to note that many of these medications were already covered by provincial governments or private insurance for most Canadians. The real beneficiaries of this new plan may not be individuals but private insurance companies that will no longer have to bear the cost of these medications. It remains to be seen whether insurance premiums will decrease, though corporate profits are likely to rise.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has called on provinces and territories to start negotiating pharmacare deals as soon as possible. These agreements are crucial to the plan’s implementation, although it’s puzzling that legislation was passed without first negotiating with provincial governments and pharmacists—the very key parties responsible for implementing it. Despite these concerns, this marks the beginning of Canada’s journey toward a universal pharmacare system. The government plans to convene an expert panel within the next month to outline the next steps, with recommendations due within a year.

Here are two things you might want to ask your MP:

1. Ensure pharmacists are included in the expert panel.
2. Advocate for the government (and Canadian taxpayers) to be the “Payer of Last Resort,” not the “Payer of First-Dollar Coverage.” This would mean the pharmacare plan would only “top up” existing coverage or provide coverage to those without any, rather than offering blanket coverage to everyone, regardless of their current insurance status (which for most Canadians is already robust).

As pharmacists, we support universal coverage for essential medications but only in a way that is financially sustainable and fair to taxpayers. Right now, the biggest beneficiaries of this plan aren’t patients with diabetes or women needing contraception (since many already have coverage)—the main winners are the insurance companies, who will no longer have to pay for these medications.

So, what’s wrong with the federal government being in charge of this pharmacare plan and paying first?

1. It’s not within their constitutional jurisdiction.
2. The provinces likely won’t agree, and much like the daycare strategy, we’ll see a patchwork of plans across the country, especially in Quebec.
3. The costs will likely become unsustainable, and as expenses rise, the plan may eventually cover fewer people and fewer medications to stay within budget.

Instead, the pharmacare plan should:

1. Be federally funded but provincially administered, like current health and drug plans.
2. Act as the “Payer of Last Resort,” covering only those without existing insurance.
3. Focus on essential medications not normally covered by provincial or private plans, such as orphan drugs and non-formulary medications.
4. Involve pharmacists in making sure that the plan remains relevant, cost effective and sustainable for the Canadian Taxpayer and not simply become an expensive superfluous piece of bureaucratic political propaganda.

The medical information on this site is provided as an information resource only and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. This information does not substitute for professional diagnosis and treatment. Please do not initiate, modify, or discontinue any treatment, medication, or supplement solely based on this information. Always seek the advice of your health care provider first. Full Disclaimer

On this World Mental Health Day, Centrum Pharmacy stands with the global movement to prioritize mental well-being. Your mental health affects every aspect of your life, from physical health to relationships and productivity. We’re here to support your journey with resources and products that help improve your mental wellness.

Consider these helpful products:

• Supplements: Vitamins like B-complex and magnesium can support your nervous system and mood.
• Over-the-Counter Sleep Aids: Poor sleep can take a toll on mental health. Ask our pharmacists about safe sleep aids to help you rest better.
• Relaxation Products: From herbal teas to aromatherapy oils, we offer a range of products to help you de-stress and unwind.

Centrum Pharmacy is more than a place to fill prescriptions—it’s a resource for supporting your mental and emotional health. Our team is here to help guide you to the best products for your needs.

Disclaimer: The medical information on this site is provided as an information resource only and is not to be used or relied upon for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. This information does not substitute for professional diagnosis and treatment. Please do not initiate, modify, or discontinue any treatment, medication, or supplement solely based on this information. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider first. Full Disclaimer.

Happy Thanksgiving from the Centrum Family!

Pharmacy Technician Day is a special occasion to recognize the vital role pharmacy technicians play in our healthcare system. These dedicated professionals work behind the scenes to ensure that patients receive the medications and care they need in a safe and timely manner. Whether it’s managing medication inventory, preparing prescriptions, or assisting pharmacists with clinical tasks, pharmacy technicians are essential to the smooth operation of pharmacies and the broader healthcare industry.

Pharmacy technicians are often the bridge between pharmacists and patients, ensuring that prescriptions are accurately filled, properly labeled, and delivered with care. Their expertise allows pharmacists to focus on patient care, consultations, and complex clinical responsibilities. In community pharmacies, hospitals, and long-term care facilities, pharmacy technicians play a key role in enhancing medication safety and supporting positive patient outcomes.

A Day to Recognize Their Contributions

Pharmacy Technician Day is an opportunity for patients, healthcare professionals, and organizations to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of pharmacy technicians. It’s a day to thank them for their contributions, not only to the pharmacy but to the overall healthcare ecosystem. Without their skills and commitment, many of the processes that ensure patient safety would be impossible to achieve at the high standards expected.

At Centrum Pharmacy, we are proud to work with an outstanding team of pharmacy technicians who exemplify the highest standards of professionalism and dedication. Their meticulous attention to detail and unwavering commitment to patient care help us deliver the excellent service our community has come to trust. On this Pharmacy Technician Day, we want to take a moment to thank our technicians for their hard work and contribution to the health and well-being of our patients.

If you visit your local pharmacy today, take a moment to thank a pharmacy technician. A simple “thank you” can go a long way in recognizing their efforts and showing your appreciation for the care they provide behind the scenes. Pharmacy Technician Day is not just a day to celebrate their achievements—it’s also a reminder of the crucial role they play in our healthcare system every single day.