On June 17, 2016, the federal government enacted amendments to the Criminal Code of Canada (the “Criminal Code”) to include circumstances under which medical assistance in dying (MAiD) is permitted.

In accordance with the new legislation, the College developed a MAiD guidance document to assist pharmacy professionals in complying with their legal obligations and professional expectations with respect to MAiD.

Since the introduction of MAiD, the College has received a number of questions about it. In response, we’ve developed a MAiD Frequently Asked Questions document which is designed to further support practitioners when aiding in MAiD.

Does your pharmacy dispense fentanyl?

If so, this is a reminder that in preparation for the Patch 4 Patch program launching on October 1, you need to read the Patch 4 Patch Fentanyl Return Program Fact Sheet, which outlines the specific roles and responsibilities for physicians and pharmacists when prescribing and dispensing fentanyl.

All pharmacies dispensing fentanyl patches need to be compliant with the new legislation when it comes into effect on October 1, 2016.

Here are some key highlights from the September 2016 Council meeting:

• Dr. Régis Vaillancourt was acclaimed College President and Ms. Christine Donaldson was acclaimed Vice-President for the 2016-2017 Council term.
• Council approved the College’s 2017 operating budget with - as a result of continued growth in registration and moderate increases in expenses for 2017 - no fee increases.
• Council approved frameworks for updating the quality assurance and registration regulations. This will allow the College to proceed with drafting amendments to regulations that will be outcomes-based, supported by standards, policies and guidelines which can change over time to enable practice evolution.
• Having considered feedback received through public consultation, Council adopted the Model Standards for Pharmacy Compounding of Non-hazardous and Hazardous Sterile Preparations (NAPRA 2016) and approved implementation by January 1, 2019. Pharmacies currently engaged in sterile compounding are expected to review these new standards, identify any gaps in current practice and establish an action plan to ensure full compliance on or before the January 1, 2019 deadline.

Read the September 2016 Council Report now