Skip the wait. See a pharmacist for common conditions.

A minor ailment is a common health problem that usually clears up quickly and can be safely managed with a short course of treatment, like pink eye, a bladder infection or a cold sore. Ontario lets pharmacists assess and prescribe for a set list of them.

Yes. The pharmacist’s assessment is paid for by the province when you show a valid Ontario health card. Any medicine you’re prescribed is paid like any other prescription: through your drug plan, ODB, OHIP+ or out of pocket. The province limits how many free visits you can have for the same condition in a year. If a problem keeps coming back, we’ll usually suggest seeing your doctor, since it may be more than a minor ailment.

Yes, for certain conditions on the list, such as uncomplicated bladder infections, bacterial pink eye, impetigo, and preventing Lyme disease after a tick bite. Things like strep throat and ear infections still need a doctor or nurse practitioner for now.

No. Text or call us first so we can make sure a pharmacist is free, or check in online for a walk-in.

Your Ontario health card, your drug plan card if you have one, and a list of the medications you take. For a tick bite, bring the tick in a sealed bag if you can.

Yes. Many conditions on the list, like diaper rash, impetigo, pinworms and pink eye, are common in kids. Bring your child and their health card.

Yes. When we prescribe for a minor ailment, we let your family doctor or nurse practitioner know, so your records stay complete. If you don’t have one, we keep the record here for you.

Ontario’s regulations list the specific medicines pharmacists can prescribe for each condition, including combination products when every ingredient is on the list. Each condition page shows examples by generic and brand name.