S A S K A T C H E W A N P H A R M A C E U T I C A L A S S O C I A T I O N

NEWSLETTERNEWSLETTER

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WHAT’S INSIDE?• Council Highlights

• Faxback Summaries

• Manufacturing andCompounding Drug Products

• On Your Behalf – RBSP

• You Asked Us

• From the Desk of the Dean

700 – 4010 Pasqua St., Regina, SK S4S 7B9 • (306) 584-2292 • Fax (306) 584-9695 • E-mail: saskpharm@sk.sympatico.ca Volume 21 Number 4 October 2000

REGULATORY CHANGES FOR BENZODIAZEPINES AND RELATED DRUGSthe prescriber, securing inventoryagainst loss or theft, reporting losses),destruction of inventory, and emer-gency supply (i.e. to/from pharmaciesand/or hospitals) are similar toNarcotic and Controlled Drugs.

In response to some common questions:1) Written and verbal prescriptions are

permitted;2) Written and verbal repeats are per-

mitted if the prescriber indicates aspecific number of refills;

3) “Targeted Substances” are not subjectto the Triplicate Prescription Programat this time;

4) Prescriptions can be filed in theregular (i.e. Schedule F drug) files, andretained for at least two years from thedate of last fill or refill;

5) When refilling, a copy of the prescrip-tion filed in sequence as to date andnumber is NOT needed as long as therefill is recorded in the patient profile;and,

6) The following corrects the informationprovided to pharmacy managersregarding prescription transfers. In ourearlier communication we advised that“Targeted Substances are to be treatedlike Schedule F Drugs except that: …A prescription may only be transferredONCE”. While the wording of theregulations differs, the interpretation isthe same in that a prescription for aSchedule F Drug or a Targeted Sub-stance may only be transferred once.For example, when Pharmacist Atransfers a prescription to PharmacistB, Pharmacist A cannot transfer theprescription again, nor can PharmacistA dispense the prescription. Thus,Pharmacist A must cancel or void theprescription in the records. Uponreceipt of the transfer, Pharmacist Btreats it like a new prescription, andmay dispense it no more times thanthe number of repeats remaining.

For hospital practice, we circulated aHealth Canada guidance document tohospital pharmacy managers. In responseto several inquiries, we interpret theregulations and the guidelines to meanthat “disposition” refers to the distribu-tion system. Thus, hospitals are notrequired to record the administration ofdoses of Targeted Substances to patients.

Several other questions are un-resolved, but have been submitted toHealth Canada. Upon receipt of theirreply, we will provide members with thisadditional information. We have alsoprepared an update for the PharmacyReference Manual.

Targeted Substances:• all benzodiazepines except for:

– Flunitrazepam which is an illicitsubstance; and

– Clozapine and olanzapine, whichcontinue to be listed in Schedule Fto the Food and Drug Regulations

• Clotiazepam• Ethchlorvynol• Ethinamate• Fencamfamin• Mazindol• Mefenorex• Meprobamate• Methprylon• Pipradol

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Congratulations to Dean & Sue Bradleyon the birth of their first child

Benjamin DeanMonday, September 25, 2000.

Our sincere best wishes to theBradley family.

Effective September 1, 2000, mostbenzodiazepines and some other psycho-tropic drugs became legally classified as“Targeted Substances” under the Con-trolled Drugs and Substances Act (see listbelow). To meet international obliga-tions, most of the controls similar to thosefor Narcotic and Controlled Drugs willoccur at the import, export and licenseddealer (i.e. pharmaceutical manufactureror wholesale) levels. That is why whole-sales and manufacturers have advised thatthey are treating these substances asNarcotic and Controlled Drugs. There-fore, we encourage members to cooperatein meeting their regulatory obligations.

However, the same analogy does notapply to controls affecting pharmacists.

Generally in community practiceunder existing federal regulation,“Targeted Substances” are to be treatedlike Schedule F Drugs, except:1) Receipts of inventory must be recorded

in the Narcotic Register, or invoicesavailable to substantiate receipt;

2) Repeats are permitted if less than oneyear has elapsed since the date theprescription was issued;

3) Repeats are NOT permitted where theprescriber has specified intervalsbetween refills and the interval hasnot expired; and,

4) Provisions for security (i.e. verifying

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S A S K A T C H E W A N P H A R M A C E U T I C A L A S S O C I A T I O N

SPHA COUNCIL 2000-01

Division 1 PresidentJanet Bradshaw 432-4526 ResP.O. Box 40 432-4405 FaxDysart SK S0G 1H0

Division 2Curtis Loucks 786-6636 BusLoucks Medi-Health 786-6646 Fax

Pharmacy115 – 41 Broadway WestYorkton SK S3N 0L6

Division 3Randy Wiser 776-0105 BusShoppers Drug Mart #401 763-9453 Fax2995 – 2nd Avenue WestPrince Albert SK S6V 5V5

Division 4 Vice-PresidentDoug Spitzig 373-5556 BusShoppers Drug Mart #416 374-2654 Fax3510 – 8th Street EastSaskatoon SK S7H 0W6

Division 5 Executive MemberGeorge Furneaux 777-8044 BusShoppers Drug Mart #425 777-8047 Fax4602 Albert StreetRegina SK S4V 2V9

Division 6 Past-PresidentMichael Davis 778-8821 BusPioneer Co-op Drugs #4 778-3424 Fax1150 Central Avenue NorthSwift Current SK S9H 0G1

Division 7Gary Groves 882-3636 BusRosetown Co-op Pharmacy 882-4041 Fax401 Main StreetRosetown SK S0L 2V0

Division 8Brenda Schuster 585-2437 Res1 Taggart Place 766-2405 FaxRegina SK S4S 4G3

Ex-OfficioDennis Gorecki 966-6328 BusDean 966-6377 FaxCollege of Pharmacy & NutritionUniversity of Saskatchewan110 Science PlaceSaskatoon SK S7N 5C9

Public MembersMay Bridgewater, ReginaKay Fergusson, Saskatoon

COUNCIL MEETING – SEPTEMBER 13-14, 2000 – SASKATOON

September 13-14, 2000 marked thefirst Council meeting conducted underthe Policy Governance Model. Asdescribed in the June 2000 issue of theNewsletter, this model focuses Council’sactivities in policy development andperformance evaluation. The implemen-tation of the model went smoothly due toCouncil’s work in the development of thestructure over the last year.

A feature of Policy Governance islinking with the ownership to obtain in-formation for decision-making. Council isentrusted by the public to govern andlead the SPhA. Thus, Council discussedoptions for reaching out to their owner-ship, the public, to increase their knowl-edge and to advise on their satisfactionwith pharmacy services.

Council approved the final draft defi-nition of The End “a self-regulatedprofession” referenced in the MissionStatement for the Association (pleaserefer to the last issue of this newsletter).“A self-regulated profession” is furtherinterpreted to include, but not limited to:

Under authority of the Act, SPhA isestablished as a not-for-profit democraticorganization to regulate the profession,pharmacies and conditions of sale fordrugs. SPhA is accountable to the publicthrough the Minister of Health for theproper fulfillment of this mandate.Council is the chief policy making bodyand the majority of Councillors arepharmacists. The profession, throughthe membership, employs democraticaccountability concepts to ensure thatCouncil fulfills the obligations of theAssociation. These concepts includeexclusive membership to pharmacists, anelected Council, and general meetings.Thus, through governance, pharmacistscontrol how the Association meets itsmandate.One of the “Ends” that Council

monitors is “public policy supportinghealth”. Council agreed that the sale oftobacco products in pharmacies does notsupport public health and agreed tocollaborate with government to legislatean equitable resolution to this subject.

Council approved the proposed prior-ity and resource allocation framework toguide budgeting as follows:

• Highest Priority:public safety;standardizedpharmacyservices

• Second Priority: aself-regulated profes-sion; positive professional image

• Third Priority: public policy support-ing health; optimum public use ofpharmacy servicesCouncil reviewed minutes from a

meeting of the RBSP Information Tech-nology Task Force and a representativefrom SHIN. SHIN anticipates that allpharmacies will be linked on theunsecured e-mail system by Novemberfollowing the pilot expected to begin inOctober. This will allow e-mail trans-missions between pharmacies, the SPhAoffice and the Drug Plan and ExtendedBenefits Branch of Saskatchewan Health.The planned testing of the second phase,secured e-mail for personal health infor-mation, is scheduled for February.

The Triplicate Prescription ProgramPhase 1 network solution has been com-pleted. The network capability of receipt,storage and retrieval of information onthe existing panel of formulary drugs forDrug Plan beneficiaries only, will beoperational the morning of October 15,2000. Pharmacists are asked to continueto mail the College copy for all otherbeneficiaries. Work on expanding thenetwork to incorporate all beneficiaries isongoing with the proposed timeline ofmid 2001.

The Academic Detailing Program,piloted by the Saskatoon District HealthBoard has been adopted as a model forother health districts. Four health districtsare currently exploring the expansion ofthis program and two other districts havesubmitted official invitations for futureinclusion. The program has been success-ful due to the utilization of both hospitaland community pharmacists “seeking todevelop a provincial program that isexcellent, useful, objective, unbiased andefficient”.

Saskatchewan Health has yet tocontact the Association regarding theirproposed review of human resourceissues in the provincial health care

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system. Council wasinformed that CPhA’sapplication for a federalgrant to conduct a study

of this issue has beenapproved. We will update

members on the findings of this studywhen the results are available.

Council continues to pursue legislativechanges, to authorize pharmacists dis-pensing without a prescription. Prior tosubmitting regulatory bylaw amendmentsto the Minister of Health, we havenotified the College of Physicians andSurgeons of Saskatchewan and theSaskatchewan Medical Association ofour intent. At time of printing we havereceived written notice from CPSSadvising of their support. SMA supportssome aspects of our position. Councilapproved for submission to the Minister,amendments to the Drug SchedulesRegulations, 1997 and to Bylaw 14.13 toenable a pharmacist to sell a Schedule 1drug without having received a prescrip-tion therefor, to a member of the publicwhen:a) a formal delegation or transfer of

function agreement exists with apractitioner;

b) under emergency or urgent circum-stances when the pharmacist deems itto be in the best interest of the patientto provide:(i) when the practitioner is notavailable to authorize the prescription,a reasonable quantity to allow suffi-cient time for the patient to consultwith the practitioner or for thepharmacist to obtain the prescription;or,(ii) a reasonable quantity sufficient tomeet the patient’s needs when a diag-nosis or assessment by a practitioner isnot required, and the pharmacist isable to assess the patient’s needs, or,

c) when the patient is on chronic therapyand is stabilized on the drug, a reason-able quantity to allow sufficient timefor the patient to consult with thepractitioner or for the pharmacist toobtain the prescription.We will inform members of the status

of these amendments throughout theprocess.

REGULATORY BYLAW AMENDMENTThe following bylaw amendment became effective September 1, 2000

upon publication in the Saskatchewan Gazette.14.3.3.6 Notwithstanding subclauses 14.3.3.5(a) and (b), Council mayapprove a non-permanent barrier that permits complete security duringperiods of closure to those products restricted to a lock and leave enclosureoffered for sale on shelves outside that enclosure.The purpose is to allow consideration of barriers other than physical

partitioning enclosures as acceptable lock and leave enclosures. As specifiedin the bylaws, a permit holder must first obtain approval of the Registrar byapplying in writing, specifying the physical layout of the closure facilities.

PHARMACY PERMIT AMENDMENTSPharmacy permit amendments are mandatory for changes in:

• pharmacy manager,• ownership,• directors,• trading name,• address, and• lock and leave hours.

It is prudent that the pharmacy manager or proprietor contact the Associa-tion office as soon as any change is contemplated, to determine the permitimplications. The information is to be provided to the office not later thanfive days prior to the change.

The pharmacy manager is the licensed pharmacist accountable to SPhAand maintains the responsibility for that pharmacy until the amended permitis approved. Refer to The Pharmacy Act, 1996, Section 20 and “Responsi-bilities of a Pharmacy Manager” in the Pharmacy Reference Manual.

The pharmacy permit will be approved the date all requirements are met;a permit will not be backdated. Failure to comply with the Act may result indisciplinary action.

DRUG SCHEDULE BYLAW AMENDMENTSThe following regulatory bylaw amendments became effective upon

publication in the Saskatchewan Gazette September 1, 2000.

Schedule III – Pharmacy Only Nonprescription Drugs• Meclizine and its salts (when sold in concentrations of 25 mg or less per

dosage unit)This means that sale of this drug is restricted as pharmacy only, non-

prescription drugs, which can be sold from the public access area of theprofessional services area.

Unscheduled• Ibuprofen and its salts (in strengths of 200mg or less per solid dosage form

or per 5 ml liquid).The drug is now unscheduled and may be sold from any retail outlet.

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S A S K A T C H E W A N P H A R M A C E U T I C A L A S S O C I A T I O N

SASKATCHEWAN FORMULARYCOMMITTEE BULLETIN #80 –NOVEMBER 1999“Special Review of Antibiotics”

The Saskatchewan FormularyCommittee, assisted by the DrugQuality Assessment Committee, inconsultation with provincial infectiousdisease experts, has completed areview of antibiotics currently coveredunder the Drug Plan. The focus was onappropriate use of appropriate agentsand also considered concerns aboutthe development of resistance specificto Saskatchewan/Canadian popula-tions. As a result of the review,changes were made to the ExceptionDrug Status criteria for some anti-biotics. A wall chart (this chart wasprovided by Loren Regier for the ABXproject) was included with theBulletin outlining antibiotic, strength/formulation, flavours, pediatric dose,dosing interval, usual maximum dailydose, dosages, cost and commentsregarding EDS criteria.

Included with that mailing was acopy of “Selection of AntimicrobialDrugs”, the findings of a SpecialReview Committee on Antibioticspublished in November 1999. Thisreport, in chart format, lists antibioticchoices for common infectiousdiseases.

This example of a drug use manage-ment strategy focusing on appropriateantibiotic use is a resource that may beuseful for clinical presentations toprofessional groups in your community.A limited number of wall charts areavailable through the Drug Plan.Should you require information or acopy of this bulletin please contactthe Drug Plan at 787-3315 or 1-800-665-7578.

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PHARMACTION PROGRAM EXPANDS INTO DOCTORS’ OFFICES:A FIRST FOR CANADA

PharmAction, now in its fifth year ofoperation, is an effective and popularpatient information program distributedin 3,500 pharmacies across Canada.

The program’s success has promptedsuch a positive response from physiciansthat it is now being distributed in over1,000 doctors’ offices, where it is knownas MedAction. For the first time, exactlythe same information is now available inCanadian pharmacies and doctors’ offices.

PharmAction provides patients withthe facts they need to know about a widevariety of topics, including acne, anti-biotics, asthma, COPD, cholesterol,congestive heart failure, diabetes, gastricproblems, hypertension, migraine, preg-nancy, and your pharmacist. Its unique

interactive format helps them focus onthe key questions they should be asking,and helps them understand such impor-tant treatment issues as the efficacy oftheir treatment, barriers to treatment, andexisting or potential problems such as sideeffects and allergies.

Covering such topics as the goals andexpectations of pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatment, and theproper use of medication, PharmActionprovides patients with concise, relevantinformation developed in cooperationwith Medical Societies and Public HealthAssociations.

For more information, call 1-800-363-5634.

SPhA STAFFPaddy Dodge, Administrative AssistantJeanne Eriksen, Assistant RegistrarPat Guillemin, Administrative AssistantRay Joubert, Registrar-TreasurerCheryl Klein, Administrative AssistantTamarha Robbins, Administrative

Assistant/ReceptionistWayne Wurtz, Field Officer

MANUFACTURING AND COMPOUNDING DRUG PRODUCTSIN CANADA

To: Associations

I am pleased to inform you that the final version of the Policy Framework for

Manufacturing and Compounding Drug Products in Canada is now available on the

Therapeutic Products Programme (TPP) Web site at: www.hc-sc.gc.ca/hpb-dgps/

therapeut and can be accessed in the ISSUED section of the POLICIES page. The

Framework identifies and addresses issues related to compounding and

manufacturing of drugs in Canada.

This Policy Framework was developed by the Therapeutic Products Programme

in collaboration with the Canadian Society of Hospital Pharmacists (CSHP) and

the National Association of Pharmacy Regulatory Authorities (NAPRA).

Yours sincerely,

Robert G. Peterson, M.C., PhD., MPH

A/Director General, TPP, Health Canada

Health Canada

Excerpt from the document Manufacturingand Compounding Drugs in Canada:

Distinction between manufacturingand compounding is made as follows:

Manufacturing activities are subject toregulation under the Food and Drugs Actand Regulations, GMP guidelines andinspection by Health Canada, whilecompounding activities are conducted bya pharmacist or practitioner within theprofessional practice of pharmacy ormedicine, regulated by provincial regula-

tory authorities in accordance with guide-lines and standards that ensure the qualityand safety of pharmaceuticals they com-pound. Compounded products are pre-pared for individual patients, within aspecific population (refer to 4.0, defini-tions, established pharmacist-patient-prescriber relationship) pursuant to, or inanticipation of, a prescription within anestablished pharmacist-patient-prescriberrelationship.

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S A S K A T C H E W A N P H A R M A C E U T I C A L A S S O C I A T I O N

FAXBACK! SUMMARIES

FaxBack! # 11This FaxBack! included with the May

2000 issue requested volunteers to serveon committees to impact on how theprofession achieves the self-regulatorymandate of protection of the public whilemaintaining high professional standardsthat Pharmacy enjoys. Committeemembers receive travel, accommodationand meal expenses as well as an incomereplacement per diem for time spent onAssociation business.

To those members who have respond-ed to the FaxBack! we will be reviewingthe Committees in the coming monthsand will contact you thereafter. TheAssociation appreciates your support.

FaxBack! # 12Centralized N & G DrugPharmacy Depot

At the May meeting of The CrimesAgainst Pharmacy Task Force, varioussolutions to crimes associated withpharmacy were discussed. Our summerstudent, Myla Bulych, was directed toresearch different possibilities put forwardby the Task Force.

One of her research assignments wasto explore the concept of having a secure,centralized pharmacy or depot forNarcotic and Controlled Drugs storage.This concept has been attempted in otherjurisdictions. The Task Force requestedthe members comments via a FaxBack!.7% of the practising membershipresponded.1. Do you think that narcotics and con-

trolled drugs are the main cause ofsecurity issues/problems?69% Yes31% No

Examples cited for security problemsare: tobacco, alcohol(where sold) cash,other drugs on premises, vandalism,shoplifting, lack of punishment forcriminals, lack of adequate health/judicial support for the treatment ofdrug related addictions.

2. Would it be acceptable to have awaiting period for delivery of narcoticand controlled drugs?30% Yes70% NoIf yes, how long?Within the hour 39%1-4 hours 46%24 hours 15% (Unless it is

an emergency.)3. Would you be in favor of a local off-

site narcotic storage depot from whichyou could draw narcotics as needed tofill at your location?25% of respondents answered yes.Few commented, but those who did

offered many reasons why this would notwork, mostly for financial reasons. Othersstated that this would only be moving therisk to another person or location; theunderlying problem would still be there.

The 75% of respondents whoanswered no, there was no question as tohow they felt. Responses ranged frompassing the risk to others, financialimplications, patient accessibility forneeded medications, difficulties withdelivery system, and poor customerservice. Other comments were of a moredirect negative nature.

The information will be reviewed bythe Task Force as they develop theirrecommendations.

The FaxBack! has proven to be avaluable tool in our communicationsstrategy. Thank you to all those who haveresponded, the information provided hasbeen invaluable. Not only what you havesaid, but what you have not said alsoprovides useful information to theAssociation.

FaxBack # 10The FaxBack! sent with the March

2000 newsletter focused on Crimesagainst Pharmacy.

176 (16% of our practising member-ship) responded to the FaxBack! Respon-dents were asked to provide informationfrom their experience over the past threeyears. The magnitude of the problem isobvious, the solution is not.

Of the respondents:83% Have been subjected to verbal

harassment from a customer39% Have felt physically threatened62% Practice in a pharmacy that has had

a break and enter77% Practice in a pharmacy that has had

a forgery80% Practice in a pharmacy that has had

a robbery (includes grab and runthefts/ shoplifting)

29% Practice in a pharmacy that has hadan armed robbery

When asked “How often do you haveconcerns about your physical safety atwork?” 40% responded, “I rarely thinkabout my safety.”

The Crimes Against Pharmacy TaskForce will be reviewing these statistics aswell as the comments received from themembers when determining their nextsteps.

INJECTION DRUG USE AND HIV/AIDS: LEGAL AND ETHICAL ISSUESThe HIV/AIDS Program, Policy and

Coordination Division of Health Canadafunded the Canadian HIV/AIDS LegalNetwork to examine the legal and ethicalissues surrounding HIV/AIDS andinjection drug use.

Seven priority issues have beenanalyzed, ranging:• from the impact of the current legal

status of drugs and drug use on efforts

to prevent HIV infection amonginjection drug users,

• to is it legal and ethical to withholdantiretroviral drugs from HIV-positivedrug users,

• to the exclusion of drug users fromclinical trials involving HIV/AIDSdrugs,

• to legal and ethical considerations thatshould be taken into account when

implementing needle exchange andmethadone maintenance programs.This report and a series of 11 infor-

mation sheets on the same subject can beretrieved at the Web site of the CanadianHIV/AIDS Legal Network atwww.aidslaw.ca or ordered through theCanadian HIV/AIDS Clearinghouse.Phone: 613 725-3434 / Fax: 613 725-9826

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S A S K A T C H E W A N P H A R M A C E U T I C A L A S S O C I A T I O NS A S K A T C H E W A N P H A R M A C E U T I C A L A S S O C I A T I O N

On Your Behalf ...REPRESENTATIVE BOARD OF

SASKATCHEWAN PHARMACISTS2000-01

Division 1Teri Ruecker 334-2424 BusP.O. Box 254 334-2539 FaxAbernethy SK S0A 0A0

Division 2Guy Nobert 783-9896 BusShoppers Drug Mart 783-5655 Fax106 – 277 Broadway AvenueYorkton SK S3N 1G1

Division 3 Executive MemberSyl Gayowski 922-1118 Bus969 Sanderson Crescent 763-8118 FaxPrince Albert SK S6V 6L2

Division 4Shelley Woloshyn 665-6999 Bus2530 Clarence Avenue S. 665-6955 FaxSaskatoon SK S7J 1M4

Division 5 ChairPenny Thomson 777-8066 Bus3628 Tudor Place 777-8171 FaxRegina SK S4V 2S9

Division 6Rod Amaya 642-7370 BusP.O. Box 165 642-3157 FaxAssiniboia SK S0H 0B0

Division 7 Vice ChairBill Gerla 682-2541 BusP.O. Box 576 682-5977 FaxHumboldt SK S0K 2A0

Division 8Linda Sulz 766-2940 Bus3026 Gordon Road 766-2405 FaxRegina SK S4S 2T8

StaffDean Bradley, Director, Member AffairsTamarha Robbins, Administrative Assistant

NEXT RBSP MEETINGThe Board will meet next onDecember 8, 2000 in Regina. Tohave your issues addressed at anupcoming meeting, please contactyour Board member or Dean Bradleyat 306-359-RBSP (7277) or e-maildean.bradley@sk.sympatico.ca

BOARD HIGHLIGHTS

RBSP Plans to Incorporateas a Separate Organization

The Representative Board ofSaskatchewan Pharmacists was created inJuly 1998 as an independent (but notautonomous) division of the Saskatch-ewan Pharmaceutical Association to serveas an advocacy or self-interest group forSaskatchewan pharmacists. The Board isdirectly accountable to the membershipthrough an elected Board of Directors.However, under the current structure, asrecommended by the Reorganization TaskForce, the RBSP is not its own legalentity. Consequently, the RBSP operatesunder several limitations, such as no legalauthority to enter into contracts, and, onan annual basis the SPhA Council mustapprove the RBSP budget and activities.

The Board is actively examining theoptions available to become a legal entityof its own, and therefore, move out fromunderneath the SPhA umbrella. Implica-tions to the membership are not known asthis point, but we will keep you informedof our progress leading up to a vote toseparate at the 2001 RBSP AnnualGeneral Meeting.

Liability Insurance forDirectors of Pharmacies

In the August 2000 issue of On YourBehalf, we advised how pharmacists whoare directors of corporations may be heldfinancially responsible for certain liabil-ities should the pharmacy at which theywork declare bankruptcy. The Boardheard a presentation from John Lothmanof the CPBA regarding the availability ofinsurance that protects directors againstany liability, except where the liabilityrelates to the director’s failure to acthonestly and in good faith with a view tothe best interests of the corporations.

The product is called a PersonalUmbrella Liability Policy. This policywill provide $1,000,000. coverage fordirectors or officers (higher limits are

available). Although this product is nota CPBA package, it is available throughJohn Lothman 1-800-667-9650.

Pharmacist ShortageThe Board considered a proposal from

the Canadian Association of Chain DrugStores (CACDS) to jointly fund a pharm-acist manpower analysis in Saskatchewan.The Board will investigate the CPhAinitiative regarding the pharmacistshortage to see if it meets the needs ofSaskatchewan pharmacists before makinga decision on the CACDS proposal.

District MeetingsThe Board considered its participation

in the Fall 2000 District Meetings. It wasultimately decided not to participate inthis round of meetings. Instead, the Boardwill send a direct communication to themembership outlining its current initia-tives. The Board will consider holding itsown District Meetings in Spring 2001.

Information Technology Task ForceThe Information Technology Task

Force was created by the Board to adviseon computer technology issues as theyaffect the practice of pharmacy. RodAmaya has agreed to serve as Chair ofthis Task Force. The other Task Forcemembers are Ray Bannister, GeorgeFurneaux, Brian Henderson, LindaKlassen, Dale Rodenbush and DougSelinger. Peter Suwala of the Saskatch-ewan Drug Plan attends the meetings toprovide their perspective. The Task Forceheld its first meeting in Regina onSeptember 6, 2000. Terry Kereluke fromSHIN made a presentation about plansto provide Internet access and e-mail to

October 2000 7○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○

S A S K A T C H E W A N P H A R M A C E U T I C A L A S S O C I A T I O NR E P R E S E N T A T I V E B O A R D O F S A S K A T C H E W A N P H A R M A C I S T S

Saskatchewan pharmacies. The TaskForce has arranged for a pilot projectinvolving seven pharmacies to take placeby the end of October. Once the pilot iscompleted, plans will be made to provideInternet and e-mail access to allpharmacies. Members seeking moreinformation are encouraged to contactthe Task Force Chair, Rod Amaya orDean Bradley at (306) 359-RBSP.

Board Workshop Follow-upThe Board held a strategic planning

workshop in March 2000. A follow-upsession was held September 13, 2000 asthe entire workshop had not beencompleted in March. We will reportfurther on the outcome of the workshopin future editions of the newsletter.

ABX ProjectThe project is now well into the

evaluation phase. Information gatheredduring this period will be used to assessthe effect of the profiling and academicdetailing provided to physicians duringthe intervention phase. Data collectionby SPDP will continue until September30th in the Battlefords and until October31st in Yorkton, Canora, Melville, MooseJaw, Estevan, and Weyburn. To providemore complete data on antibiotic pre-scribing, participating pharmacists inthese areas are transmitting all ExceptionDrug Status antibiotics to SPDP, regard-less of patient coverage.

As well, pharmacists and physicians inthe intervention sites are being asked toassess the project on a survey question-naire. We encourage everyone to fill outand return the survey.

The information provided by theDay-4 interventions (reminder letters andtelephone callbacks) and the prescriptionhistory questionnaires is now beingorganized into a database in preparationfor analysis. Thank you very much to allthe pharmacists who took part in theseactivities.

The winners of The ABX Projectparticipation prizes were selected byrandom draw.

The following pharmacies received thegrand prize of a year’s subscription to TheMedical Letter: Hearn’s WestviewPharmacy (Yorkton), Pharmasave (Moose

Jaw), Wal-Mart (North Battleford), andWal-Mart (Prince Albert).

The final report on the project isscheduled to be ready in March 2001.Copies of the report will be sent to all

participating pharmacies at that time. Aswell, we also plan to present the projectresults at local continuing educationseminars for pharmacists and physicians.

CSHP (SASK BRANCH) UPDATE

New Sask Branch Web Page

The Saskatchewan Branch of the Canadian Society of HospitalPharmacists has created its own Web page. The site provides a quickinformation centre for all CSHP members. The site contains information onupcoming CSHP events, CSHP awards, and membership. CSHP Council andCommittee Chairs are listed, and the CSHP (Sask Branch) NewsletterPostscript is also available on-line. Check it out.

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The address is www.cshp-sk.org.

Saskatchewan Branch, CSHP

The Canadian Society of Hospital Pharmacists has established severalnational Pharmacy Specialty Networks (PSN). One of these is for pharmacistsworking in small, rural or isolated hospitals. If you think that you wouldbenefit from exchanging information with colleagues facing similar issues, youcan get more information or join this PSN through the discussion area of thenational CSHP Web site located at www.cshp.ca. Alternatively, contact BarryLyons at blyons.nehd@sk.sympatico.ca.

PHARMACY – A “WHOLE-ISTIC” APPROACHJoin CAPSI in Saskatoon for PDW 2001, January 31st – February 3rd for

Professional Development Week.• Speakers and interactive sessions will address a “whole-istic” approach• Topics that will be discussed include

– Pharmacist-patient relationships– Seamless care– Disease prevention strategies– Efficacy and regulations of health products– Biotechnology– Nontraditional therapies, and more.

• Saskatoon offers warm hospitality, friendly people, and unique prairieexperiences to make the conference a rewarding and enjoyable event.

For more information contact: pdw2001@pharmacy.usask.ca

October 20008 ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○

S A S K A T C H E W A N P H A R M A C E U T I C A L A S S O C I A T I O N

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YOU ASKED US

What is SPhA’s positionon over-labeling?

While over-labeling is a common practice, any pharmacist placing a prescription label overan existing stock bottle label must ensure the pharmaceutical elegance of the completedproduct. The final prescription package must project a positive image for the profession andmust not be incompatible with our professional image or undermine public trust.

We recently received an example wherein a product labeled and containing Slow K wasplaced in a stock bottle which formerly held Coumadin. The pharmacist failed to cover thedirections, expiry date and indications for the Coumadin. This led to the matter beingreferred to the office.

This matter could have been resolved if the pharmacist had, at least, covered all the stockbottle labeling. This may still be inappropriate, as the text still may be visible through theprescription label. To ensure that there is no cross contamination of any residue, thecontainer should be thoroughly washed and the label soaked off prior to being recycled.

I submitted a claim toGreenshield for an employee of

Saskatchewan Health. Greenshielddid not allow a “clearance period”so that we could clear out existing

inventory. What remedy isavailable to pharmacists who have

had their claim reduced by theGreenshield system?

To accommodate the pharmacists, Greenshield allows an on-line submission format, whichtakes into account pricing discrepancies, as a result of AAC. To that end, the pharmacistshould bill his/her AAC and use the on-line intervention code — ‘MI’. With this codeassociated with an electronic claim the pharmacist will be entitled to exceed our maximumallowed cost up to 25%. Pharmacists should be directed to their software vendor for directionon the actual per claim use of this intervention code — it varies at the software level. Theyare advised to ensure that a copy of the purchase invoice be available, in the event of audit.

Should the AAC exceed the maximum allowed +25%, the pharmacist will be asked tosubmit a manual claim for the further excess.

Janice Finlay, Supervisor, Drug Claims, Greenshield Canada

What are the labelingrequirements for

medications packaged in acompliance package?

Council has approved a set of guidelines for the proper labeling of Customized PatientMedication Packages, often referred to as “Complipaks” or “Pillpaks”. A customizedmedication package is defined as a series of blisters, or compartments, which contain morethan one prescribed solid oral dosage form and those medications may be administered at thesame time without any drug interaction effects.

These guidelines also require some specific labeling requirements, which are outlined asfollows:1) The patient med pak shall clearly indicate:

– the name of the patient– the name of the prescriber for each prescription– the prescription number for each prescription– the date dispensed– the name, strength, description and quantity of each prescription– the directions for each prescription– the name, address and phone number of the pharmacy– the name or initials of the pharmacist

2) If the drug name and strength is abbreviated on the back of each blister, the label mustshow the full name of the product and the corresponding abbreviation.

3) A description of each medication must be provided, either on the label or compartment,or as separate written information.

4) The quantity of each product in a med pak may be shown as, for example:– the total number per card (7/card, 14/card)– the dosage each day (1/day, 2/day) or,– label each blister.

5) The directions for each prescription may be shown on the label, or, with graphics on thepackaging.

6) The label and all auxiliary information must be clearly visible.For additional information, please refer to your SPhA Pharmacy Reference Manual, under

the section entitled “Customized Patient Medication Packages”.

October 2000 9○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○

S A S K A T C H E W A N P H A R M A C E U T I C A L A S S O C I A T I O N

FROMTHE DESKOF THEDEAN …

Dr. Dennis GoreckiCollege of Pharmacy and Nutrition

Another academic year has begun inthe College, with new students, newfaculty, a revised B.S.P. program, reno-vated College Office and a new organi-zational structure.

In this issue I am pleased to report onthe new administrative structure, which isaimed at enhancing the efficiency andeffectiveness of our operations. TheCollege will be governed by three majorCommittees and two Divisions. TheUndergraduate Affairs Committee,chaired by Assistant Dean Dr. LindaSuveges, will take responsibility for aca-demic programs delivery and manage-ment, admissions, awards, instructionaldevelopment and student services.

Assistant Dean Dr. Susan Whiting willchair the Research and Graduate AffairsCommittee which oversees graduateprogram issues, monitoring of researchgoals and initiatives, equipment andcomputers, laboratory health, safety andenvironment issues, and the College’sseminar program. Strategic planning,policies and procedures, facilities,resources and communications, alumniand development, and employmentequity will be the responsibility of theAdministrative Affairs Committee,chaired by the Dean. The Division Heads,Drs. Fred Remillard (Pharmacy) andShawna Berenbaum (Nutrition andDietetics) will bring together theirrespective Division members, studentsand affiliated services representatives todiscuss and make recommendationsregarding Division operations, academicprograms, coordination of experientialtraining, and liaison with services thatcontribute to our programs (e.g., DialAccess and Continuing ProfessionalDevelopment for Pharmacists).

The Dean, Assistant Deans and Divi-sion Heads form the College’s Executive

Committee, which plays a key role inbudget issues and monitoring our missionand goals. A new feature will be anannual “All-College Meeting” of faculty,staff, students and representatives fromthe professions. There will be a “state ofthe College address”, and attendees willbe encouraged to contribute opinions andquestions on issues affecting our programs.College faculty members will meet four tofive times a year and continue their rolein recommending faculty actions (relatedto academic performance of students),degrees and program changes to the “FullFaculty”. This body, which includesmembers of senior administration andrepresentatives from other faculties,approves the above actions. Recommen-dations for major program revisions go onto University Council for final approval.Representation of students has beenincreased in many areas of the new struc-ture, most notably student representativeswill now have voting privileges on ourFaculty and Full Faculty. We look forwardto many positive changes, and welcomeinput from our partners in the professions.

P R O F E S S I O N A L O P P O R T U N I T I E S

MATERNITY LEAVECORONACH PHARMACY

A pharmacist is needed to cover a 6-monthmaternity leave. It will be a 35-hour work week,Monday to Friday starting January 2, 2001.

Please send resume to:Delee Foley Phone: (306) 268-2002P.O. Box 218 Fax: (306) 268-2801Bengough SK S0C 0K0

BIG RIVER PHARMACY FOR SALEBig River Pharmacy is located in North Central Saskatchewan.

The climate for this town is “truly optimistic”. The building of the new hospital,adjoining our long-term care facility is completed. The economy is dependent on thelumber industry and sawmill, and we share in the sports & leisure facility that isconstantly growing. Our store has annual sales of $1,000,000. It is the only store for1 hour, north or south. We prosper from our townspeople and residents of 3 nativereserves in close proximity.

Ask for Laurie or JosePhone: (306) 469-2212 • Fax: (306) 469-4514

POSITION AVAILABLE IMMEDIATELYPHARMACY MANAGER

• Excellent wages & benefits• Bonus initiatives• Flexible work schedule• Busy, friendly clinic type setting

Fax resume to: OR Phone:Michele: (403) 346-5810 Dev: (403) 343-2524

HILLTOP PHARMACYRED DEER, ALBERTA

10 Year ReunionClass of 1991College of PharmacyU of SMark your calendars for June 29 to July 1, 2001!

A group mailing was sent out in late September, so if youhaven’t received an information letter yet, please contact:

Andrea (Finstad) Shoobert522-1610 or afinstad@sk.sympatico.ca

Susan (Mah) Yee at 789-4467 or gsyee@sk.sympatico.ca

P R O F E S S I O N A L O P P O R T U N I T I E S

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www.valuedrugmart.com

Bring Your Pharmacy Career toVermilion – for the Lifestyle!

Long’s Value Drug Mart in Vermilion, Alberta requires a full-time pharmacist. We offer a competitive salary and anattractive schedule – you’ll have three days off every secondweekend. And Vermilion, just two hours east of Edmonton, hasgreat lifestyle options for families or singles!

• Provincial park – hiking, cross country skiing, canoeing,fishing

• 9-hole golf course with grass greens• Lakeland College – indoor swimming pool, racquet courts,

fitness center• K – 12 schools with state-of-the-art technology• Attractive, affordable residential areas• There’s more! Visit Vermilion on the Web at:

www.town.vermilion.ab.ca

Alberta also has to offer:• No provincial sales tax• Lower personal income tax• LOWER FUEL PRICES!

If you have superior professional and customer relations skills,and you like what Vermilion has to offer, please apply to:

Long’s Value Drug Mart4939 – 50 Avenue

Vermilion, Alberta T9X 1A6Attention: Jason or Craig

Tel: (780) 853-5316Fax: (780) 853-2915

E-mail: longvdm@telusplanet.net

STAFF PHARMACISTWeyburn & Kindersley, Saskatchewan

The successful applicant is required for dispensing and pharmacy functions, patientcounselling and customer service. Responsibility for some store management will berequired in the absence of the store manager. A professional attitude and the abilityto communicate well with customers is required. Salary range: $28-$32/hour withcomplete benefits package.

We are looking for an ambitious, energetic, potential pharmacist entrepreneurwho has the traits to be involved and succeed in drug store ownership in the future.We offer the necessary work experience, training and financial backing to makeownership a reality.

For more information or to apply in confidence, please submit resume to:Mr. Blair Pateman

Paragon Pharmacy Ltd.54 – 3rd Street N.E., Weyburn SK S4H 0V9Phone: (306) 848-3868 or 1-888-848-3850

Fax: (306) 848-3859E-mail: pateman.b@dlcwest.com

Career Opportunities in Beautiful British Columbia

PHARMASAVE, Canada’s fastest growing group ofindependently owned drugstores is accepting applicationsfor PHARMACISTS for full-time, part-time or reliefpositions throughout B.C. Please reply, in confidence to:

Pharmasave Drugs (Pacific) Ltd.Attn.: Professional Services Dept.

6350 – 203rd Street, Langley, B.C. V2Y 1L9Phone: (604) 532-2162 Fax: (604) 532-1785

PHARMACY FOR SALEWell established store • Serving the community for over 23 years

Reasonable & reliable leased spaceGood prescription and Front store volumeLocated in the midst of Recreation Paradise

Minutes away from excellent camping, boating, fishing, hunting, skiingOpen 9-6 Monday – Saturday • No Holidays or Sundays

Profitable Store – Priced to Sell!Please reply to:P.O. Box 1721

North Battleford SK S9A 3W2

Shoppers Drug MartOrangeville, Ontario

Spring 2001The position requires an individual who exhibits a high degreeof professionalism and excellent counselling skills. PreviousShoppers Drug Mart experience not essential.

Orangeville is an excellent community to live and work – agrowing community of 28,000 just 30 minutes from Brampton,45 minutes from downtown Toronto, and 45 minutes fromworld-class skiing at Blue Mountain and the year-round beautyof Georgian Bay – the best of two worlds!

The position offers a very competitive salary and benefits in anew midnight community pharmacy. Services include an in-house medical lab.

If you are planning a move to Ontario, this may be theopportunity you are looking for.

Please contact:

Leon MunozHome: (519) 941-9956Fax : (519) 941-3467

P R O F E S S I O N A L O P P O R T U N I T I E S

October 2000 11○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○

FULL-TIME PHARMACISTGravenhurst, Ontario

We require a full-time pharmacist for an independentcommunity pharmacy in Gravenhurst, Ontario in the heartof the Muskokas just 145 km north of Toronto. Muskoka is

renowned for the splendor of its many lakes providingexcellent recreational facilities all year round. For the

suitable applicant, there may be an ownership opportunity.Apply to: Paul Lucas

(705) 687-3161 • (705) 687-1577 (Fax)

Thunder BayRegional Hospital

requiresPermanent Full-time

Pharmacists

Thunder Bay Regional Hospital is a 340-bed regional, acute care referral centre locatedin Northwestern Ontario. We are dedicated to the provision of outstanding patient care.

Thunder Bay Regional Hospital was formed as the result of the restructuring of localacute care hospitals into one new regional acute care centre. Services offered at theinstitution include general medicine and surgery, regional Renal Services Program,Cardiac Rehabilitation Program, Oncology Program and a Perinatology Program. Weare developing a new 375-bed, state-of-the-art facility, planned for completion in theFall of 2002. We currently have positions for full-time Pharmacists on our team.

You will be part of a progressive department that provides drug therapy monitoring,inpatient counselling, a pharmacokinetic dosing program, drug information, andinvolvement in multi-disciplinary patient care rounds. The position also includes drugdistribution activities in a fully computerized department that provides a wide range ofservices including parenteral nutrition, chemotherapy, and IV admixture service.

You are an energetic individual who exhibits excellent organizational and interpersonalskills and the ability to work well in a team environment. Previous hospital experiencewill be an asset. You must be registered to practice or be eligible to be registered topractice in the province of Ontario.

We offer competitive salary and benefits. Please forward your resume in confidence to:

Jeff Chan, ManagerDepartment of Pharmacy

Thunder Bay Regional Hospital460 N. Court Street

Thunder Bay ON P7A 4X6Tel: (807) 343-7126 Fax: (807) 345-8421

E-mail: chanj@tbh.net

PHARMACY FOR SALE

Excellent opportunity to own a pharmacy

Excellent Rx volume

Excellent location; reasonable price

Owner willing to help finance.

Phone Gary (306) 441-6523

for details

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES MANAGER(Pharmacist)

Pharmasave Drugs (Central) Ltd. invites applications from high-energy pharmacists for the position of Professional ServicesManager. The successful applicant will be supporting the profes-sional services of Pharmasave owners and pharmacists in thePrairies, by assisting with the development and implementationof leading edge professional practice standards, and helping tomaximize operational efficiency.

If you are an enthusiastic, multi-tasking pharmacist (licensed oreligible for licensure in Manitoba or Saskatchewan) with avision of pharmacy’s emerging role in community health care,this is the position for you. This is an excellent opportunity towork with a progressive group of pharmacies committed to thegrowth and expansion of professional services. If you share thiscommitment, please forward your resume in confidence to:

Mr. Bruce Pearson, ChairmanBoard of Directors

Pharmasave Drugs (Central) Ltd.206 – 584 Pembina Highway

Winnipeg MB R3M 3X7

DEADLINE for applications:Wednesday, November 15, 2000

For further information, please call:Shelley M. Stepanuik at (204) 985-0233.

Pharmasave is a group of independently-ownedpharmacies Canada-wide.

At Calgary Co-op, we take good care of our pharmacists. If you’d care to move toAlberta, Calgary Co-op will treat you well. We’ll help you obtain your Alberta pharmacylicence, and give you a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits and plenty ofopportunity to learn and advance in your career. In turn, you’ll play a leading role inCare+, a pharmacy program that delivers the highest level of personal attention.

You’ll be part of a thriving organization that includes 19 Calgary-area grocerycentres, each providing a variety of services including in-store pharmacies. Yourprofessionalism and commitment will help ensure that our pharmacies maintain theirexcellent reputation for patient care.

Care to join us?Please forward your resume in confidence stating salary expectations to:

Calgary Co-op, Human Resources2735 – 39th Avenue NE, Calgary AB T1Y 7C7

Fax: (403) 299-4147E-mail: ehowdle@calgarycoop.com

OR – Contact: Ron Lane, Pharmacy Director(403) 219-6025, Ext. 6128

We thank all applicants for their interest, however only those candidates to be interviewed will be contacted.

“Visit us at www.calgarycoop.com”

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S A S K A T C H E W A N P H A R M A C E U T I C A L A S S O C I A T I O N

SPEED READING

TRIPLICATE PRESCRIPTIONPROGRAM

The Triplicate Prescription Programhas notified us that they currently haveover 600 triplicate prescriptions withoutpersonal health numbers. While theCollege of Physicians and Surgeonsacknowledges that this is the physician’sresponsibility, the Program is asking formembers’ assistance to ensure that theinformation is recorded.

The individuals responsible for input-ting the information into the system donot have access to these numbers and sowill be returning the prescription copiesfor completion.

We realize that this request may posean extra burden for members but trust thissituation will resolve itself with theimplementation of the network solution.

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NOTICE OF COMPLAINTThe Complaints Committee of the

College of Physicians and Surgeons hasrequested that we notify our members of arecent complaint lodged against one oftheir members. The complainant did notgive permission to disclose her name andtherefore it is impossible for us to contactthe pharmacist involved, however weagree that the circumstances warrantcomment.

The physician has acknowledged theerror in the amount of medicationprescribed and the Committee is of theopinion that physicians are responsiblefor the prescriptions they write.

They did wonder why the pharmacistwould not question a prescription ofmorphine for the prescribed amountwhen the file would indicate that thepatient had never had a previous prescrip-tion for morphine. Had the pharmacistinteracted with the attending physicianand questioned the written prescriptionthis error might have been avoided.

Members are reminded that inproviding professional services, it is theresponsibility of the pharmacist todetermine that all components of theprescription fall within reasonableparameters.

HEALTH CANADAHealth Canada has requested that we

remind pharmacists of the guideline forhealth care professional reporting ofAdverse Drug Reactions. Copies of theguideline and ADR reporting form can befound in the July 2000 edition of the DrugPlan Formulary pages 296 to 300.

A copy of the form is located in theCanadian Compendium of Pharma-ceuticals and Specialties (CPS), and onthe Internet at http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/hpb-dgps/therapeut/ under the subjects Guide-lines and Forms.

It is hoped that through increasedawareness of adverse drug reaction report-ing and the TPP’s Post-Approval Assess-ment Programme, signals and trends indrug safety and effectiveness will be moreefficiently identified.

METHADONE LABELINGAND DISPENSING

For patients who have been grantedcarry privileges, the medication should belabeled according to federal/provincialrequirements. A warning must beincluded to the effect that the amount ofdrug contained could cause serious harmor toxicity if taken by someone otherthan for whom it was prescribed.

Bottle as individual dosages and labelfor carry-home dosages. Childproof safetycaps should be used on carry bottles. Theprovincial guidelines do specify the use of100ml when dispensing methadone, as alarge volume is harder to divert.

Please contact the SPhA office forcopies of the guidelines from both theDrugs Directorate, Health ProtectionBranch, Health Canada (1994) andAlcohol & Drug Services, SaskatchewanHealth (1995).

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THE SASKATCHEWANTRANSPLANT PROGRAM

The Saskatchewan TransplantProgram is pleased to announce thatSusan Teplitsky, one of our members, hasjoined the transplant team. This is a jointone-year pilot project between theSaskatchewan Transplant Program andthe Pharmacy Department, RoyalUniversity Hospital. Congratulations,Susan! Any questions regarding medica-tions for transplant patients may bedirected to Susan at (306) 655-4052.

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WELCOME MICHAELWhile Pat Guillemin is on maternity

leave, Michael Bigayan will be fulfillingPat’s duties.

Please join us in welcoming him to theSPhA office staff.

Celebrate the90th Anniversary

of theSaskatchewan Pharmaceutical

Association

Conference 2001April 6-8, 2001

Hotel Saskatchewan, Regina

MARK YOUR CALENDARS NOW!