Celebrating Pharmacy Appreciation Month in Prince Edward Island
March is Pharmacy Appreciation Month, a time to recognize the pharmacists, pharmacy technicians, and pharmacy assistants who play an essential role in helping Islanders access health care.
For many people, the local pharmacy has become the first stop for advice, treatment, and support, particularly since the launch of Pharmacy Plus PEI three years ago, improving access to care across the province.
“Pharmacists are becoming an increasingly integral piece of the healthcare puzzle. Whether it’s renewing prescriptions, managing ailments, or giving vaccinations, they’re stepping up in ways that’s helping make healthcare more accessible for everyone.”
-Trevor Paynter, director of pharmacare, Department of Health and Wellness
In PEI, pharmacists can assess and treat 35 common ailments, including urinary tract infections, allergic rhinitis, cough, cold sores, sore throat, and heartburn. They can also prescribe contraception and provide support through the PEI Smoking Cessation program.
As of February 17, 2026, pharmacies have completed more than 259,000 assessments, with prescription renewals accounting for nearly two thirds of all visits, helping reduce pressure on walk-in clinics and emergency departments.
Pharmacies are the primary access point for community vaccinations in PEI as well. Over the past year, pharmacy teams administered 30,094 flu vaccines, 21,239 COVID-19 vaccines, and 6,090 shingles vaccines.
“Across the province, Islanders depend on their community pharmacy to be a healthcare hub, providing professional services that support healthy communities,” says Erin MacKenzie, executive director of the PEI Pharmacy Association.
As pharmacy teams continue to take on new responsibilities and expanded services, their role within the health system has never been more important.
“We are incredibly appreciative of our pharmacists and their teams,” adds Trevor. “They have adapted to many major changes over the past few years to help Islanders receive the care they need and to ease pressure in other areas of the health system.”
This Pharmacy Appreciation Month, we thank PEI’s pharmacy teams for their dedication and the care they provide to people in their communities across the Island.
To learn what services are available at a local pharmacy and to book ahead, visit Pharmacy Plus PEI.