Loblaw Strengthens Companies Limited of three external healthcare advisors to its Patient Care and Quality Committee (“the Committee”) of the Board of Directors, further solidifying its commitment to improving healthcare access for Canadians.
For over two decades, pharmacists have played an increasingly crucial role in providing accessible healthcare solutions. What began with the administration of flu shots in 2007 has evolved into a key component of patient care, as Loblaw Strengthens and Shoppers Drug Mart pharmacists now address a growing number of acute and chronic conditions. This transformation aligns with an urgent need for convenient healthcare services across Canada, as patients increasingly turn to their local pharmacists for trusted, efficient care.
Loblaw Strengthens is a strong proponent of universal healthcare within Canada’s single-payer system, striving to uphold the highest standards of care across all its healthcare offerings. To ensure continuous improvement, risk management, and incident response, the Committee was formed in January 2025. Its purpose is to provide independent oversight separate from business management, drawing inspiration from public health systems across the country while complementing provincial regulatory measures already in place. The Committee’s focus spans Shoppers Drug Mart, Loblaw Pharmacies, and Lifemark, ensuring a consistent and high-quality patient experience.
To enhance the effectiveness of the Committee, Loblaw Strengthens has appointed three distinguished experts in healthcare policy, patient safety, and medical governance. Their wealth of knowledge will further strengthen the company’s dedication to patient care and healthcare quality.
The Newly Appointed Healthcare Advisors:
Adalsteinn Brown, PhD Dr. Brown is the Dean of the Dalla Lana School of Public Health at the University of Toronto, bringing a wealth of experience in healthcare policy, governance, and quality assurance. Previously serving in the Ontario Ministry of Health, he was instrumental in drafting legislation governing health quality committees and co-chaired the COVID-19 Science Advisory Table. His extensive background in public health systems and quality improvement will provide invaluable insight into Loblaw’s Strengthens patient care initiatives.
Dr. Susan Shaw Dr. Shaw serves as Chief Medical Officer for the Saskatchewan Health Authority and is a former Board Chair for the Saskatchewan Health Quality Council. A recognized leader in healthcare quality improvement and patient safety, Dr. Shaw has held prominent positions in academia, advocacy, and senior healthcare leadership. She currently sits on the Board of the Saskatchewan Health Quality Council, lending her expertise to initiatives focused on improving healthcare outcomes and patient well-being.
Dr. Andy Smith A respected surgeon specializing in colorectal cancer management, Dr. Smith has served as President and CEO of Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre since 2007. His extensive board experience includes leadership roles at the Toronto Academic Health Sciences Network, ORNGE, Public Health Ontario, HealthCareCAN, and Toronto Innovation Acceleration Partners. His strategic approach to healthcare leadership and innovation will further enhance Loblaw’s efforts to improve healthcare accessibility and quality.
Strengthening Healthcare Access and Pharmacist-Led Care
With the evolving landscape of healthcare in Canada, pharmacists are playing an increasingly vital role in addressing gaps within the primary care system. Pharmacist-led healthcare services have expanded significantly, with Shoppers Drug Mart and Loblaw Pharmacies at the forefront of delivering essential services, from vaccinations and medication management to chronic disease monitoring and minor ailment assessments.
According to recent studies, the accessibility of pharmacists significantly improves healthcare outcomes, particularly in rural and underserved communities. By enabling pharmacists to take on expanded responsibilities, the healthcare system can alleviate pressure on hospitals and primary care physicians, ultimately benefiting millions of Canadians seeking timely medical attention.
Galen G. Weston, Chair of the Loblaw Board of Directors, emphasized the importance of the Committee and its newly appointed advisors in driving forward this mission. “The expertise and judgment these healthcare leaders bring to Loblaw’s Strengthens Patient Care and Quality Committee will directly benefit the millions of Canadians who increasingly count on their local pharmacist for care,” said Weston. “As the enhanced role of pharmacists continues to reduce pressure on Canada’s primary care system, I want to thank them for agreeing to serve.”
Enhancing Quality and Safety in Patient Care
The role of the Committee extends beyond expanding pharmacist-led services; it is also committed to enhancing quality assurance, patient safety, and risk management. By adopting best practices from Canada’s public health systems and collaborating with leading healthcare experts, Loblaw aims to uphold the highest standards of medical care.
Jeff Leger, President of Shoppers Drug Mart, highlighted the significance of this initiative in meeting evolving healthcare demands. “The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, demanding that we reinforce our commitment to patient well-being,” said Leger. “Our pharmacists have been highly responsive to the changing needs of the healthcare system, and the guidance from these independent advisors will be instrumental in shaping our practices and ensuring we exceed the expectations of our patients.”
Loblaw Strengthens has a long history of prioritizing patient safety, ensuring adherence to stringent protocols, and leveraging innovative technologies to enhance service delivery. The integration of digital health solutions, such as virtual pharmacist consultations and electronic prescription management, has further streamlined access to essential healthcare services. These advancements reflect Loblaw’s commitment to modernizing healthcare delivery while maintaining a patient-centered approach.
The Future of Loblaw’s Healthcare Commitment
As Loblaw Strengthens continues to expand its healthcare offerings, the company remains dedicated to addressing gaps in patient care, particularly in regions with limited access to primary healthcare providers. The newly formed Committee, supported by external healthcare advisors, will play a critical role in guiding the company’s strategic decisions related to patient care and quality improvement.
One of the key priorities of the Committee is ensuring ongoing professional development for pharmacists, equipping them with the necessary skills to provide comprehensive patient care. Through continuous training, partnerships with healthcare institutions, and collaboration with policymakers, Loblaw Strengthens aims to enhance the overall effectiveness of pharmacist-led healthcare services.
In addition, Loblaw is exploring ways to integrate more preventive healthcare services, focusing on early intervention strategies that promote long-term wellness. By proactively addressing chronic diseases, supporting medication adherence, and providing community-based health education, Loblaw seeks to contribute meaningfully to the overall health and well-being of Canadians.
The impact of Loblaw’s healthcare initiatives extends beyond individual patient interactions. By strengthening the role of pharmacists, improving healthcare accessibility, and upholding rigorous quality standards, the company is actively contributing to the sustainability of Canada’s healthcare system. With a growing number of Canadians relying on pharmacist-led care, the Committee’s work will be instrumental in shaping the future of healthcare delivery in the country.
The appointment of three esteemed healthcare advisors to Loblaw’s Patient Care and Quality Committee underscores the company’s unwavering commitment to excellence in patient care. By leveraging their expertise, Loblaw is reinforcing its dedication to quality assurance, patient safety, and expanded healthcare access.
As pharmacists continue to play a vital role in addressing the evolving healthcare needs of Canadians, Loblaw remains at the forefront of innovation, ensuring that its services align with the highest standards of care. With the guidance of the Committee and its newly appointed advisors, Loblaw is poised to make a lasting impact on healthcare accessibility, helping millions of Canadians receive the trusted care they need, when they need it most.
