Quebec expands pharmacist scope of practice starting December 9

The Quebec Ministry of Health has announced an expansion of the professional scope of practice for pharmacists, effective December 9. Under the new regulations, pharmacists will have the authority to renew prescriptions indefinitely based on their professional judgment, removing the previous six-month limit that required patients to consult a physician for renewals.

Pharmacists will also gain increased autonomy to treat common conditions such as head lice, certain respiratory infections, vaginitis, and shingles. Furthermore, their role in managing chronic diseases will expand. While they already manage conditions like hypertension, type 2 diabetes, and cholesterol, the new mandate includes managing generalized anxiety disorder, major depressive disorders, and heart failure.

Benoit Morin, president of the Association québécoise des pharmaciens propriétaires (AQPP), noted that while pharmacists can now initiate or adjust treatments—such as antidepressants—teams will require time to undergo training and adapt their facilities. Health Minister Sonia Bélanger stated the goal is to allow pharmacists to do more for patients based on their specific situations and available services.