Building a Community-Owned Pharmacy for a BC First Nation

A BC First Nation has identified a need to increase access to culturally-safe pharmacy services for the community. Currently, the Nation’s pharmacy needs are serviced by a singular pharmacy. As a profession, pharmacy is deeply rooted in a colonial and Eurocentric view of western values, evidence-based medicine, and a transactional approach to care provision. In response to the Truth and Reconciliation, UNDRIP, and In Plain Sight, self-determination and self-governance is an increasing priority for communities. As communities move towards development of their own Indigenous-owned and operated solutions, pharmacy can play an important role. This project developed a report describing current pharmacy services and practices in the community and identifying opportunities for further development of a community-owned, Nation-based pharmacy. The report for this project was created based on a review of relevant literature and virtual interviews with community members and local healthcare professionals. An outline of the current landscape of pharmacies as well as options and considerations for the opening and operation of a Nation-owned pharmacy are explored.