The 2024 RxTalks Conference will be held over two (2) consecutive days. Attendees will be immersed in a world of pharmacy knowledge and expertise so that they can be empowered in their careers, discover tools, and gain the skills that are essential for today’s pharmacy professional. RxTalks is not a continuing education unit (CEU) accredited event; the agenda outlines the specific sessions that qualify for CEUs.
January 19, 2024
January 20, 2024
Sponsored by:
Hear a warm welcome message from OPA CEO, Justin Bates and Board Chair, Hitesh Pandya. With RxTalks focus on “people”, they will kick off the exciting events which include discussions about the future of the profession, inspiring panellists, skill-building presentations and more. Also, celebrate your fellow pharmacy professionals with the OPA Award presentation.
Sponsored by:*
*The award presentation sponsor played no role in influencing or participating in the selection of the OPA award winners. The entire process was conducted exclusively by OPA, ensuring an unbiased and comprehensive evaluation of nominees before the final award winners were selected.
9:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.
Speaker: Mike Boivin
Get ready to put your pharmacy knowledge to the test. This engaging and fun session is designed to challenge your expertise in all things pharmacy related. Join in on this trivia extravaganza where you’ll have the chance to showcase your drug wisdom, recall facts and compete against fellow attendees. This session promises to be entertaining while also being educational. Prepare for an interactive journey through the fascinating world of pharmacy!
Accredited CEU:1
Sponsored by:
10:45 a.m. – 11:45 a.m.
1:15 p.m. – 1:45 p.m.
Speaker: Nardine Nakhla
Hosted by BioSyent Pharma Inc
As pharmacists, you play a crucial role in supporting patients with minor ailments and self-care concerns on a daily basis. The expanded scope of practice now authorizes pharmacists in Ontario to autonomously assess and prescribe for minor ailments. This RxTalks session aims to empower pharmacists by maximizing their scope of practice and enhancing patient outcomes while also contributing to evolving models of care delivery, ultimately reducing the healthcare burden on other sectors.
During this session, we will delve into various strategies, tools, and tips that will enable you to conduct comprehensive, effective, efficient, and high-quality minor ailment services. By adopting a multidimensional, patient-focused approach to minor ailment management, you will be able to propel your practice forward and make a significant impact on patient care.
Not accredited
Sponsored by:
1:45 p.m. – 2:45 p.m.
Panel: Jen Belcher, Andrew Hamilton, Drew Peddie, Kristen Watt
Join us for this exciting and thought-provoking panel session on pharmacy compensation. In recent years, the role of community pharmacists has evolved significantly; pharmacists are now expected to provide a range of clinical services that go above and beyond traditional dispensing. But with this change comes a new challenge: how should pharmacists be compensated in a world where dispensing fees and clinical service revenue are blended together? What is the most appropriate way to pay a pharmacist for the work they do? Are billing numbers an answer?
During this panel, we will explore the world of pharmacists’ compensation. You will hear from several pharmacists and their perspectives on how they are currently compensated for the type of practice setting they are in. This session will include a lively discussion where audience participation will be encouraged. Prior to the RxTalks conference, we will ask you to submit your thoughts and questions that we will collate and address during the live session. You will leave with a deeper understanding of the issues surrounding pharmacists’ compensation and with new ideas for how to approach this challenge in your own practice.
Accredited CEU:1
Sponsored by:
3:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Speaker: Kelly Grindrod
Negotiation is a critical aspect of the pharmacy profession. As the pharmacy work environment evolves, pharmacy professionals need to be adaptable and be able to communicate effectively and assertively daily. Building on the skills learned in the pre-conference webinar, attendees will learn the importance of developing negotiation skills, factors to consider when entering a negotiation, and how to apply negotiation strategies to ensure the best possible outcome for all parties involved. Lastly, learn how to mentor future generations and team members in the fine art of negotiation.
This session includes a pre-learning activity to be completed in advance of RxTalks.
Accredited CEU:1
Sponsored by:
4:00 p.m. – 5:15 p.m.
Speaker: Unstoppable Tracy Schmitt BRLS, B.Ed, MBA
This powerful session on perseverance and positive thinking in the face of adversity will leave you feeling inspired and empowered. With her engaging speaking style and motivational techniques, Unstoppable Tracy is sure to captivate and empower every member of the audience. She brings her award-winning perspective and life experiences from her travels around the world to every talk, making them both relatable and impactful. You won’t want to miss this unforgettable session!
Not accredited
Sponsored by:
Join other conference participants and get ready to unwind, socialize and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere while indulging in wine and cheese. Mingle with fellow conference attendees, as well as speakers, OPA staff, and exhibitors. Take advantage of the chance to share conversations and reflect on what you’ve learned so far. (located in another room at MTCC)
Sponsored by:
Continue the conversations and connection-building at the post-RxTalks networking dinner. Enjoy various food stations while networking with peers, friends and like-minded individuals. Embrace this opportunity to connect with industry leaders, experts, OPA staff and peers.
Sponsored by:
January 20, 2024
Sponsored by:
OPA CEO, Justin Bates and Board Chair, Hitesh Pandya kick off day two of RxTalks with an inspiring message that will set the tone for the day ahead and get attendees excited for a day of enriching discussions and networking opportunities. Also, discover a brief recap of highlights from day one.
9:45 a.m. – 10:45 a.m.
Speaker: Jeff Nagge
Generative artificial intelligence (AI) is a rapidly developing field with the potential to revolutionize pharmacy training. Generative AI can be used to create immersive and engaging simulations that allow pharmacy professionals to practice their skills in a safe and controlled environment.
This presentation will explore the potential of generative AI for pharmacy training. Participants will learn how generative AI can be used to create authentic simulations, and the benefits and limitations of using generative AI over traditional experiential training methods.
Accredited CEU:1
Sponsored by:
Speaker: Kristen Watt
This valuable session led by Kristen Watt, will shed light on the importance of embracing vulnerability and creating a culture of open communication within the pharmacy profession. Kristen will share her experience of committing two serious errors when providing care to patients in her pharmacy and the grief and onslaught of emotions that followed due to the incidents. She will explore the challenges faced by pharmacy professionals when it comes to acknowledging and discussing errors, and she will highlight the detrimental effects of shame, blame, and fear of employment repercussions.
By sharing personal experiences and insights, Kristen will discuss the role of leaders in fostering an environment where errors are openly addressed and treated as valuable learning opportunities. Drawing from her expertise, she will emphasize the significance of transparency, empathy, and support in cultivating a culture that promotes growth and continuous improvement. This session will provide meaningful discussions that aim to empower pharmacy professionals while reducing stigmas and transforming the way errors are approached in practice.
Accredited CEU:1
Sponsored by:
1:30 p.m. – 1:45 p.m.
Speaker: Terri Drover
This session presents the Ontario Medications Return Program and Sharps Collection Program and explores the critical role pharmacists play in managing household hazardous waste and protecting the environment and public health. Additionally, the session highlights the significance of sustainable practices and patient education in pharmacy settings, providing valuable insights and practical tips for pharmacy professionals seeking to integrate sustainable strategies in their practice.
Not accredited
Sponsored by:
1:45 p.m. – 2:15 p.m.
Speaker: Kim Stewart
This session explores and explains the comprehensive world of professional liability insurance (PLI) policies and their vital role in safeguarding OPA members during claims and tribunal actions. Insurance expert, Kim Stewart will explore the intricacies of what is encompassed within PLI policies, shedding light on the layers of protection they offer to pharmacy professionals. Discover how PLI not only grants peace of mind but also presents an array of coverage options that are both competitive and tailored to your needs. Furthermore, learn how PLI goes beyond financial protection by providing advocacy and support to pharmacists, pharmacy technicians, interns, and more, ensuring you’re not alone when facing challenging situations.
Not accredited
Sponsored by:
2:15 p.m. – 3:15 p.m.
Speaker: Doug Sherman
Embark on a transformative journey focused on key leadership, team behaviours, and enhancing performance to create a harmonious work environment. Learn how these factors deliver optimal operating results, including, importantly, job satisfaction, improved retention and skill development for all team members. Targeted toward pharmacy professionals in leadership roles, Doug will provide insights on how to build and sustain a positive and productive culture that will resonate with all participants. His candid and collaborative approach to building effective teams draws on his experience and success in leading teams across multiple generations. This session will be valuable in helping to elevate your leadership skills, organization’s dynamics and team morale.
Accredited CEU:1
Sponsored by:
3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Speaker: Jake Karls
“You win by being unapologetically you.”
This motto is at the heart of Jake Karls’ bold business moves and unconventional career journey, and sticking to it is his proudest achievement. Blocking out noise and naysayers, Jake learned to get comfortable with the initial discomfort of simply being himself. Formerly insecure about pitching high-profile investors, Jake cultivated the confidence to enjoy and gain strength from tough moments. His commitment to staying true to himself has allowed the brand to grow organically, and the results have been pretty extraordinary.
In this impactful and inspiring keynote, Jake urges you to trust your gut – the most powerful muscle you have – and find your superpower, whatever it is. When you’re unapologetically you, that’s when the magic and serendipity happen.
Not accredited
Sponsored by:
January 19th and 20th, 2024
