Pharmacist services expanding this fall

New legislation coming into effect on P.E.I. this fall will allow pharmacists to do a lot more for patients.

They will be allowed to give flu shots and other immunizations, as well as write prescriptions for minor ailments.

Pharmacies will also have separate exam rooms where people can have appointments to discuss their health issues. Neila Auld, registrar for the P.E.I. Pharmacy Board, said the changes have been in the works for a long time.

"All of this will negate you having to go to either emergency, to walk in clinics, to your physician," said Auld.

"It makes it more accessible to the people."

The government is expected to give final approval in about two weeks.

The cost for the new services is still being worked out, but service fees are expected. Flu shots will be free to many people, but other visits will likely come with a cost. It is up to pharmacies to set them.

In Nova Scotia, which has a similar system, appointments cost about $20.