The OPA Professional Practice, Spotlight and Important Update emails inform members of pharmacy trends, membership benefits, OPA’s advocacy work, changes to regulations as well as clinical tools and resources to support pharmacy professionals in their careers. This collection provides members with access to previous editions of emails. The information contained in the emails is subject to change and was current at the time the publication was shared.

2023 Publications

September

Association Highlights

  • Ontario Government Unveils Plan for the 2023 Respiratory Illness Season
  • New Lunch and Learn Series — Dermatology Conversations: Expert Tips for Skin Health
  • Have you Registered for the OPA LEAD Webinar?
  • OPA Campus Visits

Pharmacy Resources

  • Centennial College Job Fair

Membership Benefits

  • Save on TELUS Mobility and Home Services
  • Coverage for When You Need It Most — OPA Secure Health Plan

View the Publication

Pharmacy Programs

  • Minor Ailment Regulatory Changes

Consultations and Submissions

  • Public Consultation on Expanded Scope of Practice for Pharmacy Professionals

COVID-19 Testing

  • COVID-19 Rapid Antigen and PCR Testing
  • ODB and Third-Party Payor Program Updates

ODB Formulary Updates

  • Changes to the ANPD Ordering and Claim Submission Process for Pharmacies

Pharmacy News

  • We Value Your Opinion on OPA’s Membership Campaigns

View the Publication

August

Association Highlights

  • Join us for the OPA LEAD Webinar
  • Provide Feedback and You Could Win!
  • NetwoRx: Your OPA Community Platform Coming Soon!

Pharmacy Resources

  • International Overdose Awareness Day
  • Methadone Online Forum and Drug Line
  • Pharmacist Clinical Tool for Initiating Naloxone Discussions
  • Naloxone Patient Brochure
  • Strategies for Incorporating Naloxone Dispensing in Pharmacy Practice
  • Opioid Addictions and Substitution Therapy Course
  • Methadone and Buprenorphine Toolkit

Membership Benefits

  • Streamline Minor Ailment Services with MAPflow
  • OPA Members Earn More on Relief Buddy
  • Elevate Your Legacy with Life Insurance

View the Publication

COVID-19 and RSV Vaccinations

  • Health Canada Approves First RSV Vaccine
  • COVID-19 Vaccinations

Drug Shortages

  • Ozempic Shortage
  • Infant Formula Shortage

ODB and Third-Party Payor Program Updates

  • Renewed Generic Pricing Agreement
  • Ontario Biosimilar Transition Program

Pharmacy News

  • Leveraging Data to Drive Pharmacy Growth
  • FIP Community Pharmacy Section Survey
  • Canadian Health and COVID-19 Survey (CHCS)

View the Publication

Association Highlights

  • Get Prepared: Presale for the New Minor Ailments Course Now On
  • NEW OPA LEAD Webinar
    Conquering Student Loans and Securing Your Financial Future
  • Share Your Opinion on OPA’s Membership Campaigns

Pharmacy Resources

  • Unlocking the Power of Nutrition: Integrating the DASH Diet in MedsCheck Consultations
  • Virtual education event on OTC counselling (earn up to 4.5 CEUs*)

Membership Benefits

  • OPA MemberPerks Discounts for the Canadian National Exhibition (CNE) & MORE!
  • Focus Mental Wellness — Therapy at Your Convenience
  • Secure Your Future with Long-Term Disability

View the Publication

Pharmacy Practice Updates

  • Maximum Number of Claims for Tick Bite Assessments Increased
  • Reminder: Expanded Scope of Practice Public Consultation Deadline

ODB and Third-Party Payor Program Updates

  • ODB Funding of Ranibizumab

Pharmacy News

  • FIP Community Pharmacy Section Survey
    AFPC Advanced Primary Care Pharmacist Training Program

View the Publication

Association Highlights

  • Presale for New Minor Ailments Course!
  • OPA Member Handbook and Profile Update

Pharmacy Resources

  • Therapeutic Options—Focus on Anxiety and Depression in Children and Adolescents
  • AFPC Advanced Primary Care Pharmacist Training Program – Apply by August 18th
  • OCP Blog—A Series of Missed Opportunities to Prevent a Medication Incident
  • Reminder: Complete the Canadian Health and COVID-19 Survey

Membership Benefits

  • MemberPerks August Contest
  • Your Ultimate Travel Companion: Manulife Insurance Keeps You Covered

View the Publication

July

Pharmacy Scope of Practice FAQs

  • Administering Substances by Injection and/or Inhalation
  • Minor Ailment Assessments

Pharmacy Programs

  • Changes to the Maximum Number of Claims for Tick Bite Assessments

COVID-19 Vaccinations

  • Correction to the COVID-19 Executive Officer Notice
  • COVID-19 Vaccine Guidance

ODB and Third-Party Payor Program Updates

  • OPA Therapeutic Notes Resource

Pharmacy News

  • Reminder: Complete The Canadian Health and COVID-19 Survey (CHCS)

View the Publication

Association Highlights

  • Reminder: Join an OPA Committee or Task Force

Pharmacy Resources

  • Unlocking the Power of Nutrition: Integrating the DASH Diet in MedsCheck Consultations
  • The RSV Roadmap: Navigating How to Best Assist Older Adults

Membership Benefits

  • Earn Extra Income with Relief Buddy
  • RxVigilance: A Convenient Summer Kit!
  • Updates to GoodLife Member Benefit
  • Win a Vitamix!

View the Publication

Pharmacy Scope of Practice Updates

  • Ontario Pharmacists to Prescribe and Assess for 6 Additional Minor Ailments
  • Future Updates to the Minor Ailment Drug Lists
  • Proposed Regulatory Changes: Vaccination and Treatment Authorization for COVID-19 and Influenza
  • OPA Injection and Inhalation Tools and Resources

COVID-19 Vaccinations

  • Updated COVID-19 Vaccine Guidance and Executive Officer Notices
  • COVID-19 Vaccination Authority Extended for Pharmacy Professionals

ODB and Third-Party Payor Program Updates

  • Ontario Drug Programs Reference Manual Updates

Pharmacy News

  • Blog— Unlocking the Power of Nutrition: Integrating the DASH Diet in MedsCheck Consultations
  • Join an OPA Committee or Task Force
  • Complete The Canadian Health and COVID-19 Survey (CHCS)

View the Publication

Association Highlights

  • Join an OPA Committee or Task Force
  • OPA is Hiring a Customer Experience & Administration Specialist
  • OPA Membership Benefits

Pharmacy Resources

  • Transitions in Care and Services Second Edition
  • Complete The Canadian Health and COVID-19 Survey (CHCS)
  • Blog Post — Protect Workers During Nonsterile Hazardous Drug Compounding: Yes, the Risks are Real!

View the Publication

June

Pharmacy Programs

  • Injection and Inhalation Scope of Practice
  • OPA Transitioning to Biosimilars Webpage
  • Biosimilar Monitoring Table Updates
  • Final Reminder: UIIP 2023/2024 Applications

COVID-19 Vaccinations and Testing

  • Changes to Provincial Rapid Antigen Testing Programs
  • COVID-19 PCR Testing Eligibility Criteria
  • Immediate Withdrawal of Janssen COVID-19
  • Vaccine from Canada

ODB and Third-Party Payor Program Updates

  • Public Service Health Care Plan

Pharmacy News

  • Publication of Transitions in Care and Services Guidelines
  • 2023 CSHP OB Call for Award Nominations
  • Correction to Expiry Dates for Paxlovid
  • Novo Nordisk to Discontinue NovoRapid and Levemir FlexTouch Products

View the Publication

Association Highlights

  • OPA’s Guide to Pharmacy Safety: Increase Safety Measures and Take Preventative Actions

Pharmacy Resources

  • Calcium – Dietary Sources and Drug Interactions Patient Handout
  • 📢 Webinar Reminder – RSV and the Older Adult: Aging, Immunity, and the Pharmacist’s Role in Vaccine-Preventable Diseases
  • Sun Safety – Frequently Asked Questions

Membership Benefits

  • Dive into Summer Fun with OPA MemberPerks
  • Implement Effective and Efficient Minor Ailment Services with MAPflow
  • Focus Mental Wellness Offers Tips on How to Prevent Burnout
  • 2023 CSHP OB Call for Award Nominations

View the Publication

Consultations and Submissions

  • Consultation on Expanded Scope Regulatory Amendments

Pharmacy Programs

  • Updated OCP Policies on Injection and Inhalation
  • Reminder: UIIP 2023/2024 Applications Open

COVID-19 Vaccinations and Testing

  • NACI Statement on COVID-19 Bivalent Vaccines
  • Distribution of Self-Administered COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Tests

Pharmacy News

  • CPhA Survey of International Pharmacy Graduates

View the Publication

Association Highlights

  • AGM Recording

Pharmacy Resources

  • Pride Month
  • National Indigenous History Month
  • Calcium – Dietary Sources and Drug Interactions Patient Handout
  • Migraine Management mastermind for Pharmacists
  • Webinar Recording – Introduction to EDI: Understanding Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion in Pharmacy

Membership Benefits

  • OPA MemberPerks
  • Taking a Trip? Don’t Forget Travel Insurance

View the Publication

May

Association Highlights

  • RxTalks 2-Day Tickets Only Available for A Limited Time!
  • Annual Report
  • OPA is Hiring!
  • University of Waterloo White Coat Ceremony

Pharmacy Resources

  • Blog Post: Tobacco Harm Reduction and Vaping Cessation – New Opportunities for Pharmacist Skills

Membership Benefits

  • Box Labs Offer and MAPflow Partnership
  • Assist Patients with Smoking Cessation with RxVigilance

View the Publication

OPA Updates

  • Expanded Scope: Administering Substances by Injection and Inhalation
  • Updated Minor Ailment FAQ Resource
  • RxTalks Registration

Pharmacy Programs

  • UIIP 2023/2024 Applications Now Open

COVID-19 Vaccinations

  • COVaxON Updates

Drug Shortages and Recalls

  • Bausch Health Issues Recall for Emerade® Auto-Injectors
  • SOCG Warns of Potential Misoprostol Shortage
  • Shortage of Nitroglycerin Sprays and Tablets in Canada

Pharmacy News

  • Lyme Disease Awareness Month

View the Publication

OPA is pleased to announce that the Ontario government approved amendments to O. Reg 202/94 of the Pharmacy Act, 1991, expanding the authority of injection-trained Part A pharmacists, pharmacy interns, students, and pharmacy technicians to administer substances listed in Schedule 1 and Schedule 2 of the regulations by injection or inhalation for purposes beyond patient education and demonstration. The changes to the regulations come into effect July 1st, 2023.

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Association Highlights

  • Board Update Summary
  • Register for RxTalks for a Chance to Win up to $300!

Pharmacy Resources

  • Upcoming Webinar: Understanding Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion in Healthcare and Pharmacy
  • Indigenous Pharmacy Scholarship

Membership Benefits

  • Don’t Miss Your Exclusive OPA Member Discount – Get 15% Off Now!
  • Win Prizes from GoodLife!

View the Publication

Pharmacy Programs

  • Minor Ailments Executive Officer Notice
  • Reduce the Risk of ODB Claims Recovery on Audit: Follow-up and Monitoring for Minor Ailment Services
  • Prescribing and Dispensing Publicly Funded Paxlovid™

COVID-19 Vaccinations and Testing

  • Spring 2023 COVID-19 Booster Doses
  • COVID-19 PCR Testing in Ontario Pharmacies

ODB and Third-Party Payor Program Updates

  • ODB Formulary Updates

Pharmacy News

  • Pharmacy Student Opportunity with OPA
  • Ontario Drug Policy Symposium
  • Mental Health Awareness Week

View the Publication

April

Association Highlights

  • Register Now for the Annual General Meeting
  • National Immunization Awareness Week
  • OPA Staff Connect with Lambton College Students

Pharmacy Resources

  • Addressing the Opioid Crisis—The Need for a Pain Management Intervention in Community Pharmacies in Canada: A Narrative Review
  • New Course on Climate Change

Membership Benefits

  • Prioritize Your Wellbeing with Focus Mental Wellness
  • Get a Quote from The Co-Operators Insurance and Receive $20!

View the Publication

OPA Updates

  • OPA Minor Ailments Webpage Now Available
    Biosimilar Monitoring Table

COVID-19 Vaccine Administration

  • Spring 2023 COVID-19 Booster Doses

Pharmacy News

  • Time-Delayed Safe Scam Targeting Ontario Pharmacies
  • Ontario Sharps Collection Program

View the Publication

Association Highlights

  • RxTalks–OPA’s Redesigned and Reimagined Conference Experience
  • Notice of Annual General Meeting Of 
    Members of the Ontario Pharmacists Association 
  • OPA PAM Winners

Pharmacy Resources

  • Pharmacy Safety Tools

Membership Benefits

  • Spring into Savings with OPA MemberPerks
  • TELUS Mobility Member Benefit
  • Exclusive Savings on Home and Auto Insurance

View the Publication

Consultations and Submissions

  • Pharmacy Reconciliation Extended
  • Long-Term Care Capitation Funding
  • Expanded Injection Authority for Pharmacists

ODB and Third-Party Payor Program Updates

  • Temporary PINs Issued for Humalog®

Drug Shortages

  • Nitroglycerin Spray Shortage

Pharmacy News

  • You’re Invited – RxTalks 2023!
  • Federal Government Unveils 2023 Health Care Budget and National Strategy for Drugs for Rare Diseases
  • Ontario 2023 Budget
  • How Inhalers Contribute to Climate Change

View the Publication

March

Association Highlights

  • RxTalks – Same Great OPA Conference, New and Improved Experience
  • OPA Board Elections Update
  • Article–For Patients across Canada, Pharmacy Teams Are Leading the Way
  • Pharmacy Appreciation Month

Pharmacy Resources

  • Complete the 2023 Canadian Pharmacy Mental Health and Workforce Wellness Survey

Membership Benefits

  • Manulife Critical Illness Insurance

View the Publication

Pharmacy Programs

  • New Minor Ailment Scope of Practice Regulations Proposed by the Ontario College of Pharmacists

Consultations and Submissions

  • Last Call: Deadline to Submit Response to Pharmacy Reconciliation
  • OPA Submission on Amendments to the Pharmacy Act

ODB and Third-Party Payor Program Updates

  • Reminder: Biosimilar Drug Policy
  • PSHCP Updates and Advocacy Tools

Pharmacy News

  • Implementation of Time-Delayed Safes
  • Enjoy Early Bird Pricing for OPA’s
  • Newest In-Person Event: RxTalks
  • Reporting of Adverse Events following Immunization

View the Publication

Association Highlights

  • RxTalks–Save up to $90 with Early Bird Registration!
  • PAM Celebrations Continue!
  • OPA Visits University of Waterloo for PAM

Pharmacy Resources

  • Blog—Strategies for Incorporating Naloxone Dispensing in Pharmacy Practice
  • In-Person Event—Pharmacy Robberies Session with York Regional Police

Membership Benefits

  • Complimentary Trial of RxVigilance

View the Publication


Consultations and Submissions

  • Pharmacy Reconciliation

Pharmacy Programs

  • Pharmacy Minor Ailments Program

COVID-19 Vaccinations and Testing

  • Updated COVID-19 Vaccine Executive Officer Notices
  • COVID-19 Vaccine Planning for Spring 2023
  • COVID-19 Testing Documentation Form

ODB and Third-Party Payor Program Updates

  • Biosimilar Drug Policy

OPA Events and Resources

  • Pharmacy Robberies Session with York Regional Police
  • Time-Delayed Safe Resources

Pharmacy News

  • Routine School Immunization Clinic in Peel Region
  • Canadian Pharmacy Mental Health and Workforce Wellness Survey

View the Publication

Association Highlights

  • Happy Pharmacy Appreciation Month!
  • OPA Board Elections – Call for Nominations
  • Board Update Summary
  • OPA Awards—Nominations Are Open!

Pharmacy Resources

  • Blog—Strategies for Incorporating Naloxone Dispensing in Pharmacy Practice 
  • Pharmacy Robberies Session with York Regional Police – In-Person Event  
  • Canadian Pharmacy Mental Health and Workforce Wellness Survey

Membership Benefits

  • Treat Yourself with OPA MemberPerks

View the Publication

February

Dear Pharmacy Professionals,

As you may be aware, the pharmacy reconciliation payments set out in the
O. Reg. 201/96 of the Ontario Drug Benefit Act (ODBA) are set to be revoked on April 1st, 2023. This reconciliation was part of a savings initiative by the government and has had a direct negative impact of $180 million dollars to community pharmacies since January 1st, 2020, when the regulations were implemented….

View the Publication

COVID-19 Vaccines

  • Moderna COVID-19 Infant Vaccine Supply Interruption

OPA Events

  • OPA Award Nominations
  • Share Your Story for Pharmacy Appreciation Month!
  • Annual General Meeting

Pharmacy Programs

  • Proposed Amendments to the
    Pharmacy Act, 1991

ODB and Third-Party Payor Program Updates

  • ODB Formulary Updates

Pharmacy News

  • NAPRA Statistics on Licensed
    Pharmacy Professionals
  • Ontario Government Announces Plan
    for the Provincial Health Care System

View the Publication

Association Highlights

  • OPA Awards 2023
  • Share your stories for a chance to win an Apple Watch!

Pharmacy Resources

  • Ontario Pharmacy Health Program
  • A Black History to Remember 2023: The Canadian Pharmacy Edition
  • Paxlovid Prescribing – Navigating Uncertainties Webinar Recordings
  • Burden of Health Conditions Attributable to Smoking and Alcohol

Membership Benefits

  • Don’t Miss Your Exclusive OPA Member Discount – Get 15% Off Now! 

View the Publication

Consultations and Submissions

  • 2023 OPA Budget Consultation

OPA Tools and Resources

  • Minor Ailment FAQs
    Time-Delayed Safes in Community Pharmacies

COVID-19 Testing

  • COVID-19 PCR Testing by Ontario Pharmacies

Pharmacy Programs

  • Clarification on Holding/Logging/Unfilled Paxlovid Prescriptions
  • Changes to the Ordering Process for Influenza Vaccines

ODB and Third Party Payor Updates

  • Co-ordination of Benefits: Trillium and Private Payors

Pharmacy News

  • OCP Registration Updates
  • Reminder: Discontinuation of ONE Mail Direct Email Service
  • Citizen Investigation Services Canada

View the Publication

We are pleased to provide you with a special edition of the Professional Practice email. This special edition is in response to the numerous requests and inquiries we have received from members regarding minor ailments and time-delayed safes….

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Association Highlights

  • Save the Dates – RxTalks
  • Black History Month

Pharmacy Resources

  • Blog —How Pharmacists Can Improve Outcomes in Patients with Diabetes
  • Moderna Spikevax Bivalent COVID-19 Vaccine FAQ
  • Paxlovid Webinar

Membership Benefits

  • Get Relief Shifts through Relief Buddy

View the Publication

January

COVID-19 Vaccine Administration and PCR Testing

  • COVID-19 Bivalent Booster Doses
  • Updated Eligibility Criteria for Publicly Funded COVID-19 Testing

Consultations and Submissions

  • OPA’s Submission on Long-Term Care Pharmacy Services

Pharmacy Programs

  • Providing Minor Ailment Services for
  • Patients Without an Ontario Health Card
    OPA Paxlovid Renal Dosing Tool

ODB and Third Party Payor Updates

  • Ontario Drug Benefit Formulary Updates
  • Ontario Drug Programs Reference Manual Updates

Pharmacy News

  • Bell Let’s Talk and Resources for Mental Health
  • Provincial Clinical Viewers Open to Community Pharmacies

View the Publication

Association Highlights

  • Share Your Opinion—OPA Spotlight Survey
  • Early Bird Draw Winners and Welcome Message

Pharmacy Resources

  • Paxlovid Webinar
  • Adalimumab and Biosimilars Professional Development Courses

Membership Benefits

  • Save with OPA MemberPerks
  • Manulife Travel Insurance

View the Publication

Commonly Requested Tools and Resources on Scope of Practice Changes

  • Pharmacist-Led Minor Ailments Assessments
  • Paxlovid Prescribing and Dispensing Services
  • COVID-19 Vaccinations

Consultations and Submissions

  • PHIPA (Personal Health Information Protection Act) Consultation
  • OPA Wage and Benefits Report

ODB and Third Party Payor Updates

  • Ontario Government Transitions ODB Patients to Biosimilar Medications
  • Updates to the Public Service Health Care Plan (PSHCP) Adjudication Service

Pharmacy News

  • OPA Pharmacy Student Job Opportunity Available

View the Publication

Association Highlights

  • Thank You for Your Membership With OPA!
  • Limited-Time Offer on the Minor Ailments Course
  • OPA Wage and Benefits Report
  • OPA Pharmacy Student Job Opportunity Available!

Pharmacy Resources

  • MAPflow and MedMe Health Partner for Ontario Minor Ailments Program
  • Save on GoodLife Memberships

Membership Benefits

  • Save on GoodLife Memberships

View the Publication

2022 Publications

December

Minor Ailments

  • Ontario Government Publicly Announces Minor Ailments Program for Ontarians
  • Executive Officer Notice on Funding for Minor Ailment Services in Ontario Pharmacies
  • Eligibility Criteria and Billing Process
  • Limitations and Restrictions on Minor Ailment Services
  • Executive Officer Notice on Funding for Minor Ailment Services in Ontario Pharmacies

COVID-19 Vaccine Administration

  • Updates to COVID-19 Vaccine Executive Officer Notices
  • Timing of Administration

Consultations and Submissions

  • PHIPA Consultation

Pharmacy Programs

  • Updates to the Administration of Publicly Funded Influenza Vaccine in Ontario Pharmacies

Pharmacy News

  • Recording of OPA’s Paxlovid™ Prescribing Webinar & Panel Available
  • Recording of Getting Ready for Minor Ailments Webinar
  • Prescribing Paxlovid Webinar for Pharmacists Practicing in the Durham Region
  • OPA Pharmacy Student Job Opportunity Available
  • Happy Holidays from OPA!

View the Publication

Association Highlights

  • OPA Pharmacy Student Job Opportunity Available!

Pharmacy Resources

  • Blog Post—The Current Landscape of Compounding Pharmacy
  • Getting Ready for Minor Ailments Webinar Recording
  • MAPflow – Implement Effective and Efficient Minor Ailments Services in Your Pharmacy
  • Therapeutic Option—Focus on Anxiety and Depression in Children and Adolescents

Membership Benefits

  • Focus Mental Wellness

View the Publication

OPA is pleased to announce that after sustained and diligent advocacy, the positive result of negotiations for public funding of Minor Ailments assessment and prescribing can be communicated to pharmacy professionals. We recognize the challenge that pharmacy….

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Pharmacy Programs

  • Paxlovid Prescribing Webinar, Tools, and Resources
  • Paxlovid Shelf-Life Extension
  • Quarterly Report Back Form No Longer Required for the Ontario Naloxone Program for Pharmacies
  • Ontario Naloxone Pharmacy Program and Employer Eligibility
  • Updates to Clinical Guidance on Evusheld
  • Clarification Regarding FluMist Administration

COVID-19 Vaccinations and Testing

  • Ministry Distribution of COVID-19 Vaccine Ancillary Supplies
  • Moderna Spikevax Bivalent COVID-19 Vaccine FAQ
  • CovaxON Updates
  • Distribution of Self-Administered COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Tests in 2023

ODB and Third-Party Payor Program Updates

  • Transition of Adjudication Service for La Capitale/Beneva

Pharmacy News

  • Resources for Managing the Current Pediatric Drug Shortages
    Pharmacy Student Opportunity at OPA
    Level Up with a 2023 OPA Membership

View the Publication

Yesterday, OPA sent out an Important Update email informing our members that as of December 12th, 2022, Part A pharmacists will be authorized to prescribe Paxlovid for COVID-19 treatment in accordance with regulations under the Regulated Health Professions Act…

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OPA would like to provide a correction to the patient eligibility for the assessment, prescribing and dispensing of Paxlovid in our Important Update email sent this morning. The current eligibility criteria in effect for the implementation of this new scope of practice is as follows…

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In a submission to the Ontario government dated October 3rd, OPA recommended that the Ontario government enable pharmacists to assess and prescribe for oral antiviral medications given the unique clinical expertise, knowledge, and accessibility…

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Association Highlights

  • Renew Your OPA Membership the Early Bird Deadline is Approaching!
  • Board Update Summary
  • Clarification Regarding FluMist Administration
  • Introducing MAPflow—a Powerful New Digital Health Tool

Pharmacy Resources

  • Moderna Spikevax Bivalent COVID-19 Vaccine FAQ
  • Blog Post—The Current Landscape of Compounding Pharmacy
  • Upcoming Webinars
  • Pharmacy Safety In-Person Event Questionnaire

View the Publication

November

OPA Membership Benefits

  • 2023 Membership Renewal
  • Minor Ailment Prescribing Tool: MAPflow

Pediatric Acetaminophen and Ibuprofen Drug Shortage

  • Updates on Domestic and Imported Supply of Children’s Acetaminophen Products
  • Ibuprofen and Acetaminophen Compounding Formulas

ODB and Third-Party Payor Program Updates

  • ODB Formulary Updates

Pharmacy News

  • Reminder: Clinical Viewers Sign-Up Available for All Community Pharmacies
  • Executive Officer Notice: Transition of ONE Mail Account to Outlook

View the Publication

Association Highlights

  • OPA 2023 Membership is Now Open
  • Getting Ready for Minor Ailments: The Right Dose Special Edition Webinar
  • Deadline Approaching: Join the Opioid and Pain Management in Pharmacy Program Advisory Group

Pharmacy Resources

  • ICYMI: How Pharmacists Can Improve Outcomes in Patients with Diabetes — Blog Post

Membership Benefits

  • TELUS Mobility Black Friday Deals
  • Join GoodLife Fitness and You Could Win
  • Get a Quote from The Co-operators and Receive a Gift Card

View the Publication

Pediatric Acetaminophen and Ibuprofen Drug Shortage

  • Health Canada Announcement on the Supply of Children’s Acetaminophen Products
  • Health Canada Clarification on Compounding Pediatric Acetaminophen and Ibuprofen
  • Medisca Acetaminophen Compounding Formulas

COVID-19 Vaccine Administration

  • Ministry Screening Tool for COVID-19 Vaccination of High-Risk Demographics
  • Moderna Spikevax Bivalent COVID-19 Vaccine FAQ
  • COVaxON Updates

ODB and Third-Party Payor Program Updates

  • Epinephrine Auto-Injector Coverage through the Allergen Program

OPA Virtual Events

  • Getting Ready for Minor Ailments Prescribing
    OPA Townhall

Pharmacy News

  • Paxlovid Shelf-Life Extension
    FluMist Resources and FAQs

View the Publication

Association Highlights

  • Join the Opioid and Pain Management in Pharmacy Program Advisory Group

Pharmacy Resources

  • Pharmacy Safety and Security – Robbery Prevention In-Person Event
  • How Pharmacists Can Improve Outcomes in Patients with Diabetes — Blog Post
  • Moderna Spikevax Bivalent COVID-19 Vaccine FAQ

Membership Benefits

  • Don’t Miss Your Exclusive OPA Member Discount – Get 15% Off Pharmacist’s Letter Canada! 
  • RxVigilance—Clinical and Reference Software

Professional Development News

  • Improving the Management of Diabetes in Insulin-Dependent Patients Webinar Series
  • Limited Time Offer—Save on the Prescribing for Minor Ailments – The Fundamentals Course

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On November 8th, 2022, the Ministry of Health released updated Executive Officer (EO) Notices related to the COVID-19 vaccine program in Ontario. Highlights of updates to the EO notices and accompanying guidance documents include…

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Consultations and Submissions

  • OPA’s Proposal on Minor Ailment Funding
  • OPA’s Recommendations on Policy Priorities

COVID-19 Vaccine Administration

  • FAQs on COVID-19 Vaccine Booster Doses
    COVaxON Updates
  • COVID-19 Testing

COVID-19 PCR Testing in Ontario Pharmacies

  • Pharmacy Programs
  • UIIP Program Reminders
  • McKesson Memo on Influenza Vaccine Orders

ODB and Third-Party Payor Program Updates

  • ODB Formulary Updates

Pharmacy News

  • Discount on OPA’s Minor Ailment Course
  • Access to Archived OPA Email Communications
  • OCP Survey on Time Delayed Safes

View the Publication

October

Association Highlights

  • OPA’s Guide to Pharmacy Safety: Increase Safety Measures and Take Preventative Actions

Pharmacy Resources

  • Blog Post — A Decade of Immunizations: Pharmacy Professionals and Vaccinations
  • Canadian Patient Safety Week
  • Upcoming Webinars

Membership Benefit

  • Win 1 of 2 Pharmacy Technician OPA Memberships with Relief Buddy!

View the Publication

COVID-19 Vaccine Administration

  • COVaxON Updates

COVID-19 Testing

  • Updates to OPA’s COVID-19 PCR Testing Documentation Form
    Pharmacy Programs
    UIIP Program Reminders

Pharmacy Programs

  • UIIP Program Reminders

ODB and Third-Party Payor Program Updates

  • Sun Life Transition from Telus/Assure to ESC Canada
Pharmacy Webinars
  • Evusheld: Preventing COVID-19 in High-Risk Patients Webinar
  • Eliminating Cervical Cancer – Diagnosis and Treatment of Cervical Cancer
Pharmacy News
  • Health Canada Issues Statement on Pediatric Tylenol and Advil Shortage
  • Health Products Stewardship Association Educational Materials on Medication Disposal 
  • OPA Pharmacy Safety Tools 
  • OPA Website Scheduled Maintenance

View the Publication

Today the Ontario government announced that effective Monday October 17th, 2022, individuals 12 years of age and older will be eligible for a booster dose of the Pfizer Bivalent vaccine. The Ministry is recommending that individuals receive the bivalent booster 6 months (168 days) after their previous COVID-19 vaccine. However, with informed consent, individuals may receive a booster dose of the bivalent vaccine after 3 months…

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Association Highlights

  • Pharmacogenetics: The Future of Patient Care Signature Learning Series
  • Pillar of Pharmacy Award

Pharmacy Resources

  • Blog Post — The Current Landscape of Compounding Pharmacy
  • Evusheld: Preventing COVID-19 in High-Risk Patients
  • ICYMI: Webinar Recordings

Insurance Update

  • Manulife Term Life Insurance Plan

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The Ministry of Health has updated the Executive Officer Notices related to COVID-19 testing in Ontario pharmacies. The updates have been made to align with the most recent changes to the COVID-19 Provincial Testing Guidance…

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COVID-19 Vaccine Administration

  • Updated OPA Moderna Spikevax COVID-19 Tool

Pharmacy Programs

  • OPA’s UIIP Consent and Screening Form Now Available
  • Ordering Process for the 2022/2023 UIIP Season
  • UIIP Tools and Resources

ODB and Third-Party Payor Program Updates

  • ODB Formulary Updates

Pharmacy News

  • Flu Shots, COVID Boosters, and Immunizations Webinar
  • Updated Features: SADIE

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On October 3rd, 2022, the Ministry of Health released Executive Officer Notices on patient access to publicly funded Evusheld through Ontario pharmacies…

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September

Association Highlights

  • Board Meeting Update
  • Health Care Provider and Patient Resources for New Methadone Products

Pharmacy Resources

  • National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
  • Blog Post––– The Pharmacist’s Role in Prevention of HPV-Related Cancers
  • Key Findings from CPhA’s National Flu Shot Survey
  • Apotex APOthecary Heroes Contest

Membership Benefits

  • Relief Buddy is Giving Away Two Pharmacy Technician Memberships
  • Venngo Summer Giveaway Winners

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Today the Ministry of Health released updated Executive Officer Notices related to the COVID-19 vaccine program in Ontario…

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COVID-19 Vaccine Administration

  • Reminder: Moderna Bivalent Vaccine Eligibility Expansion
  • COVID-19 Vaccines in Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
  • New Formulation of the Pediatric Pfizer COVID-19 Vaccine

COVaxON Updates

  • Inventory Production Defect in COVaxON

ODB and Third-Party Payor Program Updates

  • Scheduled HNS and NMS Outage
  • Update on the Adjudication Service for La Capitale/Beneva

Pharmacy News

  • World Pharmacists Day
  • OPA Pharmacy Safety Tools
  • Blog Post— An Inside Look into Professional
  • Affairs at OPA: A Pharmacy Student’s Perspective
  • Updated Shingrix Indication
  • Specialty Pharmacy Summit

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On September 20th, 2022, the Ministry of Health released Executive Officer Notices regarding the Administration of Publicly Funded Influenza Vaccines in Ontario Pharmacies. Since the inception of the UIIP pharmacy program in 2012, pharmacists have played a crucial role in vaccinating Ontarians against the influenza virus…

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Association Highlights

  • OPA Pharmacy Student Job Opportunity Available!

Pharmacy Resources

  • Protecting the Population Against COVID-19 Signature Learning Series
  • Focus on Osteoporosis Therapeutic Option
  • Upcoming Webinar— Keeping Your Pharmacy and Staff Safe from Robberies
  • Research Study: Recruiting Health Care Providers for a Medical Cannabis Survey

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Today the Ontario government, in consultation with the Chief Medical Officer of Health, announced the eligibility criteria for booster doses of the Moderna bivalent vaccine. The rollout of the vaccination campaign will consist of two phases, with the bivalent vaccine becoming available to high-priority demographics first, followed by expansion to a wider group of individuals…

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As Ontario continues to manage the COVID-19 virus, the province is expanding access for Moderna Bivalent to community pharmacies. Effective September 9th, 2022, McKesson is allowing for ordering of the Moderna Bivalent vaccine outside of the normal prebook process. As vaccine program expansion typically begins with priority populations, pharmacy professionals should consider the anticipated demand for this demographic within their community when placing initial orders…

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COVID-19 Vaccine Administration

  • Health Canada Authorizes Bivalent COVID-19 Vaccines
  • Pre-Book Orders of the Moderna Bivalent Vaccine
  • COVID-19 Executive Officer Notices on Vaccines

Pharmacy Programs

  • UIIP 2022/2023 Implementation Materials

ODB and Third-Party Payor Program Updates

  • New Methadone Product Added to the Monitored Drug List

Pharmacy News

  • OCP Announces Requirements for Minor Ailments Prescribing Course
  • The Ontario Pharmacists Association Condemns Acts of Violence Against Pharmacy Professionals
  • Pharmacy Student Opportunity Available
  • Upcoming Complimentary Webinars

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