In Parts 1–3 of our series, we explored:
- What patient steering is and how insurers use PPNs to direct prescriptions.
- How it affects GLP-1 patients, delaying care and fragmenting treatment.
- Why this is part of a wider pattern of insurer overreach threatening independent pharmacy care.
Now, it’s time to talk about action — what patients, providers, and policymakers can do to protect your right to choose your pharmacy.
How Patients Can Protect Their Rights
- Know your plan: Ask your employer or insurer if your benefits are tied to a PPN or corporate pharmacy network.
- Assert your choice: You have the right to fill prescriptions at the pharmacy you trust. Insurers should not block coverage or make it harder if you choose differently.
- Ask for advocacy: Pharmacists can support you in navigating insurance rules, filing appeals, and communicating with insurers.
Policy and Regulatory Change
The Canadian Pharmacists Association and patient advocates are calling for:
- Restrictions on PPNs to prevent insurers from steering patients
- Transparent, fair audit practices for pharmacies
- Conflict-of-interest safeguards when PBMs or insurers own pharmacies
- National guidance from regulatory bodies like NAPRA to protect patients across provinces
Centrum Pharmacy supports these initiatives. We remain independent to ensure that your health and continuity of care always come first, not insurer profits.
Takeaway: Your prescription is your choice. Stay informed, advocate for yourself, and rely on your trusted pharmacist to guide you through insurance challenges.
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