Listen Live
Listen Live

Province seeing positives of expanded pharmacist care and free contraceptives

Since expanding the scope of practice for pharmacists and making contraceptives free, the province says nearly 300,000 people have benefited.

“People in B.C. are feeling squeezed by everyday costs,” said Premier David Eby in a release.

“That’s why we made contraceptives free and began allowing pharmacists to prescribe medications for minor ailments like rashes, infections and allergies. This has relieved pressure on clinics and ERs, and saved British Columbians hundreds of dollars on contraceptives every year. This is just one way we’re making health care more accessible and making life more affordable.”

More than 188,000 people received free contraceptives. Provincial officials said this has saved individuals around $300 a year for hormonal pills and IUDs previously had an upfront cost of $400.

According to the province, more than 132,000 people saw a pharmacist about a minor ailment.

They said this has helped patients get quicker care, especially those who don’t have a family doctor.

Josiah Spyker
Josiah Spyker
Josiah is an integral part of our East Kootenay team. Since joining Vista Radio in 2021, he has combined his love of community and sport in his reporting for the news team, while also stepping in as an on-air announcer.

Continue Reading

cjat Now playing play

ckqr Now playing play

- Advertisement -

Related Articles

- Advertisement -

Latest News

B.C. jobs minister says Trump’s film tariff threat too early to call

British Columbia’s Jobs Minister Ravi Kahlon said it’s too early to tell if Donald Trump’s latest tariff threat against the film industry is legitimate. 

Eby welcomes federal decision to label Bishnoi gang as terrorists

Premier David Eby said listing the Lawrence Bishnoi gang as a terrorist group is “the right move.”

Check your tread: B.C.’s winter tire rules kick in Wednesday

Ready or not, winter tire season starts this week in British Columbia this Wednesday.

Local governments get more time to consult on Heritage Conservation Act overhaul

The Union of B.C. Municipalities have welcomed the province’s decision to extend consultations on a controversial overhaul of the Heritage Conservation Act. 

Salmo residents advised of chlorination work

The Village of Salmo is advising residents that its crew will begin chlorinating the community’s water system at midnight Wednesday, Oct. 1, through 7 a.m. Friday, Oct. 3.
- Advertisement -