Advancing access to care in Amherst

In communities across the country, access to primary care has become increasingly challenging for millions of Canadians. At the Loblaw Community Pharmacy Primary Care Clinic (CPPCC) in Amherst, NS, pharmacist Samuel Mall is helping to increase access to care by fully embracing the expanded scope of pharmacy practice that Nova Scotia offers.

Educated at Keele University in England, Samuel gained valuable experience supporting primary care over several years in the UK, with his most extensive work in Blackpool and additional opportunities in Manchester, London, and Liverpool before turning his sights back to Canada. “In England, I moved around, looking for opportunities to provide care to patients in areas where I could be most helpful,” says Samuel. “In some townsthere was a serious shortage in doctors and those are the areas I was drawn to because of the positive impact I felt I could have on patients’ health.”

In 2024, the opportunity to lead the CPPCC in Amherst came up and Samuel knew he had to jump on it. “I was used to working in underserved communities, but the lack of access to primary care and the amount of people without a family doctor in Amherst was far worse than what I had seen up to that point,” says Samuel.

“I brought my experience and skillset back to Canada where I knew I could embed myself in the community to make a real difference.”

Through his work in chronic disease management, diagnostic and acute care assessments, and the treatment of minor ailments, Samuel is helping residents access timely, community-based care in this small town.

“My goal is to make sure people can get the care they need, when they need it, right here in town,” Samuel says. “If I can help someone manage a condition or address a concern sooner, and without an 8-hour wait in the emergency room, that makes a real difference in their day-to-day life.”

By offering clinical services that complement the broader healthcare system, Samuel is helping reduce pressure on traditional access points, especially in a province where many residents are still searching for a primary care provider. His work shows how pharmacists can improve access, support continuity of care, and strengthen patient outcomes, particularly in smaller communities.

Samuel’s leadership has also made a strong impact locally. “Samuel has shown what’s possible when pharmacists practice to their full scope,” notes Paula Soper, Director of Pharmacy Operations. “He’s helping to increase access, taking the pressure of emergency room doctors and nurses, and patients trust him because he’s part of the community.”

Samuel is quick to credit Nova Scotia’s expanded scope of practice for making this work possible. “Expanded scope gives us the tools to support our communities in new ways, and the Community Pharmacy PrimaryCare Clinic has given my patients a place to come where they feel comfortable having open discussions with me about their health,” he says. “I never imagined being able to help patients in this way as a pharmacist, but every day my patients show me just how much they appreciate and trust the care I am able to provide.”

As we close out Pharmacy Appreciation Month, Samuel’s dedication is a powerful reminder of the impact pharmacy teams have across the country. His work in Amherst shows how pharmacists are helping bridge gaps in care, improve access, and support healthier communities.