Neighbourhood Pharmacy Association of Canada Welcomes Plan to Make Prescription Medications More Accessible for Seniors

TORONTO, March 20, 2018 /CNW/ - The Neighbourhood Pharmacy Association of Canada (Neighbourhood Pharmacies) welcomes today's announcement to invest in senior's health by the Ontario government, potentially reaching over 2.6 million seniors and their families by eliminating co-pays and deductibles for patients aged 65 and over.

Medications can considerably improve the quality of life of seniors and, when used properly in consultation with a pharmacist, can alleviate disability related symptoms, replace more invasive surgical procedures, and reduce hospitalization rates.

Ensuring Ontarians have timely access to the latest innovative medications and vaccinations through their community pharmacy must be a priority for all political parties as we head into the provincial election.

Justin J. Bates, Chief Executive Officer of Neighbourhood Pharmacies stated that "we have heard from Ontario seniors daily in our community pharmacies, since the introduction of OHIP+, about their desire to have the same benefits as youth. This announcement couldn't come soon enough, especially for those on fixed incomes, and we believe that seniors will benefit immediately when this policy is implemented."

About Neighbourhood Pharmacy Association of Canada:

The Neighbourhood Pharmacy Association of Canada represents the business of pharmacy and advocates for Canada's leading pharmacy brands who deliver high value, quality care to Canadians in all models including chain, banner, long-term care, specialty and independent pharmacies as well as grocery chains and mass merchandisers with pharmacies. Our focus is on improving the delivery of care environment for pharmacy, while fostering the right business conditions for business success.  By leveraging the over 10,000 points of care with pharmacies conveniently located in every neighbourhood across Canada, we aim to advance sustainable healthcare for all stakeholders.

SOURCE Neighbourhood Pharmacy Association of Canada