Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are among the top five reasons people end up in emergency rooms in Canada. This study found patients with uncomplicated UTIs can be quickly treated through pharmacists. New Brunswick pharmacists can prescribe for uncomplicated urinary tract infections but the service isn’t funded by Medicare if provided by a pharmacist - meaning patients pay out of pocket for the visit. In the study, pharmacists performed assessments and either prescribed, provided education, or referred patients to a physician. At the two-week follow-up, 88.9% of patients reported their symptoms had been resolved. The study also found that, on average, patients were able to access a pharmacist a day sooner than a physician. The authors believe if patients have access to medication for a UTI from a pharmacist, the number of people going to emergency rooms could be reduced.
NBHC Care Experience