As part of Pharmacist Awareness Week from March 6 to 12, the BC Pharmacy Association (BCPhA) is encouraging British Columbians to talk to their pharmacist before they go on their spring break vacation.

A conversation with a pharmacist can make the difference between a healthy, happy spring break and an exhausting trip sitting in unfamiliar doctors鈥� offices or running around looking for replacement medications in a foreign country. Make sure you speak to your local pharmacist before you get on a plane or take that road trip.

鈥淗aving to find a doctor and get replacement medications in a foreign country can be difficult and time-consuming, particularly if you don鈥檛 speak the local language,鈥� said Marnie Mitchell, BCPhA CEO. 鈥淚f you have a conversation with your pharmacist before you go away you will be better prepared to manage any medical conditions during spring break.鈥�

Before you go on a spring break journey, holiday your local pharmacist can:

鈥� Review your medication to make sure it has not expired or will expire while you鈥檙e away;

• 鈥� Help you adjust your dosing schedule to make sure you avoid missing doses when travelling across time zones;
• 鈥� Arrange for backup supplies of prescriptions in case you lose your luggage;
• 鈥� Give advice on how to avoid travel sickness and prevent travelers鈥� diarrhea;
• 鈥� Provide advice on any over-the-counter medications you might need for your trip, such as sunscreen;
• 鈥� Your pharmacist may also be able to administer injections.

These are just some of the pre-travel services British Columbians can find at pharmacies throughout the province.

Pharmacists are an invaluable resource for patients looking for expert advice on medications, accessing vaccines or getting help managing chronic conditions such as diabetes or asthma.

BCPhA represents more than 2,300 pharmacists and 720 pharmacies in B.C. who provide trusted advice and accessible care to patients throughout British Columbia. More information is available at .

鈥� BC Pharmacy Association