What are the main purposes of the ODB formulary?

The main purpose of the Ontario Drug Benefit (ODB) formulary is to provide a list of reimbursable products and to identify interchangeable ones. This is critical for ensuring that patients have access to essential medications that are covered under the provincial health plan, allowing for appropriate reimbursement. Identifying interchangeable products ensures that pharmacists can provide patients with therapeutic alternatives, supporting both patient safety and the management of drug costs.

While the formulary does contain information about available medications, its primary focus is not on listing all available drugs and their costs. Instead, it explicitly aims to assist in making informed decisions regarding medication therapy within the framework of the ODB program. Additionally, it does not serve to outline restrictions on drug use in hospitals or set prices for private drug sales; these functions are covered under different regulatory frameworks. Thus, focusing on reimbursement and interchangeability is what distinguishes the ODB formulary in the landscape of pharmaceutical care in Ontario.