Two U.S.-trained pharmacists, Josh Ghiringhelli (Michigan) and Jay Worthington (North Carolina) made the move north—and discovered that practicing in Nova Scotia is anything but business as usual. In this podcast, PANS' Recruitment Navigator Tristan Park sits down with Josh and Jay at the PANS office for a real conversation about their experiences with cross‑border licensure, expanded scope of practice, and what it’s actually like to build a career (and a life) in Canada’s east‑coast province. From prescribing differences and practice models to coastal living and professional growth, we explore the moments that surprised them, challenged them, and changed how they think about pharmacy.

Whether you’re a pharmacist curious about practicing in Nova Scotia, considering an international move, or simply interested in how pharmacy practice can evolve, this podcast offers honest insight from two people living it in real time.

We’ve made it easier for pharmacy professionals from the US, Great Britain, Ireland, Australia and New Zealand to join pharmacy practice in Nova Scotia – no national competency exam (PEBC) or internship required! If you're interested in learning more about the new streamlined licensing pathway, visit https://rxns.ca/

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 PAM. Join PANS' Martha Lowe is and Pharmacists Bruce Johnson and Vanessa Johnson for a special Pharmacy Appreciation Month episode.

Did you know there are many pharmacy families in Nova Scotia? The Johnson's are just one! Bruce was the first African Nova Scotian to graduate from DAL's College of Pharmacy in 1974 and his daughter Vanessa followed in his pharmacy footsteps many years later. They touch on how they both got into the profession, how the practice has progressed in the last 50 years and what they hope to see for the future of pharmacy.

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 Pharmacist Rounds has been a long‑standing clinical learning forum where real-world pharmacy cases are explored through thoughtful discussion, evidence-based decision-making, and practical application. Originally delivered as virtual meetings with Community Pharmacy Primary Care sites, Jaime's Pharmacist Rounds is now being delivered through Pods + PANS as a new podcast series, transforming Jaime’s trusted clinical rounds into concise, on‑demand episodes designed for all pharmacists and pharmacy professionals who want to deepen their clinical confidence—anytime, anywhere.

Each episode features a real clinical case 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.

In this episode, Jaime McDonald leads a case-based discussion focused on menopause—a common yet often complex area of care encountered in pharmacy practice. Whether menopause is an area you encounter frequently or one you’d like to feel more confident managing, this episode offers practical insights grounded in real clinical experience.

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 Allison Bodnar, PANS CEO, and Rose Dipchand, PANS Board member and Chair of the PANS Economics Committee, to break down Nova Scotia’s new Nova Scotia pharmacy agreements—Tariff Agreement, Pharmacy Services Agreement, and the first‑ever CPPCC Agreement. Find out how pharmacy contracts actually get negotiated (and why it’s not quick), what changed, why it matters, and what these changes mean for pharmacy teams and patient access to care across the province.

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.

Relive a powerhouse year for Nova Scotia pharmacy—innovation, advocacy, and community in action. From our game‑changing primary care clinics and career changing AI Scribe to heartfelt celebrations, events and major awards, hear the moments that truly moved our profession this past year. Meet the PANS team, feel the momentum, and get inspired for 2026!

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.

Join PANS' Lisa Woodill in her candid conversation with Dr. Gordon Gubitz and Lisa Grandy Allen on Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD) and its role in end-of-life care. Listeners will learn more about common misconceptions, ethical dilemmas, and the safeguards in place for patient decision-making. The episode also addresses pharmacy-specific challenges, including dispensing, conscientious objection, and billing processes. Gain practical insights and emotional perspectives from healthcare professionals navigating MAiD in Nova Scotia.

Dr. Gordon Gubitz is a Professor of Medicine in the Department of Neurology at Dalhousie University and an attending physician on the acute stroke unit in Halifax. Since the legalization of MAiD, Dr. Gubitz is the clinical lead for Nova Scotia's MAiD program and is involved in MAiD education and research. He's a board member for the Canadian Association of MAiD Assessors and Providers (CAMAP) and chairs their education committee. Dr. Gubitz has no other declarations and conflict(s) of interest.

Lisa Grandy Allen is a Drug Information Pharmacist with Nova Scotia Health since 1995, and has worked part-time in community with Lawton's Drugs for 20 years. She also assists the Vaccine Consult Service as co-team lead and provides support to the MAiD program when assistance may be needed for pharmacy-related topics and issues. Lisa 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.

PANS' Lisa Woodill talks with Lynn Renton, Coordinator of the ABI Provincial Network at Nova Scotia Health, about acquired brain injuries and the services available in Nova Scotia. Lynn shares insights on what ABI is, how the provincial network supports patients and clinicians, and the challenges faced by those living with brain injuries. This episode highlights the importance of teamwork between healthcare providers, how ABI providers will be referring patients for pharmacy services, and practical strategies for recovery.

Lynn Renton is the Coordinator of the ABI Provincial Network at Nova Scotia Health and an Occupational Therapist with more than 30 years of experience in Acquired Brain Injury (ABI). She is based in the Bedford NeuroCommons, a community-based hub of brain injury services. Lynn has no 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.

Krista Faulkenham recently made history as the first Pharmacy Technician in Nova Scotia to become a Pharmacy Manager at Bridgewater Guardian Pharmacy. PANS’ Glenn Rodrigues sits down with Krista and Pam Kennedy, Owner of Bridgewater Guardian, to discuss how this groundbreaking achievement came to life and the steps, challenges, and mindset that helped Krista reach this milestone. Whether you’re a pharmacy technician aiming to grow your career or a pharmacy leader interested in supporting technician advancement, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration for the next generation of pharmacy management.

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 the final episode of Jaime’s Navigating Labs series, we turn our focus to the kidneys and the lab values that help us keep them healthy. PANS' Suzanne Richards-Aucoin gets Jaime to break down the most important renal markers, including creatinine, eGFR, and ACR, and how to interpret them in everyday pharmacy practice. Whether you’re new to reviewing kidney labs or want a refresher on interpreting results, this episode brings clarity to a complex but essential topic.

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

Jaime McDonald is a pharmacist who is currently a Clinical Consultant Pharmacist through PANS where she provides virtual and phone clinical consultant services to Nova Scotia Pharmacists. Jaime was previously a Pharmacy Manager for NSH and a Clinical Pharmacist for the IWK Health Centre. Jaime 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 Laura Hergott, Manager of the Healthy by Nature Initiative at the BC Parks Foundation. Together, they explore the growing movement of nature prescriptions, also known as PaRx. Laura shares insights into how the PaRx program is making nature more accessible to Canadians, the science behind time spent outdoors, and practical tips for pharmacists and other healthcare providers to integrate nature prescriptions into their daily practice. Tune in to learn how a simple walk outside can become a powerful part of patient care.

Laura Hergott is the PaRx Coordinator for the BC Parks Foundation, managing the national nature prescription program. Laura 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.