Shoppers Drug Mart has invoiced the Ontario government’s MedsCheck program for $81.2 million for medication reviews during a two-year period, as some current and former pharmacists disclosed facing “unethical” corporate pressures to achieve targets for professional services. This billing amount for the 2022-23 and 2023-24 fiscal years exceeds by $8 million what the pharmacy chain billed for the same services over the previous six years combined, based on data acquired by CBC News through a freedom of information request.
Aly Háji, a regulatory lawyer specializing in pharmacy health-care law, noted a significant rise in MedsChecks despite declining revenues from services like COVID shots during the pandemic. This trend raises concerns about the corporatization of healthcare, where healthcare professionals navigate dual loyalties between the corporation and patient care.
Medication reviews involve consultations between pharmacists and patients to review prescriptions and ensure proper medication usage. In Ontario, individuals taking at least three medications for chronic conditions, residing in licensed long-term care facilities, or undergoing diabetes treatment qualify for a medication review. Pharmacies can bill the government $60 for an annual review, $75 for diabetes patients, and $25 for follow-up consultations.
Last year, a CBC News investigation exposed that Shoppers Drug Mart enforced targets for services like medication reviews, leading to increased pressure on pharmacy owners to meet these quotas. Following this revelation, CBC News requested billing data for the MedsCheck program from various pharmacy chains in Ontario.
Shoppers Drug Mart’s billing comprises 77% of the total $293.2 million invoiced collectively by eight pharmacy chains from the 2013-14 fiscal year through October 2024. The company’s average revenue per pharmacy surpasses that of other chains, emphasizing its dominant position in providing medication reviews.
Despite assertions from pharmacy chains regarding their focus on patient care, concerns persist about corporate pressures influencing professional responsibilities. The Ontario College of Pharmacists highlighted ongoing investigations related to business pressures, with a significant portion linked to MedsCheck reviews.
The program’s current structure allows pharmacy chains to profit from medication reviews, prompting calls for an overhaul. Recommendations include stricter qualifications for review eligibility, mandatory documentation, and improved communication between pharmacists and prescribers. The Ontario Pharmacy Association has proposed reforms to enhance the MedsCheck program, emphasizing the need for improvements to ensure quality care delivery.
The government is considering changes to the MedsCheck program based on feedback and proposals from stakeholders, aiming to enhance health outcomes, reduce redundancies, and streamline administrative processes while safeguarding patient choice.
