The Manitoba Government is partnering with Shoppers Drug Mart and Pharmacists Manitoba to help people quit smoking.
Up to $2.12 million has been earmarked for the program that will see Shoppers provide activities to help stop smoking through the use of counselling and nicotine replacement.
The province’s money is through a social impact bond which means they will pay out the money once agreed upon targets are met.
The goal of the bond is to enrol 4,500 smokers over the next three years and ensure 12 per cent quit smoking.
The success of the program will be determined based on the number of people who participate, the number who quit for 12 months and the number who remain nicotine-free after 24 months.
“The health risks associated with smoking are among the costliest and the most preventable. Shoppers Drug Mart pharmacists are trained to support patients through their journey, providing counsel and different approaches based on individual needs,” said Jeff Leger, president, Shoppers Drug Mart. “We are confident in this new collaborative program and our ability to work with patients, the Manitoba government and Pharmacists Manitoba to help make our province healthier.”
“We know that approximately 160,000 Manitobans currently smoke, causing adverse health effects for themselves and those around them,” said Health, Seniors and Active Living Minister Cameron Friesen. “This new social impact bond will help more Manitobans quit smoking and live healthier lives, creating savings for the health system that can be re-invested towards further improvements to care.”
The program is open to anyone over the age of 18 who approach participating pharmacies for an assessment. The focus initially will be in regions of Manitoba with the highest smoking rates Northern (33 per cent), Interlake-Eastern (23 per cent) and Prairie Mountain (22 per cent).
© News4.ca 2020
