Shoppers Drug Mart has invoiced the Ontario government’s MedsCheck program $81.2 million for medication reviews during a two-year span, as some current and former pharmacists reported facing “unethical” corporate demands to achieve service targets. Data obtained by CBC News through a freedom of information request revealed that this amount for the fiscal years 2022-23 and 2023-24 surpasses the total billed for the same services over the previous six years by $8 million.
Aly Háji, a regulatory lawyer specializing in pharmacy health-care law, noted the noteworthy increase in MedsChecks despite revenue decline from services like COVID vaccinations. This rise underscores concerns about the commercialization of healthcare, where healthcare professionals face conflicting loyalties to both corporations and patients.
Medication reviews entail consultations between pharmacists and patients to review prescriptions and ensure appropriate medication usage. Eligibility for a medication review in Ontario includes individuals on at least three medications for chronic conditions, residents in licensed long-term care facilities, and those receiving diabetes treatment. Pharmacies can charge the government $60 for an annual review, $75 for diabetic patients, and $25 for follow-up sessions.
Shoppers Drug Mart, among other pharmacy chains, underscored patient care as a priority in their emailed statements. The eight pharmacy chains collectively billed the province $293.2 million for medication reviews from the fiscal year 2013-14 through October 2024. Shoppers accounted for 77% of this total at $225.3 million, with an average revenue per pharmacy of $183,800, exceeding that of other chains.
Despite the emphasis on patient care, concerns persist about corporate pressures faced by pharmacists. The Ontario College of Pharmacists reported ongoing investigations related to business pressures, with nearly half concerning MedsCheck. Calls for reforming the MedsCheck program to address these issues have been made by industry experts and associations.
The Ontario Pharmacy Association proposed reforms to the MedsCheck program, suggesting increased qualifying criteria for medication reviews and enhanced documentation requirements. The association met with the province to discuss these proposals, signaling a commitment to improving and modernizing the MedsCheck program. The Ministry of Health stated it is reviewing feedback from public consultations to enhance the program and support health outcomes.
