Important considerations for regulated members.
As facilities such as intravenous (IV) infusion clinics1 become more commonplace, ACP reminds regulated members of a few important considerations:
- Compounding IV formulations: Any time drugs are altered (such as being added to IV bags) they are considered compounded drugs. Drug compounding must align with ACP’s standards.
- Compounding drugs for facilities: Pharmacies that are selling drugs in a distributive or wholesaling manner without meaningful patient interactions, or that are manufacturing as described in Health Canada Policy-51, would be practising outside of ACP’s standards.
- Pharmacy professionals as “medical directors:” In certain situations, ACP has heard of regulated health professionals taking the role of “medical director” in these facilities. The term “medical director” is not a protected title under the Health Professions Act and is not used, authorized, or directly regulated by ACP. The term “medical director” has traditionally been associated with medical practice by a physician. With this in mind, it is important to note that while practising and representing themselves as a pharmacist, pharmacists must ensure that they are not misleading the public or other regulated health professionals with the titles they use.
Before a regulated member has any involvement with these facilities, consider whether your involvement would align with ACP’s standards and the practice framework.
For more information, refer to the following resources:
- College of Physicians & Surgeons of Alberta. IV Infusion Clinic Case Scenario: What Does “Medical Director” Really Mean?
- College of LPNs and HCAs of Alberta. Notice for LPNs on Providing Infusion Therapy in Private Settings.
- Alberta College of Pharmacy. Can pharmacists use the title “medical director?
- A facility where intravenous (IV) drips are used to administer vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and fluids directly into a person’s bloodstream, also commonly referred to as a “medical spa.” ↩︎
