By Connor Hutchinson

Pinnacle Pharmacy - Where You're So Much

Pinnacle Pharmacy – Where You’re So Much More Than Just a Prescription

Feb 1, 2023 | 11:39 AM

A new local program is making a difference for people who need medication. It’s also giving peace of mind to their loved ones and helping ease the strain on our healthcare system.

Introducing the Pinnacle Plus Program. This in-home service is a new option for people who need or want assistance with their medications, in particular with monitoring glucose and administering insulin.

Deryn Edgett, pharmacist and owner of Pinnacle Pharmacy, described this alternative to privatized nursing services.

“We’ve developed this program  where we can provide this care in a manner that is affordable and that allows people to remain living independently in their home and getting a personalized level of care from their pharmacy team.”

The lower cost is a significant factor, but it’s the level of care that makes a life-changing difference to many clients. Pinnacle Pharmacy’s nurse can check glucose, record glucose, and administer insulin. For many patients, this means being able to remain living at home.

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An added benefit for many people is the freedom they gain in their day. Rather than the scheduled three hours typical for conventional in-home nursing services, the Pinnacle Plus Program visit is usually 10 to 20 minutes.

Along with diabetes-specific care, Pinnacle Pharmacy’s nurse can also monitor blood pressure and provide a general wellness check.

Originally from Nanaimo, Edgett spent some of her pharmacy career in Victoria. She saw the benefits of a similar program there and knew there was a gap to be filled in the Nanaimo-Oceanside area.

“We feel strongly that we can make a difference in healthcare and in the lives of people, especially in light of the healthcare crises going on, so we built this pharmacy with that in mind.”

She explained that some people who are otherwise independent need extended care or hospitalization only because they’re unable to manage their medication, in particular insulin administration and glucose monitoring.

The strain on the healthcare system compounds the need. Edgett relayed one patient’s experience in a bed in a hospital hallway because there wasn’t a room available.

“The only reason she couldn’t go home is she couldn’t administer her insulin herself. Because we were able to do this for her, she was able to be discharged from the hospital and go be home with her husband.”

It’s easy to understand why feedback has been so positive. Local healthcare professionals have told Pinnacle Pharmacy they recognize there’s a need for this service.

The reaction from families has been positive as well. Along with the peace of mind of knowing their loved one is in good hands, in many cases it also frees a family member from filling the role themselves.

Edgett explained, “It’s a huge relief, and it allows them to go back to just being the family member, as opposed to being the one who is responsible for their wellbeing.”

Many people who do administer their medication on their own find that professional help isn’t giving up control. The opposite is true. Often it gives back more independence, flexibility in their day, and a better quality of life.

The program is just part of what Pinnacle Pharmacy offers. They’re also a full-service pharmacy for prescription refills as well as a retail store for over-the-counter medications and healthcare products.

As an independent pharmacy, the Pinnacle team can focus on an elevated experience. Customers and caregivers have the opportunity to build a personal connection with the pharmacist.

Blister packs as a free option is an example of how a patient’s health is always the top priority.

With the flexibility to do more than fill prescriptions, the pharmacy becomes part of a patient’s healthcare team. Their in-store staff includes a Certified Diabetes Educator and a certified compression stocking fitter – a team intentionally created to be able to offer more.

Pinnacle Pharmacy is located in Longwood Station. Their Pinnacle Plus Program serves Nanaimo, Parksville, and Qualicum Beach.

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Pinnacle Pharmacy
250-585-1980
pinnaclepharmacy.ca