phar·ma·cist
/'färməsəst/
A person who is professionally qualified to
prepare and dispense medicinal drugs.
provide a broad range of healthcare.
Nova Scotia Pharmacy Regulator
We’re here so that you can trust in the care you receive from your pharmacist.
As the regulator of pharmacy practice in Nova Scotia, our job is to ensure you receive safe, quality care from pharmacy professionals and the pharmacies where they work.
From prescribing medications, to treating chronic conditions, to offering you contraception, vaccines, and advice to keep you well, your pharmacist provides more care than ever.
We’re here to make sure you can be confident in the quality of care you receive.
About NSPR
Redefining Pharmacy Care
The care that you are able to get from your pharmacist is changing. Pharmacists are highly trained healthcare professionals who can meet a broad range of your healthcare needs in your own community.
The NSPR is here for you, making sure your health and wellbeing are supported by your pharmacist’s full range of knowledge and expertise.
Below are some of the key areas of care your pharmacist can provide.
phar·ma·cist
Medication Renewals
Pharmacists can assess your needs and prescribe a renewal for many of your existing medications.
Before prescribing, the pharmacist will conduct a thorough assessment, which may include asking questions and, if needed, conducting a physical assessment.
phar·ma·cist
Personalizing Your Medication
When a pharmacist prescribes a renewal of your medication, they can also make changes so that your medication is best suited for you:
- Adjust the dose of the medication
- Change how often you take it
- Stop the medication and start you on a new one that will work better for you
phar·ma·cist
Treating Common Conditions
Pharmacists can assess and prescribe treatment for many common conditions. This includes things like:
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
- Strep Throat
- Heartburn/Reflux
- Cold sores
- Acne
- Diarrhea
- Rashes and mild skin irritations
Before prescribing, the pharmacist will conduct a thorough assessment, which may include asking questions and, if needed, conduct a physical assessment.
phar·ma·cist
Contraception Management
Pharmacists can be a primary provider of contraception care to prevent pregnancy. They can:
- Assess and prescribe hormonal birth control (pills, patches, rings)
- Collaborate with other healthcare providers on devices like IUDs or implantable options
- Provide counselling on your full range of contraception options
- Advise on screening for sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
- Refer you to other sexual health services
Did you know?
Pharmacists are highly trained healthcare professionals.
Pharmacists are medication experts who have a university healthcare degree in pharmacy (Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy or Doctor of Pharmacy). They must also pass competency exams and be licensed by the NSPR.
Filling a prescription requires more than just ensuring that the correct pills are in the bottle and that the label is correct.
Your pharmacist has to make sure the medication, dose, instructions, and the reason the medication has been prescribed, are right for you. They will also consult your health record to check for possible interactions or other issues. Sometimes, they also have to work with your other healthcare providers to resolve these concerns.
Pharmacy Care FAQs
