The Arthritis Society partners with McKesson Canada on exclusive pain management program

TORONTO — The Arthritis Society has partnered with McKesson Canada's four retail banners Guardian, I.D.A., PROXIM and the Medicine Shoppe Canada pharmacies to launch an exclusive pain management program to support Canadians living with arthritis directly in their communities.

 

Designed by The Arthritis Society, the unique pain management program will be rolled out in participating pharmacies in autumn 2014 under the Diem therapeutic brand. Pharmacists who have been trained and certified under the program will be able to provide tailored health services to those living with arthritis, including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. 

 

"Customized patient care is at the heart of the programs and services we offer," stated Jim Snowdon, Guardian pharmacist. "Thanks to this unique Diem pain management offering, Canadians living with arthritis will be able to obtain holistic therapeutic support from their neighborhood Guardian, I.D.A., PROXIM and the Medicine Shoppe pharmacist."

 

"This new initiative will make a true difference in the lives of Canadians living with arthritis by giving them increased access to professional, qualified care down the street and across the counter," added Janet Yale, president and CEO of The Arthritis Society. "By increasing the convenience and ease with which Canadians can receive specialized counsel, this program will help those with arthritis get the help they need to live with less pain and greater independence."

 

"Pharmacy in Canada is undergoing a major transformation, as provincial governments expand the scope of professional services that pharmacists can offer and shift patient care into community settings," noted Dale Weil, interim SVP retail banner management services at McKesson Canada, which operates the four retail pharmacy banners. "Through our network of 1,350 stores from coast to coast to coast, Guardian, I.D.A., PROXIM and the Medicine Shoppe pharmacists are responding to the growing needs of Canadians living with chronic disease and complex medical conditions by providing customized patient care."