Yes. In Ontario, pharmacists can assess you and prescribe medication for a list of common, minor health problems. This can save you a trip to a clinic, and it is useful when you don't have a family doctor.
What pharmacists can do
A pharmacist will assess you first, to decide whether prescribing is right for you. If it is, they can prescribe from a set list of drugs for that ailment.
If the pharmacist decides not to prescribe, they will explain why and give you a plan for what to do next. That plan may include a referral to another health care provider. If treatment doesn't work, they may suggest you get further assessment.
The 28 minor ailments
Under Ontario College of Pharmacists rules, pharmacists can treat these:
Skin
- Mild acne
- Dermatitis (eczema, allergic, or contact)
- Diaper dermatitis
- Seborrheic dermatitis (dandruff)
- Calluses and corns
- Warts (not on the face or genitals)
- Ringworm (tinea corporis)
- Jock itch (tinea cruris)
- Impetigo
- Cold sores (herpes labialis)
- Insect bites and hives
- Head lice
Eyes, nose, and mouth
- Pink eye (conjunctivitis, bacterial, allergic, or viral)
- Dry eye
- Allergic rhinitis (hay fever)
- Viral rhinitis and nasal congestion
- Canker sores (aphthous ulcers)
- Oral thrush (candidal stomatitis)
Stomach and bowel
- Acid reflux (GERD)
- Hemorrhoids
- Pinworms and threadworms
Urinary and women's health
- Uncomplicated urinary tract infections (UTIs)
- Vaginal yeast infections
- Painful periods (dysmenorrhea)
- Nausea and vomiting of pregnancy
Pain and muscles
- Mild tension headache
- Muscle and joint sprains and strains
Ticks
- Tick bites, with medication to help prevent Lyme disease after exposure
Do I need an appointment or a health card?
You need an OHIP card. You don't need a referral. The College's page doesn't say you need an appointment, but it encourages patients to ask their pharmacist which services are offered, because not every pharmacy offers every service. Calling ahead is a good idea.
What does it cost?
There is no cost to you for the assessment when you have an OHIP card. Medications prescribed at a pharmacy are not covered by OHIP, but other programs may help pay for them.
What if I don't have a family doctor?
Pharmacists have to tell your primary care provider about the visit within a reasonable time. If you don't have one, the pharmacist takes on the follow-up until your care is passed to someone else.
If your problem isn't on the list, or it doesn't get better, you may need to see a doctor or nurse practitioner. You can call 811 any time for advice on where to go (see when to call Health811). Our Find a Family Doctor page lists ways to look for a doctor of your own.