WARMAN — More pharmacies in Saskatchewan can now conduct strep throat testing.
On Friday, the province announced 11 more pharmacies have been added to its step throat testing pilot project, joining 11 others already conducting the testing along with ear infection assessments.
“This pilot expansion is another example of how we are putting patients first by enhancing access to primary care, particularly in rural and remote communities,” said Health Minister Jeremy Cockrill.
Michael Fougere, CEO of the Saskatchewan Pharmacy Association, said this is a positive step forward for better primary care for residents who cannot access a doctor.
“Many times, the pharmacist is the only health-care provider in that community. [So], you get that help right away and don't have to worry about travelling to a larger centre.”
Fougere referenced wait times for testing at pharmacies can take under 10 minutes, while medical centres and doctor offices can take hours.
“It's certainly going to alleviate the pain more quickly for patients.”
Along with strep-throat testing, 24 sites will continue to offer ear infection assessments only.
Since the pilot project started in January, 3,302 patients have been treated for strep-throat at pharmacies, while another 1,025 were checked for suspected ear infections, according to the government.
“Those numbers indicate that the people are aware of it, and they want to use it. And they're clearly taking pressure off emergency centres and clinics as well,” said Fougere.
The Ministry of Health is currently evaluating how pharmacy testing is relieving stress on the healthcare field, said Fougere.
As for adding more pharmacies, the government said evaluation results could dictate further expansion.
Currently, they’re are almost 1,300 practising pharmacists in more than 430 licensed community pharmacies in Saskatchewan, says the government.
More Information on locations offering strep-throat and ear assessments can be found here.
