Winnipeg, MB December 29, 2022 - Pharmacists Manitoba launched a Social Impact Bond with the Government of Manitoba in April 2022 referred to as “Quit Smoking With Your Manitoba Pharmacist.” This initiative is also supported by Canada Life and ClaimSecure. The goal of the social impact bond is to help 4500 Manitobans become smoke free by March 31, 2025.

“With 2023 around the corner, we are encouraging those who have set ‘quitting smoking’ as their new years’ resolution to take advantage of this initiative” says Tanjit Nagra, CEO, Pharmacists Manitoba.

Individuals eligible for this program must be 18 years of age or older, be a Manitoba resident with a valid Manitoba Health card, and consent to participate in the program. Through the program, individuals will receive up to a $100 subsidy towards smoking cessation products. The service will be delivered through an initial one-hour assessment, up to nine follow up counselling sessions, and prescribed first-line smoking cessation pharmacotherapy.

“Quitting smoking is not an easy task, but we hope that with the help of a pharmacist and resources made available through this initiative, interested participants will feel motivated and supported every step of the way” says Nagra.There are 200 participating pharmacies across Manitoba, throughout all health regions. Interested individuals can visit www.quitsmokingmb.ca and find a participating pharmacy near them to book an initial appointment.

Smoking cessation services are also available in additional languages at various pharmacies across the province. A full of available languages and where these additional language services are being offered can be found at www.quitsmokingmb.ca/languages.