March is Pharmacy Appreciation Month (PAM) in Canada, a time to celebrate the incredible contributions of pharmacists and pharmacy teams nationwide. These professionals are at the forefront of accessible health care, ensuring Canadians receive the support they need when needed.
Pharmacists: Canada’s Most Accessible Health-Care Professionals
Pharmacists are more than just medication dispensers; they are often the first point of contact for patients seeking health advice. Of the 10,432 pharmacies across the country, more than 70% are located in local communities, ensuring that most Canadians live within five kilometres of a pharmacy.
On average, Canadians visit their pharmacists 1.5 to 10 times more often than their primary care physicians. This high level of accessibility allows pharmacists to provide essential services such as medication management, chronic disease support, and health screenings.
Pharmacists Reduce Pressure on the Healthcare System
Pharmacists play a critical role in reducing pressure on Canada’s healthcare system by offering prescribing services for minor ailments, administering vaccines, and managing chronic diseases. This expanded role contributes an estimated $4.7 billion in value annually, demonstrating the cost-saving benefits of pharmacist-led care.
Expanding Responsibilities: More Than Just Prescriptions
Pharmacists in provinces like Ontario and British Columbia can now assess and prescribe medications for minor conditions, significantly improving patient care accessibility. By offering flu shots, COVID-19 boosters, and routine vaccinations, pharmacists are making it easier for Canadians to stay on top of their health without long clinic wait times.
Did You Know?
- Pharmacy Technicians: There are 11,541 registered pharmacy technicians in Canada working alongside pharmacists to ensure the safe and effective delivery of medications.
- Pharmacies Nationwide: Canada boasts 10,432 licensed pharmacies, serving communities from coast to coast.
- Community Presence: Approximately 70% of pharmacists work in community pharmacies, 15% in hospitals, and the remaining 15% in other settings such as industry or government roles.
How You Can Show Appreciation for Your Pharmacist
Pharmacists do so much more than just fill prescriptions; they answer your health questions, offer expert advice, and even help you avoid unnecessary trips to the doctor. However, despite being one of the most accessible healthcare professionals, their hard work often goes unnoticed.
If you want to show a little extra appreciation this Pharmacy Appreciation Month, here are some simple ways to do it:
- Say a genuine thank you. A small moment of gratitude can go a long way. Next time you pick up a prescription, let your pharmacist know you appreciate them.
- Leave a great review. Most people check online reviews before choosing a pharmacy. A few kind words on Google or social media could make a big difference.
- Support your local pharmacy. While big chains have their place, independent pharmacies are a massive part of many communities. Choosing to shop locally helps keep these businesses going.
- Spread the word. Not everyone realizes just how much pharmacists do. Share a fun fact or personal story on social media to help raise awareness about their role in healthcare.
Show Your Appreciation This March
Pharmacy Appreciation Month is the perfect time to recognize the hard work and dedication of pharmacy professionals across Canada. Whether they are helping you manage a new prescription, providing expert medical advice, or supporting public health initiatives, pharmacists are an indispensable part of the modern healthcare system.
This March, thank your local pharmacists for their expertise and dedication to ensure that quality health consultations and patient care remain accessible to all Canadians.
Visit any of our 19 Sunshine Drugs locations or follow us on social media to learn more about Pharmacy Appreciation Month and how we can support you!
References
Canadian Pharmacists Association. “Pharmacy Appreciation Month (PAM).” Canadian Pharmacists Association, 2025, https://www.pharmacists.ca/news-events/events/pharmacy-appreciation-month-pam/. Accessed March 2025.
Mapflow. “Strategic Planning Guide for Pharmacy Success in 2025.” Mapflow, 2025, https://www.mapflow.ca/blog/strategic-planning-guide-for-pharmacy-success-in-2025. Accessed March 2025.
Canadian Pharmacists Association. “Scope of Practice.” Canadian Pharmacists Association, 2025, https://www.pharmacists.ca/advocacy/scope-of-practice/. Accessed March 2025.
National Association of Pharmacy Regulatory Authorities. “National Statistics.” National Association of Pharmacy Regulatory Authorities, 2025, https://www.napra.ca/resources/national-statistics/. Accessed March 2025.
Canadian Pharmacists Association. “Pharmacists in Canada.” Canadian Pharmacists Association, https://www.pharmacists.ca/pharmacy-in-canada/pharmacists-in-canada/. Accessed March 2025.