The Globe and Mail reports in its Saturday, May 31, edition that the Ontario government is considering a rule that would allow patients to access any pharmacy of their choice through a mandatory exemption, regardless of exclusive agreements with preferred pharmacies by their private insurers. The Globe's triple bylined item led by Chris Hannay reports that the Ontario government is seeking feedback on a proposed rule regarding exclusivity deals between insurers and pharmacies, known as preferred pharmacy networks (PPNs). Supporters argue these deals can reduce costs and maintain service standards, while critics, including other pharmacies and patient advocates, claim they limit patient choice and may harm health outcomes. A second option the government is considering more closely is what it calls an "any-able-and-willing-provider" (AAWP) model, which would require insurers to allow a wide range of health care providers into their networks. An "any-willing-provider" measure would replace "closed" PPNs -- where patients can only get reimbursed for medication from specific pharmacy partners with "open" PPNs. This allows more pharmacies to join if they meet certain quality and pricing standards.