The Ontario Pharmacy Council was established in November 2006 to provide a forum for pharmacists and the ministry to discuss drug-related policy. The 12-member Council, appointed by the Minister of Health and Long-Term Care, provides expert advice to Ontario Public Drug Programs on pharmaceutical policy, the delivery of pharmaceutical services in Ontario and the development of education and training programs.

One of Pharmacy Council's major achievements in 2007 was the creation of MedsCheck, a medication review program that supports the appropriate use of medications. MedsCheck was launched on April 1, 2007 with the collaboration of the Council, the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care, and the Ontario Pharmacists' Association.

Mandate
The mandate of the Pharmacy Council is to make recommendations to the Executive Officer of Ontario Public Drug Programs and the Minister of Health and Long-Term Care related to the definition and implementation of pharmacists' professional services, and on the necessary infrastructure and supports for the implementation of professional services.

Membership
Up to twelve members, including two Co-Chairs are appointed to the Pharmacy Council membership.

Terms of Reference
More details are available in the complete Terms of Reference

Meeting Summaries
The first Pharmacy Council meeting was held in December 2006.

For additional MedsCheck information and resources visit www.medscheck.ca

• Advisory Bodies To Pharmacy Council
• Pharmacy Council Resources
• Ontario Pharmacy Council, Professional Pharmacy Services Categories
• MedsCheck Statistics, April 1, 2007 to March 31, 2008
• Ontario Pharmacy Council - The Year in Review
  December 2006 - December 2007