To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to file a formal complaint regarding the treatment I received from the pharmacy staff at the Shoppers Drug Mart located at 499 Terry Fox Drive in Kanata.
Over the course of one week, I experienced repeated delays, misinformation, lack of communication, and what I believe was discriminatory and unprofessional treatment regarding my legally prescribed medication. My medication is prescribed by my physician, who is fully aware of my medical history and treatment plan. Despite this, I was repeatedly treated as though I was doing something wrong simply because the prescription involved a controlled medication.
On multiple occasions I was told my prescription would be ready within a certain timeframe, only to return hours later and be told it was still not available. There were also days where the pharmacy refused to release my medication entirely, resulting in me experiencing severe withdrawals overnight. The following day, staff would casually inform me that the prescription was suddenly "ready," despite knowing the medical consequences of interrupting treatment.
I also experienced serious communication failures. The pharmacy did not contact me proactively when issues arose, forcing me to repeatedly call and attend the store in person for answers. Over the course of a single week, I had approximately 20 phone calls with the pharmacy and only successfully received my medication on 4 out of 7 days.
Most concerning was an incident where pharmacy staff attempted to force me to take all 6 of my prescribed 8mg Dilaudid tablets observed at once, alongside Suboxone. I refused due to concerns for my safety and wellbeing. After escalating the matter to multiple staff members, it was eventually acknowledged that my prescription was not even supposed to be observed dosing in the first place.
In addition to the medical and physical distress this caused, I found the conduct and attitude of certain staff members extremely cold, dismissive, and lacking compassion. At one point, while visibly distressed and explaining that I was afraid of becoming sick from withdrawal, I was told to "figure it out yourself." No patient should ever be treated that way.
I understand pharmacies have policies and procedures that must be followed. However, there is a difference between following policy and treating patients with dignity, communication, professionalism, and basic human compassion. I do not believe the treatment I received met those standards.
I am requesting that this matter be formally reviewed by management and corporate leadership. I would appreciate a response regarding what steps will be taken to investigate this situation and address the conduct and handling of my care.
Thank you for your time and attention to this matter. read more