Ontario Regulation 256/24, established under the Pharmacy Act of 1991, provides a comprehensive framework for the registration of pharmacists, pharmacy technicians, and interns in Ontario. This regulation aims to ensure the competency and professional integrity of pharmacy professionals while clarifying the requirements for different classes of certificates.

The regulation begins with essential definitions that are crucial for understanding its application. Key terms include “direct supervision,” which refers to oversight by a person physically present during practice, along with distinctions between various roles, such as “Part A pharmacist” and “Part B pharmacist.” It also clarifies the definition of a “pharmacy” within the context of the Drug and Pharmacies Regulation Act, encompassing both community and institutional pharmacies.

In terms of general provisions for certificates of registration, the regulation outlines several classes of certificates: Pharmacist, Intern, Pharmacy Technician, Intern Technician, and those for emergency assignments. It introduces a two-part registration system that consists of Part A (patient care) and Part B (no patient care), mandating that all interns and those in emergency assignments be listed in Part A. Pharmacists and pharmacy technicians must select between Part A and Part B during their registration and renewal processes, with specific conditions for transferring between the two; failure to meet renewal requirements could result in a transfer to Part B.

For pharmacists, specific registration criteria include obtaining a baccalaureate degree in pharmacy from an accredited program or completing an approved bridging program, with strict time limits for degree completion and assessment results to emphasize ongoing education and competency evaluation. Notably, past attempts at qualifying examinations are regulated, including guidelines on the maximum number of attempts allowed.

Intern applicants must have completed their pharmacy degree within two years of applying, with intern certificates expiring automatically upon the issuance of a pharmacist certificate or one year after registration, unless extended by the Registration Committee. They must practice under the direct supervision of a qualified pharmacist. Similarly, pharmacy technicians must meet specific educational requirements and pass qualifying examinations within a defined timeframe, completing assessments in pharmaceutical jurisprudence, ethics, and professionalism. The regulation emphasizes the necessity of professional liability insurance for pharmacy technicians.

By delineating clear categories of registration and setting rigorous standards for education, competence, and professional conduct, the regulation seeks to uphold the integrity of pharmacy practice and ensure safe and effective patient care. This comprehensive framework reflects a commitment to the ongoing professional development of pharmacists and pharmacy technicians, emphasizing the importance of competence and ethical practice in the healthcare system.

Ontario (256/24) July 6, 2024