The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is pleased that the legislative amendments to the Pharmaceutical Services Act have passed the third reading in the House of Assembly.
The amendments are designed to reflect the modern practice of prescribing controlled substances, streamline processes to enhance efficiencies and reduce red tape for medical providers by accommodating telephone prescriptions and prescription transfers from pharmacy to pharmacy without a tamper-resistant prescription. They would also align the Act with the Federal Controlled Drugs and Substances Regulations. Additionally, these amendments support the use of electronic transmission of prescriptions directly from the prescriber to the pharmacy.
The use of a tamper-resistant prescription pad will still be required for controlled substances when a patient is given a physical copy of a prescription to submit to a pharmacy.
The Provincial Government consulted with the College of Pharmacists of Newfoundland and Labrador on this legislation.The amendment reduces administrative burden on prescribers and pharmacists and complements other actions in Budget 2026 to support health care providers.
Quote
“Our new government is taking action to support our frontline health care providers. These amendments reflect modern prescribing practices and reduce administrative burden so prescribers and pharmacists have more time to provide the care to Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.”
Honourable Lela Evans
Minister of Health and Community Services
-30-
Follow us on X @GovNL and @HCS_GovNL
Like us on Facebook