The Fentanyl Patch Return Program, also known as Patch 4 Patch, requires patients to return used patches to their pharmacy before they can receive more. The program sees the doctor, pharmacist and patient working together to ensure safe and responsible use of fentanyl patches.
"Misuse of fentanyl patches is linked to a growing number of overdoses." Says Dr. Hazel Lynn, Grey Bruce Medical Officer of Health "Our goal is to increase community safety by keeping fentanyl in the hands of the patients for whom it is prescribed."
The Chief Coroner reports 549 deaths associated with fentanyl in Ontario from 2009-13. In Grey Bruce, there had been nine deaths due to fentanyl overdose from 2010-14.
Together, the Grey Bruce Health Unit, Owen Sound Police Service, Ontario Provincial Police, West Grey Police Service, Saugeen Shores Police Service, Hanover Police Service, local physicians and pharmacists are implementing a Fentanyl Patch Return Program in Grey Bruce. Similar programs have proven successful in many other communities across the province.
This program supports Bill 33, Safeguarding Our Communities Act (Patch for Patch Return Policy) 2015.