College of Pharmacists of BC

The College of Pharmacists of BC (CPBC) is the regulatory body for pharmacy in British Columbia and is responsible for registering pharmacists and pharmacy technicians and licensing pharmacies throughout the province. Founded in 1891, the CPBC is a vital link in the chain of trust that connects patients, pharmacists and pharmacy technicians, and as such, it is accountable to the public. The CPBC’s mandate is to protect the public by ensuring pharmacists and pharmacy technicians provide safe, effective and competent care to help people achieve better health. The CPBC receives its authority from the government of BC through the Health Professions Act and the Pharmacy Operation and Drug Scheduling Act.

The CPBC investigates all complaints related to a pharmacist’s and pharmacy technician’s professional practice; however, it does not have jurisdiction to investigate concerns about business practices, financial matters, poor service, or the manners of the pharmacist (e.g., rudeness). These concerns should generally be referred to the pharmacy manager, pharmacy owner, or head office (in the case of a pharmacy chain). See the College’s Complaints Resolution section for more.