Humber Bay Pharmacy Health Blog

Medication shortages have become an increasingly pressing issue, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. As supply chain disruptions and increased demand strain the healthcare system, compounding pharmacies have emerged as a critical lifeline for patients in need. A recent article from the University of Waterloo News highlights the experiences of Joseph Abdelnour, a Waterloo School of Pharmacy co-op student, at Avalon Compound Pharmacy (ACP) during a time of unprecedented medication shortages.
Compounding pharmacies like ACP play a crucial role in creating prescribed medications in-house for patients when commercially available products are in short supply. Unlike retail pharmacies, which can only offer medications they order from distributors, compounding pharmacies have the expertise and facilities to prepare customized medications on-site. This unique capability has proven invaluable during the recent shortage of children's cold medications in Ottawa, where pharmacists were advising patients to visit emergency rooms or seek out compounding pharmacies for help.

Abdelnour's co-op experience at ACP during this challenging time underscores the vital role of compounding pharmacies and the dedication of their staff. Despite the overwhelming demand for medications, Abdelnour and his supervisor worked tirelessly to compound more medications during their ten-hour shifts while ensuring that quality standards were upheld. This increased workload, coupled with the need to reassure stressed patients and educate them about the role of compounding pharmacies, made for a demanding but rewarding experience.

The article also highlights the importance of co-op programs in the pharmaceutical industry. As Andrew Hanna, Abdelnour's pharmacist supervisor at ACP, notes, "Co-op students are extremely valuable to the industry. Students can explore different opportunities in pharmacy while learning hands-on skills, but we also learn from them. Every student brings unique value through their knowledge and skills." This mutual benefit underscores the significance of hands-on learning experiences in preparing the next generation of pharmacists to tackle the challenges of an ever-evolving healthcare landscape.

Abdelnour's experience at ACP also sheds light on the need for expanded roles for pharmacists in supporting community health. As he reflects, "Pharmacists should be given further expanded scope of practice so we can train to do more to help the community." This sentiment rings especially true during times of crisis, when the expertise and dedication of pharmacists can make a significant difference in patient outcomes.

At Humber Bay Compounding Pharmacy, we understand the critical role that compounding pharmacies play in ensuring patients have access to the medications they need, even during shortages. Our experienced team of pharmacists and technicians is committed to providing the highest quality compounded medications while maintaining rigorous safety and quality standards. We also recognize the value of hands-on learning experiences and are proud to offer co-op opportunities for pharmacy students to gain practical skills and contribute to our mission of supporting community health.
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If you or a loved one are facing challenges due to medication shortages, we encourage you to reach out to our team at Humber Bay Compounding Pharmacy. We are here to help you navigate these difficult times and ensure that you have access to the personalized medications you need to maintain your health and well-being.
Visit us at https://www.humberbaypharmacy.com/ and learn more about our compounding services at https://www.humberbaypharmacy.com/compounding.html.