Feb 3, 2006

The Manitoba Ombudsman and the Manitoba Pharmaceutical Association have issued a joint commentary on the practice of pharmacists recording an individual’s personal health information when providing levonorgestrel emergency contraception (Plan B).

In recent weeks, there have been several media reports about emergency contraception medication. The Commentary seeks to clarify the provision of this medication.

Manitoba’s Personal Health Information Act (PHIA) outlines how identifiable personal health information can be recorded. The Ombudsman is the oversight authority under PHIA and may comment on the implications on privacy of programs or practices of trustees. As health professionals, pharmacists are trustees of personal health information under PHIA.

The joint Commentary is available on the Manitoba Ombudsman’s web site. Copies of the Commentary are also available at the Office of the Manitoba Ombudsman, 750-500 Portage Avenue, Winnipeg, Manitoba, R3C 3X1.

The Manitoba Pharmaceutical Association has also issued a Notice to the profession that reminds pharmacists of issues relating to the provision of emergency contraception. The Notice is available on the MPhA web site.

For more information on PHIA, contact: Irene Hamilton, Manitoba Ombudsman, at (204) 982-9130 or 1-800-665-0531 (in Manitoba).

For more information on role of the pharmacist when providing levonorgestrel emergency contraception, contact: Ronald Guse, Registrar, The Manitoba Pharmaceutical Association, at (204) 233-1411.