Nova Scotia Health pharmacists honoured with HOPE Award for oncology excellence

A dedicated team of pharmacists at Nova Scotia Health has been recognized nationally for their innovative work, earning the HOPE (Honouring Oncology Pharmacy Excellence) Award in the "Interprofessional Programs" category. This award celebrates excellence in oncology pharmacy practice and acknowledges groundbreaking initiatives that enhance cancer care. The winning project, “Development and Implementation of a Pharmacist-Led Gynecology Oncology PARP* Inhibitor Clinic,” is an inspiring example of healthcare innovation and teamwork.

Led by pharmacists Nada Toulany, Ny Phonchareon, Samantha Scott, Amanda Daniels and Laura Minard, in close collaboration with the Division of Gynecologic Oncology, this new clinic was created to bridge the care gap for patients receiving oral cancer therapies. By integrating oncology pharmacists into the gynecology oncology team, the clinic enhances patient care for women with ovarian cancer prescribed PARP inhibitors.

Since its launch in 2022, the pharmacist-led clinic has recorded more than 600 patient encounters, with 446 visits that replaced an oncologist/nurse visit, as well as 93 visits that were considered enhancements to patient care. By providing patient education, managing side effects, monitoring medication adherence, and conducting toxicity assessments, the pharmacists offer comprehensive and timely support, all while easing the workload of overburdened physicians and nurses.

The results of the clinic’s efforts speak volumes. In its first two years, pharmacists identified and addressed 278 drug-therapy problems, 46 per cent of which were related to adverse drug events. Additionally, pharmacists made more than 130 clinical interventions, including stopping or starting medications, prescribing, and offering targeted counselling to improve patient outcomes. Their proactive management of toxicities, such as chemotherapy-induced nausea/vomiting and hypertension, further showcases their ability to deliver specialized care.

Karen Oldfield, interim president and CEO at Nova Scotia Health, highlighted the clinic’s transformative impact, noting how it has set a new standard for cancer care while increasing system capacity. “Not only did they improve access to care and support for women with ovarian cancer, but they also ensured that more patients can safely and confidently manage their treatment at home,” Oldfield explained. “This is another great example of Nova Scotian clinicians using their knowledge and expertise to make life easier for their patients.”

For Laura Minard, clinical pharmacy coordinator for oncology and hematology, this award is a meaningful acknowledgment of the team’s efforts to advance oncology pharmacy practice in Nova Scotia. "This award highlights how models of care that integrate oncology pharmacists into the multidisciplinary team can improve care for Nova Scotians with cancer while supporting the broader healthcare system," she said.
Pharmacist Nada Toulany reflected on the joy of helping patients better understand their medications and managing side effects. “We’re introducing new services that also help offload some of the pressure from our physician and nurse colleagues,” she noted.

This pharmacist-led clinic, run by women for women, is a shining example of how collaboration, innovation and patient-centered care can improve cancer treatment delivery. The success of this initiative underscores the critical role that oncology pharmacists play in providing seamless, high-quality cancer care.

For anyone considering a career in oncology pharmacy, the team encourages taking advantage of the specialized training, hands-on learning, and leadership opportunities available at Nova Scotia Health. 

This HOPE Award-winning project is a testament to the power of teamwork, creative problem-solving and a shared commitment to improving cancer care for Nova Scotians.

Learn more about pharmacy careers at Nova Scotia Health and how you can advance your pharmacy oncology education at: https://nsh.morethanmedicine.ca/advance-your-pharmacy-career-nova-scotia-health 

*poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase

Photo of (L-R) Ny Phonchareon, Laura Minard, Samantha Scott, Amanda Daniels and Nada Toulany.