Over the past few years many studies have reported on the therapeutic value of chocolate to help avoid heart disease; coffee to prevent gout in men; and red wine consumption as a means of preventing gum disease, stopping inflammation, and recently we've heard it helps ward off disabilities in our senior years. We've also been told it doesn't mix well with medications. What should we do? How do you mange the conflicting information?

Alberta and BC pharmacists have been given the authority by government to prescribe medications. What impact will this have on people with chronic diseases who use medication on a daily or weekly basis to control their disease? Will it mean less visits to the family doctor for prescription renewals?

Does the pharmacist have the discretionary authority to substitute a generic drug for a patented drug?

Is patient safety an issue?

We’ve made it. CAPA now has it’s own website at arthritispatient.ca. Member-built and member-driven. The new site has features that will allow us to get to know you better and allow you to interact with other CAPA members. As you explore the site over the next few hours or days let us know what you think. Is the website easy to use? How does it compare to other websites you frequent? Will the link to federal, provincial and territorial government representatives assist you in your advocacy initiatives? Do you like the latest poll feature and will you use it? Is there a question you would like included in the latest poll? We want to know what you think of your new website.