Minor Ailments in Ontario: What Your Pharmacist Can Now Prescribe

Since January 1, 2023, Ontario pharmacists are authorized to assess and independently prescribe treatment for 19 minor ailments — no doctor's appointment required. This means faster, more convenient access to care for everyday conditions like urinary tract infections, pink eye, and skin rashes, available directly at City Life Pharmacy in downtown Toronto.

What Is a Minor Ailment?

A minor ailment is a short-term, low-risk health condition that can be safely assessed and treated by a licensed pharmacist without a physician referral. Ontario's expanded scope of practice regulation (O. Reg. 202/94) now allows pharmacists to prescribe medications for these conditions after completing a structured patient assessment.

The 19 Minor Ailments Covered in Ontario

Ontario pharmacists can now assess and prescribe for the following conditions: allergic rhinitis, candidal stomatitis (oral thrush), conjunctivitis (pink eye), dermatitis (eczema and contact dermatitis), dysmenorrhea (menstrual cramps), gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), hemorrhoids, herpes labialis (cold sores), impetigo, insect bites and urticaria (hives), tick bites, musculoskeletal sprains and strains, nausea and vomiting in pregnancy, oropharyngeal candidiasis, urinary tract infections (UTIs) in women aged 16 to 65, and shingles (herpes zoster).

How It Works at City Life Pharmacy

When you visit City Life Pharmacy for a minor ailment, our licensed pharmacist will conduct a private consultation to assess your symptoms. This typically takes 10 to 20 minutes. Based on the assessment, we can prescribe and dispense medication on the spot — no waiting room, no referral needed. If your condition falls outside the minor ailment guidelines or requires further investigation, we will refer you to the appropriate healthcare provider.

Is There a Cost?

The pharmacist consultation for minor ailments is covered under OHIP for eligible Ontario residents — meaning there is no fee for the assessment itself. You will still be responsible for the cost of any prescribed medications, which may be covered by your private drug plan. City Life Pharmacy accepts most private insurance plans and can assist you with coverage questions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a pharmacist prescribe antibiotics in Ontario?

Yes. For certain conditions within the minor ailment framework, Ontario pharmacists can prescribe antibiotics. For example, pharmacists can prescribe antibiotics for uncomplicated urinary tract infections in women aged 16 to 65, impetigo, and other eligible bacterial conditions.

Do I need a health card to see a pharmacist for a minor ailment?

You will need a valid Ontario health card (OHIP) for the consultation to be covered at no cost. If you do not have OHIP coverage, a consultation fee may apply. Please call us at 416-214-2489 to ask about current fees.

How is this different from seeing my doctor?

For minor ailments, a pharmacist assessment is clinically equivalent — and significantly faster. There is no appointment required and no waiting weeks to be seen. For complex, recurring, or serious conditions, your family physician or a specialist remains the appropriate provider. Pharmacists will always refer patients when a condition is outside their prescribing scope.

Where is City Life Pharmacy located?

City Life Pharmacy & Compounding Centre is located at 35 Lower Simcoe Street, Toronto, Ontario. We are open Monday to Friday from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM and Saturday from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM. No appointment is needed for minor ailment consultations — walk-ins are welcome.

Written by Rimon El-Serafi, RPh.