The Globe and Mail reports in its Friday, Jan. 17, edition that Ontario's pharmacy regulator is mulling a motion to sanction pharmacies that enter exclusive agreements with insurers, limiting how patients access medications. A triple bylined item in The Globe reports that this move addresses the rising concerns over preferred pharmacy networks (PPNs). A board member from the Ontario College of Pharmacists proposed the motion, which would deem any pharmacy or pharmacist involved in such pay or directed care models as violating the regulator's code of ethics. If passed, the motion would require anyone accredited by the college, or directors and shareholders of accredited corporations, to exit agreements within 12 months. Pharmacy professionals would also need to attest they do not participate in PPNs when renewing their accreditation. A legal review of the proposal is now under way, and the board will deliberate on the motion at its next meeting, scheduled for March 24. Insurance companies claim that PPNs can save on group benefits plans amid rising drug prices, but the opaque terms make it difficult to quantify those savings or to demonstrate whether savings trickle down to plan members.