A recent Toronto Star report highlighted a major issue in Ontario’s flu vaccine distribution system: a Ministry of Health data glitch that temporarily blocked pharmacies from ordering new flu doses. Although corrected quickly, the error exposed deeper flaws that pharmacists across the province—including us at Centrum Pharmacy—have been struggling with all season.
What Happened?
The Ministry’s system mistakenly showed many pharmacies as having more flu shots than they actually did. As a result, pharmacists received incorrect “delivery suspension” notices and were unable to restock. While the Ministry corrected the glitch and allowed for extra orders, the disruption added yet another hurdle during a critical vaccination period.
A System Already Under Strain
Ontario restricts pharmacies with higher reported “wastage percentages” from placing new orders. In theory, this helps control waste; in practice, it creates avoidable barriers:
- Pharmacies with delayed shipments end up receiving doses after peak flu demand, increasing waste.
- This inflated waste rate then restricts next year’s allocations.
- Pharmacists must file exception forms just to serve normal patient demand.
Some pharmacies end up with excess stock, while others are left short—despite sufficient provincial supply.
Pharmacists Speak Out
Justin Bates, CEO of the Ontario Pharmacists Association, noted that the system is not flexible, not on-demand, and not designed to match real community needs. Pharmacists like Fora Rahmati and Kristen Watt described delayed shipments, rigid caps, and constant denials of additional dose requests. The result is a system that slows vaccination efforts and frustrates both providers and patients.
Why This Matters for Public Health
More than 57% of Canadian adults received their flu shots at pharmacies last year. Pharmacies are the backbone of seasonal vaccination. When the distribution system fails, fewer people get protected, leading to:
- Higher hospitalization rates
- Increased strain on the healthcare system
- More preventable illness and death
Centrum Pharmacy’s Commitment
At Centrum Pharmacy, our priority is ensuring every patient receives Complete, Comprehensive, Caring, Connected Care—the 4 C’s that guide all our services. Despite system challenges, we continue to:
- Proactively manage vaccine allocations
- Monitor daily inventory
- Advocate for a more responsive, patient-centred provincial distribution model
- Ensure our community stays protected throughout flu season
Your health shouldn’t depend on paperwork delays or system glitches. We will continue to push for improvements while delivering the high-quality care you expect from Centrum Pharmacy and our partners at the Orleans Family Health Clinic (OFHC).
Book your Triple Protection appointment today at Centrum Pharmacy
Book your Triple Protection appointment today at Centrum Pharmacy and stay ahead of COVID-19, Flu, and RSV this season. Protect yourself, your family, and our community.
Come for the Convenience, Stay for the Service.
Caring for Your Family Since 1999
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.
