Minor Ailment Assessment by Ontario Pharmacists | Sponsored by Pharmasave

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Recently, Pharmacists in Ontario have expanded their scope of practice to help assess and treat certain minor ailments. Minor ailments are uncomplicated, short-term conditions that don’t require lab tests or blood work and can often be managed with minimal treatment. 

A common ailment may be treated with “at-home” or self-care treatments, with over-the-counter medication treatments, or with prescription medication. 

The list of ailments that can be assessed by a Pharmacist in Ontario includes Allergic rhinitis, Oral thrush, Conjunctivitis, Dermatitis, Acid reflux, Hemorrhoids, Cold sores, Minor strains and sprains, Impetigo, uncomplicated Urinary Tract Infections, Dysmenorrhea and Insect bites and Tick bites. 

There are still a number of common conditions that must be assessed by a Primary care Physician or Nurse Practitioner, including chest infections, sinus infections, ear and throat infections, and dental infections. These types of conditions would not be eligible for a prescription by your Pharmacist. 

What to expect at your Pharmacy 

If you are experiencing one of the 13 common minor ailments listed above, we recommend you call your Pharmacist to have a quick discussion before visiting the pharmacy. This may save you a trip if you are not eligible for a prescription, and also helps your pharmacy staff manage their workload by making an appointment for you if applicable. When you visit the Pharmacy, bring your Ontario Health Card and be prepared to answer some questions about your current symptoms, health status, allergies, and any other medications you are taking. The Pharmacist may or may not be able to prescribe you medications based on your answers, but will do a full assessment to safely treat or refer you for the optimal outcome.

Carolyn Croxall, RPh, Pharmacist 

Carolyn has been a pharmacist in Huntsville for 16 years. She loves being a part of the local community and enjoys the outdoors and being active with her family. She looks forward to seeing old and new faces at Pharmasave. 

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