Are you a Pharmacy Assistant thinking about taking the next step in your pharmacy career? This one is for you! In this episode of Pods + PANS, PANS' Kayla Biron catches up with Karen Barberie, Program Coordinator and Instructor at Eastern College, to explore the Pharmacy Technician Bridging Program. Learn who qualifies, what to expect from the program, and how experienced pharmacy assistants can transition into regulated pharmacy technician roles while continuing to work. Discover the career opportunities, professional growth, and impact pharmacy technicians are making across the healthcare system.

Learn more about Eastern College's Pharmacy Technician Bridging Program at https://www.easterncollege.ca/programs-courses/healthcare/pharmacy-technician-bridging/

Copyright Notice

By accessing the PANS Pods and PANS Podcast (the “Podcast”) you acknowledge that the contents, design, and materials are the property of the Pharmacy Association of Nova Scotia (PANS) or used by PANS with permission. The Podcast and its data, content, information, and other materials are protected under Canadian copyright and trademark laws. The Podcast is for general educational purposes only. No other use, including, without limitation, reproduction, retransmission, or editing, may be made without the prior written permission of PANS.

Disclaimer

The Podcast and content contained therein, including text, images, audio, or other formats, were created for general education and informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, clinical diagnosis, or treatment. Reliance on any information provided is solely at your own risk. Furthermore, any third-party materials or content of any third-party site referenced in the Podcast do not necessarily reflect the opinions, standards, or policies of PANS. PANS assumes no responsibility or liability for the accuracy or completeness of the content of guests or contained in third-party materials or on third-party sites referenced in this Podcast or the compliance with applicable laws of such materials and/or links referenced therein.

Limitation of Liability

PANS EXPRESSLY DISCLAIMS ANY AND ALL LIABILITY OR RESPONSIBILITY FOR ANY DIRECT, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, SPECIAL, CONSEQUENTIAL, OR OTHER DAMAGES, INCLUDING WITHOUT LIMITATION LOSS OF PROFITS, ARISING OUT OF ANY INDIVIDUAL'S USE OF, REFERENCE TO, RELIANCE ON, OR INABILITY TO USE THE PRODUCTS OR THE INFORMATION PRESENTED IN THE PODCASTS.

In this episode, PANS' Lisa Woodill is joined by Jaclyn Tran of Nova Scotia Health’s Drug Evaluation Unit (DEU) to talk about the latest evidence and guidelines in tobacco smoking cessation. The conversation highlights the DEU’s newly developed Tobacco Smoking Cessation Toolkit, a practical resource designed to help healthcare providers navigate pharmacotherapy options, including nicotine replacement therapy and natural health products. They explore why smoking cessation remains one of the most impactful interventions in healthcare, review recent Canadian guideline updates, and discuss emerging treatment options available to support patients on their quit journey.

Copyright Notice

By accessing the PANS Pods and PANS Podcast (the “Podcast”) you acknowledge that the contents, design, and materials are the property of the Pharmacy Association of Nova Scotia (PANS) or used by PANS with permission. The Podcast and its data, content, information, and other materials are protected under Canadian copyright and trademark laws. The Podcast is for general educational purposes only. No other use, including, without limitation, reproduction, retransmission, or editing, may be made without the prior written permission of PANS.

Disclaimer

The Podcast and content contained therein, including text, images, audio, or other formats, were created for general education and informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, clinical diagnosis, or treatment. Reliance on any information provided is solely at your own risk. Furthermore, any third-party materials or content of any third-party site referenced in the Podcast do not necessarily reflect the opinions, standards, or policies of PANS. PANS assumes no responsibility or liability for the accuracy or completeness of the content of guests or contained in third-party materials or on third-party sites referenced in this Podcast or the compliance with applicable laws of such materials and/or links referenced therein.

Limitation of Liability

PANS EXPRESSLY DISCLAIMS ANY AND ALL LIABILITY OR RESPONSIBILITY FOR ANY DIRECT, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, SPECIAL, CONSEQUENTIAL, OR OTHER DAMAGES, INCLUDING WITHOUT LIMITATION LOSS OF PROFITS, ARISING OUT OF ANY INDIVIDUAL'S USE OF, REFERENCE TO, RELIANCE ON, OR INABILITY TO USE THE PRODUCTS OR THE INFORMATION PRESENTED IN THE PODCASTS.

Pods + PANS' Navigating Labs series is BACK! PANS' Lisa Woodill sits down with Pharmacy Practice Consultant Jaime McDonald to break down the key laboratory markers used to assess anemia. Together, they explore the role of ferritin, iron studies, vitamin B12, and other important lab values. They will also explore what pharmacists can do when they encounter a patient with general fatigue and how to guide appropriate patient care. Tune in for a practical discussion that will help you interpret anemia-related lab results with greater confidence.

To request a private consultation with Jaime, you can email [email protected]

Jaime McDonald is a Clinical Pharmacy Specialist for the IWK Maritime Child Health Program and is a Clinical Consultant Pharmacist through PANS where she provides virtual and phone clinical consultant services to Nova Scotia Pharmacists. Jaime has been a member of the Vortex Atlantic CF Advisory Board. She has no other declarations and conflict(s) of interest.

Copyright Notice

By accessing the PANS Pods and PANS Podcast (the “Podcast”) you acknowledge that the contents, design, and materials are the property of the Pharmacy Association of Nova Scotia (PANS) or used by PANS with permission. The Podcast and its data, content, information, and other materials are protected under Canadian copyright and trademark laws. The Podcast is for general educational purposes only. No other use, including, without limitation, reproduction, retransmission, or editing, may be made without the prior written permission of PANS.

Disclaimer

The Podcast and content contained therein, including text, images, audio, or other formats, were created for general education and informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, clinical diagnosis, or treatment. Reliance on any information provided is solely at your own risk. Furthermore, any third-party materials or content of any third-party site referenced in the Podcast do not necessarily reflect the opinions, standards, or policies of PANS. PANS assumes no responsibility or liability for the accuracy or completeness of the content of guests or contained in third-party materials or on third-party sites referenced in this Podcast or the compliance with applicable laws of such materials and/or links referenced therein.

Limitation of Liability

PANS EXPRESSLY DISCLAIMS ANY AND ALL LIABILITY OR RESPONSIBILITY FOR ANY DIRECT, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, SPECIAL, CONSEQUENTIAL, OR OTHER DAMAGES, INCLUDING WITHOUT LIMITATION LOSS OF PROFITS, ARISING OUT OF ANY INDIVIDUAL'S USE OF, REFERENCE TO, RELIANCE ON, OR INABILITY TO USE THE PRODUCTS OR THE INFORMATION PRESENTED IN THE PODCASTS.

In this episode of Pods + PANS, PANS' Lisa Woodill is joined by pharmacy leaders Pam Kennedy and Chelsea Caldwell as they share their experiences transitioning to an appointment-based model of practice. From rethinking workflow and redesigning physical spaces to adopting new technologies and supporting team change, this conversation offers a practical look at what it takes to successfully implement and sustain this model.

Hear firsthand how appointment-based services are impacting patient care, improving efficiency, and redefining the pharmacist’s role in the community. Whether you're considering making the shift yourself or simply curious about how pharmacy practice is evolving, this episode is packed with real-world insights, lessons learned, and advice from those leading the change.

Pam Kennedy is a pharmacist and Pharmacy Owner of Bridgewater Gaurdian Pharmacy. Pam plays key roles within the Pharmacy Association of Nova Scotia as the Vice Chair of the Board of Directors and is the Chair of the GMP Committee. She is also Vice Chair of the South Shore Health Foundation and has been a council member for the McKesson Canada Retail Banner Group National Advisory Council. In the past, Pam has been a paid speaker for PharmacyU. Pam has no other declarations and conflict(s) of interest.

Chelsea Caldwell is a pharmacist and Pharmacy Manager at Shubenacadie Guardian. She is also a Travel Health Advisor, helping patients stay healthy wherever their travels take them. In addition to her clinical work, she’s a Pharmacy Practice committee member with the Pharmacy Association of Nova Scotia. Chelsea has no other declarations and conflict(s) of interest.

Copyright Notice

By accessing the PANS Pods and PANS Podcast (the “Podcast”) you acknowledge that the contents, design, and materials are the property of the Pharmacy Association of Nova Scotia (PANS) or used by PANS with permission. The Podcast and its data, content, information, and other materials are protected under Canadian copyright and trademark laws. The Podcast is for general educational purposes only. No other use, including, without limitation, reproduction, retransmission, or editing, may be made without the prior written permission of PANS.

Disclaimer

The Podcast and content contained therein, including text, images, audio, or other formats, were created for general education and informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, clinical diagnosis, or treatment. Reliance on any information provided is solely at your own risk. Furthermore, any third-party materials or content of any third-party site referenced in the Podcast do not necessarily reflect the opinions, standards, or policies of PANS. PANS assumes no responsibility or liability for the accuracy or completeness of the content of guests or contained in third-party materials or on third-party sites referenced in this Podcast or the compliance with applicable laws of such materials and/or links referenced therein.

Limitation of Liability

PANS EXPRESSLY DISCLAIMS ANY AND ALL LIABILITY OR RESPONSIBILITY FOR ANY DIRECT, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, SPECIAL, CONSEQUENTIAL, OR OTHER DAMAGES, INCLUDING WITHOUT LIMITATION LOSS OF PROFITS, ARISING OUT OF ANY INDIVIDUAL'S USE OF, REFERENCE TO, RELIANCE ON, OR INABILITY TO USE THE PRODUCTS OR THE INFORMATION PRESENTED IN THE PODCASTS.

We're bringing you a #ThrowbackThursday this week for Pride Month! 🏳️‍🌈In this episode, PANS' Lisa Woodill sits down with Greg Richard, Pharmacist and Owner of Boyd’s Pharmasave—a community pharmacy dedicated to providing welcoming and affirming health care for the LGBTQ community. Greg shares his journey and commitment to creating safe, inclusive, and accessible pharmacy care—particularly for gender-affirming and sexual health services. With a focus on breaking down barriers and expanding the role of community pharmacists, Greg highlights the impact of affirming care and the importance of advocacy in the profession.

Copyright Notice

By accessing the PANS Pods and PANS Podcast (the “Podcast”) you acknowledge that the contents, design, and materials are the property of the Pharmacy Association of Nova Scotia (PANS) or used by PANS with permission. The Podcast and its data, content, information, and other materials are protected under Canadian copyright and trademark laws. The Podcast is for general educational purposes only. No other use, including, without limitation, reproduction, retransmission, or editing, may be made without the prior written permission of PANS.

Disclaimer

The Podcast and content contained therein, including text, images, audio, or other formats, were created for general education and informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, clinical diagnosis, or treatment. Reliance on any information provided is solely at your own risk. Furthermore, any third-party materials or content of any third-party site referenced in the Podcast do not necessarily reflect the opinions, standards, or policies of PANS. PANS assumes no responsibility or liability for the accuracy or completeness of the content of guests or contained in third-party materials or on third-party sites referenced in this Podcast or the compliance with applicable laws of such materials and/or links referenced therein.

Limitation of Liability

PANS EXPRESSLY DISCLAIMS ANY AND ALL LIABILITY OR RESPONSIBILITY FOR ANY DIRECT, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, SPECIAL, CONSEQUENTIAL, OR OTHER DAMAGES, INCLUDING WITHOUT LIMITATION LOSS OF PROFITS, ARISING OUT OF ANY INDIVIDUAL'S USE OF, REFERENCE TO, RELIANCE ON, OR INABILITY TO USE THE PRODUCTS OR THE INFORMATION PRESENTED IN THE PODCASTS.

Preparing for a pharmacy job interview can be a daunting step in launching your career. In this episode, PANS' Recruitment Navigator Tristan Park is joined by Josh Ghiringhelli at the PANS office to share practical tips on how to prepare, communicate your experience effectively, and stand out as a candidate. Designed for students, new graduates, and newcomers, this conversation offers valuable insights into what pharmacy employers are looking for and how to approach your next interview with confidence.

Copyright Notice

By accessing the PANS Pods and PANS Podcast (the “Podcast”) you acknowledge that the contents, design, and materials are the property of the Pharmacy Association of Nova Scotia (PANS) or used by PANS with permission. The Podcast and its data, content, information, and other materials are protected under Canadian copyright and trademark laws. The Podcast is for general educational purposes only. No other use, including, without limitation, reproduction, retransmission, or editing, may be made without the prior written permission of PANS.

Disclaimer

The Podcast and content contained therein, including text, images, audio, or other formats, were created for general education and informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, clinical diagnosis, or treatment. Reliance on any information provided is solely at your own risk. Furthermore, any third-party materials or content of any third-party site referenced in the Podcast do not necessarily reflect the opinions, standards, or policies of PANS. PANS assumes no responsibility or liability for the accuracy or completeness of the content of guests or contained in third-party materials or on third-party sites referenced in this Podcast or the compliance with applicable laws of such materials and/or links referenced therein.

Limitation of Liability

PANS EXPRESSLY DISCLAIMS ANY AND ALL LIABILITY OR RESPONSIBILITY FOR ANY DIRECT, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, SPECIAL, CONSEQUENTIAL, OR OTHER DAMAGES, INCLUDING WITHOUT LIMITATION LOSS OF PROFITS, ARISING OUT OF ANY INDIVIDUAL'S USE OF, REFERENCE TO, RELIANCE ON, OR INABILITY TO USE THE PRODUCTS OR THE INFORMATION PRESENTED IN THE PODCASTS.

Jaime McDonald’s Grand Rounds has long been a trusted clinical learning forum, using real‑world cases to support evidence‑based decision‑making and practical application. Now delivered through Pods + PANS, each episode features real clinical cases and walks listeners through Jaime's thought process: assessing patient context, identifying key issues, reviewing evidence, and considering practical management strategies relevant to community pharmacy practice.

This week, PANS' Lisa Woodill brings forward some common questions she’s being asked and puts them to Jaime for an in-depth discussion on otitis media assessments. Together, they explore key considerations in assessment, differential diagnosis, and clinical decision-making, with added discussion on more complex cases that may involve Lyme disease or Group A Strep.

Jaime McDonald is a Clinical Pharmacy Specialist for the IWK Maritime Child Health Program and is a Clinical Consultant Pharmacist through PANS where she provides virtual and phone clinical consultant services to Nova Scotia Pharmacists. Jaime has been a member of the Vortex Atlantic CF Advisory Board. She has no other declarations and conflict(s) of interest.

Copyright Notice

By accessing the PANS Pods and PANS Podcast (the “Podcast”) you acknowledge that the contents, design, and materials are the property of the Pharmacy Association of Nova Scotia (PANS) or used by PANS with permission. The Podcast and its data, content, information, and other materials are protected under Canadian copyright and trademark laws. The Podcast is for general educational purposes only. No other use, including, without limitation, reproduction, retransmission, or editing, may be made without the prior written permission of PANS.

Disclaimer

The Podcast and content contained therein, including text, images, audio, or other formats, were created for general education and informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, clinical diagnosis, or treatment. Reliance on any information provided is solely at your own risk. Furthermore, any third-party materials or content of any third-party site referenced in the Podcast do not necessarily reflect the opinions, standards, or policies of PANS. PANS assumes no responsibility or liability for the accuracy or completeness of the content of guests or contained in third-party materials or on third-party sites referenced in this Podcast or the compliance with applicable laws of such materials and/or links referenced therein.

Limitation of Liability

PANS EXPRESSLY DISCLAIMS ANY AND ALL LIABILITY OR RESPONSIBILITY FOR ANY DIRECT, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, SPECIAL, CONSEQUENTIAL, OR OTHER DAMAGES, INCLUDING WITHOUT LIMITATION LOSS OF PROFITS, ARISING OUT OF ANY INDIVIDUAL'S USE OF, REFERENCE TO, RELIANCE ON, OR INABILITY TO USE THE PRODUCTS OR THE INFORMATION PRESENTED IN THE PODCASTS.

In this episode, PANS’ Lisa Woodill sits down with Jane Gillis, pharmacist and President of Inclusion Nova Scotia, for an important conversation about major changes underway in our province. Jane shares insight into the upcoming closure of institutions in Nova Scotia, the Human Rights Remedy Report, and what these systemic shifts mean for individuals with intellectual disabilities and their families. Find out what vital role pharmacy teams can play in supporting patients with intellectual disabilities—through inclusive care, advocacy, and everyday interactions that make a meaningful difference.

Learn more about Inclusion Nova Scotia at https://www.inclusionns.ca/

Jane Gillis is currently a part time academic at Dalhousie University and works within the PEP Program (Practice Experience Program) at DAL as the Regional Coordinator, facilitating practice experience for pharmacy students. She is also the President of Inclusion Nova Scotia. Jane has no other declarations and conflict(s) of interest.

Copyright Notice

By accessing the PANS Pods and PANS Podcast (the “Podcast”) you acknowledge that the contents, design, and materials are the property of the Pharmacy Association of Nova Scotia (PANS) or used by PANS with permission. The Podcast and its data, content, information, and other materials are protected under Canadian copyright and trademark laws. The Podcast is for general educational purposes only. No other use, including, without limitation, reproduction, retransmission, or editing, may be made without the prior written permission of PANS.

Disclaimer

The Podcast and content contained therein, including text, images, audio, or other formats, were created for general education and informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, clinical diagnosis, or treatment. Reliance on any information provided is solely at your own risk. Furthermore, any third-party materials or content of any third-party site referenced in the Podcast do not necessarily reflect the opinions, standards, or policies of PANS. PANS assumes no responsibility or liability for the accuracy or completeness of the content of guests or contained in third-party materials or on third-party sites referenced in this Podcast or the compliance with applicable laws of such materials and/or links referenced therein.

Limitation of Liability

PANS EXPRESSLY DISCLAIMS ANY AND ALL LIABILITY OR RESPONSIBILITY FOR ANY DIRECT, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, SPECIAL, CONSEQUENTIAL, OR OTHER DAMAGES, INCLUDING WITHOUT LIMITATION LOSS OF PROFITS, ARISING OUT OF ANY INDIVIDUAL'S USE OF, REFERENCE TO, RELIANCE ON, OR INABILITY TO USE THE PRODUCTS OR THE INFORMATION PRESENTED IN THE PODCASTS.

Thank you to Pfizer for sponsoring this week's episode. In this episode, PANS' Lisa Woodill speaks with N.S. Infectious Disease Pharmacist Tasha Ramsey about key updates on RSV and pneumococcal vaccines in Nova Scotia. The discussion covers disease complications, available immunization agents, eligibility, dosing, co‑administration, and considerations for high‑risk patients and pregnancy. A practical, clinically focused episode to support pharmacists in vaccine decision‑making and patient counselling.

Tasha is the Nova Scotia Health Clinical Therapeutics and Prophylactics Lead for Emerging and Re-Emerging Infections and an Assistant Professor at Dalhousie University’s College of Pharmacy. She is an infectious disease pharmacist and is part of the team of pharmacists that you may speak to at the Nova Scotia Health Vaccine Consult Service. Tasha has been the recipient of funds from PEBC, has been a paid speaker for PANS, CSHP, Dal CPE and in the last five years was an employee for NS Health and Dalhousie University. Tasha has no other declarations and conflict(s) of interest.

Copyright Notice

By accessing the PANS Pods and PANS Podcast (the “Podcast”) you acknowledge that the contents, design, and materials are the property of the Pharmacy Association of Nova Scotia (PANS) or used by PANS with permission. The Podcast and its data, content, information, and other materials are protected under Canadian copyright and trademark laws. The Podcast is for general educational purposes only. No other use, including, without limitation, reproduction, retransmission, or editing, may be made without the prior written permission of PANS.

Disclaimer

The Podcast and content contained therein, including text, images, audio, or other formats, were created for general education and informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, clinical diagnosis, or treatment. Reliance on any information provided is solely at your own risk. Furthermore, any third-party materials or content of any third-party site referenced in the Podcast do not necessarily reflect the opinions, standards, or policies of PANS. PANS assumes no responsibility or liability for the accuracy or completeness of the content of guests or contained in third-party materials or on third-party sites referenced in this Podcast or the compliance with applicable laws of such materials and/or links referenced therein.

Limitation of Liability

PANS EXPRESSLY DISCLAIMS ANY AND ALL LIABILITY OR RESPONSIBILITY FOR ANY DIRECT, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, SPECIAL, CONSEQUENTIAL, OR OTHER DAMAGES, INCLUDING WITHOUT LIMITATION LOSS OF PROFITS, ARISING OUT OF ANY INDIVIDUAL'S USE OF, REFERENCE TO, RELIANCE ON, OR INABILITY TO USE THE PRODUCTS OR THE INFORMATION PRESENTED IN THE PODCASTS.

Jaime McDonald’s Grand Rounds has long been a trusted clinical learning forum, using real‑world cases to support evidence‑based decision‑making and practical application. Now delivered through Pods + PANS, each episode features real clinical cases and walks listeners through Jaime's thought process: assessing patient context, identifying key issues, reviewing evidence, and considering practical management strategies relevant to community pharmacy practice.

This week Jaime leads a discussion on urinary tract infections (UTIs). Jaime begins with an overview of urine samples—what the different types are, what happens to them in the lab, and when each is (and isn’t) useful, emphasizing why patient symptoms must always remain the cornerstone of assessment. She then brings the topic to life with two UTI cases she supported through her clinical consultation line, walking listeners through clinical decision‑making in the context of the 2025 updates to what now constitutes a “complicated” UTI and practical guidance on leveraging the OPOR portal when assessing and managing UTI concerns in practice. A must‑listen for pharmacists looking to strengthen confidence, clinical judgment, and guideline‑aligned care when navigating UTIs.

Jaime McDonald is a Clinical Pharmacy Specialist for the IWK Maritime Child Health Program and is a Clinical Consultant Pharmacist through PANS where she provides virtual and phone clinical consultant services to Nova Scotia Pharmacists. Jaime has been a member of the Vortex Atlantic CF Advisory Board. She has no other declarations and conflict(s) of interest.

Copyright Notice

By accessing the PANS Pods and PANS Podcast (the “Podcast”) you acknowledge that the contents, design, and materials are the property of the Pharmacy Association of Nova Scotia (PANS) or used by PANS with permission. The Podcast and its data, content, information, and other materials are protected under Canadian copyright and trademark laws. The Podcast is for general educational purposes only. No other use, including, without limitation, reproduction, retransmission, or editing, may be made without the prior written permission of PANS.

Disclaimer

The Podcast and content contained therein, including text, images, audio, or other formats, were created for general education and informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, clinical diagnosis, or treatment. Reliance on any information provided is solely at your own risk. Furthermore, any third-party materials or content of any third-party site referenced in the Podcast do not necessarily reflect the opinions, standards, or policies of PANS. PANS assumes no responsibility or liability for the accuracy or completeness of the content of guests or contained in third-party materials or on third-party sites referenced in this Podcast or the compliance with applicable laws of such materials and/or links referenced therein.

Limitation of Liability

PANS EXPRESSLY DISCLAIMS ANY AND ALL LIABILITY OR RESPONSIBILITY FOR ANY DIRECT, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, SPECIAL, CONSEQUENTIAL, OR OTHER DAMAGES, INCLUDING WITHOUT LIMITATION LOSS OF PROFITS, ARISING OUT OF ANY INDIVIDUAL'S USE OF, REFERENCE TO, RELIANCE ON, OR INABILITY TO USE THE PRODUCTS OR THE INFORMATION PRESENTED IN THE PODCASTS.