(Greg Bueckert, owner of Greg's Pharmacy. CHAT News file photo)

By Alex McCuaig

Drug Supply

Drug supplies good but caution required, say local pharmacists

Mar 18, 2020 | 12:16 PM

MEDICINE HAT – The Canadian Pharmacists Association is saying there are no known drug shortages being reported as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic but there has been chronic issues unrelated to the current situation over the years.

The association is encouraging Canadians not to stockpile medications or request early refills unless absolutely necessary.

Greg Bueckert, local owner of Greg’s Pharmacy, is encouraging individuals with prescriptions not to panic and that Alberta pharmacists have the ability to assist in getting refills in emergent situations.

“Any pharmacist in Alberta is allowed to do emergency prescribing as long as the situation justifies the medication needed,” said Bueckert. “It’s set up to take the pressure off the physicians, the walk-ins. We’ve been doing this for years now, we do it on a regular basis.”

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Bueckert says Medicine Hat pharmacies are situated fairly well in the short term and his pharmacy is following the Canadian Pharmacists Association’s recommendation in limiting prescriptions to a one-month period.

“We’ll be able to carry on that way rather than some people have a bunch and other people not having enough,” said Bueckert.

Rob Hozack, manager at Redcliff Pharmacy, says there has been a surge in requests for prescriptions as sick individuals at high risk look to stock up on medications while others who may have been laid off look to fill medications to ensure they are covered on company drug plans.

“I don’t believe there is a shortage of drugs, it’s it can’t get to where it needs at the speed it’s being requested. I’m certain it will short itself out in a week or two,” said Hozack.

He advised those looking to ensure a supply of medication to call ahead and work with the pharmacist to get needed medication in a timely fashion and possibly delivered.