In a prior COVID-19 update from Premier Scott Moe, he announced that pharmacists would be playing a big part in Phase 2 of the provincial immunization plan. Saskatchewan pharmacists seem on board after they get the vaccine, to play a key role in the delivery of the largest mass vaccination campaign in provincial history.

The participation of Saskatchewan pharmacists will significantly increase public access to the vaccine, improving the rate of vaccination. Kindersley Pharmasave's Lav Patel, is excited to be apart of the process.

“We definitely thought that when the vaccine plan came out, pharmacists would be included in Phase 1, including other healthcare professionals.” said Patel, “We always expected this would be ideal way to go. Based on looking at the flu shots that pharmacy’s give every year, over 50% of people are getting the shot at their community pharmacy.”

He believes it is a smart approach because of the average person’s proximity to a pharmacy, along with the already successful history of vaccinations being administered outside of public health.

Public health has been overtly busy with the current roll-out plan, which means other shots usually available to the public through the system have been pushed to pharmacys. Patel explained how regularly available vaccines and appointments (such as shingles) through public health are no longer available, thanks to the emphasis health workers have put on the COVID-19 vaccine. Patel said he has had some patients come in for the shingles shot, who were forced to pay out of their own pocket.

Currently, the only publicly funded vaccine that pharmacist’s can give out is the flu shot.

With the news official, pharmacy’s are preparing. Each outlet will need proper equipment to store the vaccine, and Patel said his store is getting prepared to recieve and store the vaccines, and begin giving it to patients when the time comes.

According to a government release, the government has negotiated a tentative new pharmacy Proprietor Agreement with the Pharmacy Association of Saskatchewan on behalf of all Saskatchewan pharmacies. The Agreement establishes the fee for pharmacist delivery of COVID-19 vaccines, along with increases in prescription dispensing fees and influenza vaccine fees. It is for a one year term, beginning March 1, 2021.