Loblaw Companies Limited announced the establishment of a new committee of its Board of Directors entitled the Patient Care and Quality Committee. The decision to evolve its corporate governance framework was motivated by the Company's commitment to delivering excellence in healthcare, advancing patient safety and experience, and driving positive health outcomes for Canadians. The Patient Care and Quality Committee will be comprised of members of the Loblaw Board of Directors and be advised by independent external healthcare experts.

The structure of the committee is based on the leading governance model adopted by top hospitals and healthcare institutions across the country, and will focus on quality improvement, health outcomes, critical incidents, and risk management for the Company's healthcare-focused operations, including Shoppers Drug Mart, Loblaw Pharmacies, and Lifemark. In the evolving Canadian healthcare system, pharmacists are being called upon to provide more primary care for patients and play an increasing role in alleviating pressure on existing healthcare resources and practitioners. Across Canada, the expanded scope of practice for pharmacists provides the opportunity to ease the burden on emergency services and improve health outcomes and access for patients, especially those living with chronic conditions.