Pubdate: Thu, 11 Sep 2008
Source: Province, The (CN BC)
Copyright: 2008 Canwest Publishing Inc.
Contact: http://www.canada.com/theprovince/letters.html
Website: http://www.canada.com/theprovince/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/476
Author: Marnie Mitchell
Referenced: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v08/n850/a05.html

PHARMACISTS RESPOND

The recent media attention regarding the practice of paying 
"kickbacks" to methadone patients is just as concerning to the 
British Columbia Pharmacy Association as it is to the public.

Pharmacists are highly trained professionals who care deeply for 
their patients. Paying "kickbacks" is not mainstream practice.

The association hopes a quick and thorough investigation will provide 
answers that will resolve outstanding issues.

The association does not support practices that undermine patient 
care and that fall outside ethical guidelines. Serving the community 
featured in the recent articles can be challenging.

The large majority of pharmacists are doing good work to care of 
their patients, support the community and, above all, improve health.

When allegations of kickbacks have been brought to our attention, the 
association takes all immediate and necessary steps to inform the 
ministry of health.

We support all investigations of misconduct and support high ethical 
and moral standards.

Marnie Mitchell, CEO B.C. Pharmacy Association
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom