Drug programs

CPSBC's drug programs are based on data-driven quality assurance initiatives that encourage licensees to prescribe according to evidence-based best practices and accepted clinical standards.

These initiatives protect patients and promote safe prescribing, and are aligned with the Health Professions and Occupations Act and CPSBC Bylaws.

Ensuring licensees provide safe care to their patients

To encourage licensees to prescribe according to evidence-based best practices and accepted clinical standards

CPSBC's drug programs commitment to patient safety is demonstrated through:

practice standards
educational courses and conferences on good prescribing practices
educational and remedial activities on prescribing practices of concern
reducing prescription forgeries and drug diversion
guiding safe prescribing of potentially harmful medications

Prescribing drugs is an essential component of the practice of medicine

The drug programs focus on medications that are commonly prescribed and medications that carry great risk of harm to patients. Licensees are expected to stay up-to-date on emerging evidence and best practices as part of their continuing medical education.

Licensees can book a consultation with a medical assessor for guidance.

CPSBC does not direct patient care

The drug programs review prescribing principles and recommend educational and remedial activities to licensees. Program staff cannot intervene or ask a licensee to prescribe or not prescribe specific medications.

Patients are responsible for following a licensee's special directions. This includes following drug safety measures such as pill counts and urine drug screens.

If a patient believes they have received unacceptable care they can file a complaint.

Controlled Prescription Programarrow_right_alt

Order duplicate prescription padsarrow_right_alt

Prescription Review Programarrow_right_alt

Sign up for courses and conferencesarrow_right_alt

Guidance on prescribing

CPSBC's drug programs focus on medications that are commonly prescribed and medications that carry great risk of harm to patients. Licensees are expected to stay up-to-date on emerging evidence and best practices as part of their continuing medical education.