Fast, Accessible Care From the Pharmacy You Trust
If you’ve ever waited days for a doctor’s appointment to treat a simple rash or bladder infection, there’s good news. In Ontario, pharmacists can now assess and prescribe medications for minor ailments — saving you time, money, and unnecessary clinic visits.
At Viva Health Pharmacy in Richmond Hill, our trained pharmacists offer walk-in consultations and same-day care for over a dozen common health concerns. This guide will help you understand what pharmacists can treat, when to see one, and how it improves your overall health experience.
What Are Minor Ailments?
Minor ailments are common health conditions that are usually self-limiting (i.e., they go away on their own), but can benefit from quick treatment. Examples include pink eye, urinary tract infections, insect bites, and cold sores — conditions that don’t require lab tests or specialist care but can disrupt your daily life.
Since January 1, 2023, pharmacists in Ontario have been authorized to assess and prescribe for these ailments under expanded provincial regulations.
Which Conditions Can Pharmacists Treat?
Pharmacists at Viva Health Pharmacy are trained to manage the following 19 minor ailments, following Ontario College of Pharmacists guidelines:
- Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) (uncomplicated)
- Pink Eye (Conjunctivitis)
- Allergic Rhinitis (Hay Fever)
- Cold Sores (Oral Herpes)
- Canker Sores (Mouth Ulcers)
- Hemorrhoids
- Eczema / Atopic Dermatitis
- Contact Dermatitis (Rashes/Irritation)
- Insect Bites and Hives
- Acid Reflux (GERD)
- Sprains and Strains
- Menstrual Pain (Dysmenorrhea)
- Mild Acne
- Diaper Rash
- Oral Thrush (Yeast Infection in Mouth)
- Pinworms and Threadworms
- Tick Bites
- Impetigo
- Nasal Allergies
No doctor visit needed — just walk into Viva Health Pharmacy or book a consultation.
Why See a Pharmacist First?
Pharmacists are among the most accessible healthcare professionals in Canada — and now they can do more than ever before. Here’s why it makes sense to see a pharmacist for minor issues:
1. Faster Access to Care
No need to wait days for an appointment or hours in a walk-in clinic. At Viva Health Pharmacy, you can get help the same day, often within minutes.
2. Same Effective Treatments
Our pharmacists can prescribe the same medications a doctor would — including antibiotics, topical creams, or antihistamines — based on your symptoms and history.
3. Reduced Strain on Healthcare System
Choosing a pharmacist for minor ailments helps reduce traffic in clinics and ERs, making room for those who need urgent medical care.
4. Personalized Advice
We take time to answer your questions, explain side effects, and help you understand how to manage your condition or prevent future flare-ups.
What to Expect at Viva Health Pharmacy
Our minor ailments service is simple, convenient, and walk-in friendly:
Step 1: Tell Us Your Symptoms
You’ll speak directly with our pharmacist in a private area or consultation room.
Step 2: Assessment
The pharmacist asks a few questions to confirm your symptoms and rule out complications.
Step 3: Prescription and Advice
If appropriate, you’ll receive a prescription — on the spot — with usage instructions and tips.
Step 4: Pick Up or Free Delivery
Take your medication with you or get it delivered at no cost within Richmond Hill and the GTA.
📍 Check out our full list of pharmacy services including blister packs, delivery, and medication reviews.
💡 Who Can Use This Service?
Our minor ailment assessments are ideal for:
- Busy professionals looking for quick, effective treatment
- Parents needing help with children’s rashes, pinworms, or allergic reactions
- Seniors managing mild recurring issues
- Anyone without a family doctor or waiting on referrals
You don’t need to be an existing patient — we welcome all walk-ins.
Is It Covered by OHIP or Insurance?
Yes — most consultations are covered by OHIP. If medication is prescribed, your existing insurance plan or drug benefit will apply, just like a doctor’s prescription.
We’ll explain any out-of-pocket costs up front.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I need an appointment?
A: No. You can walk in anytime during pharmacy hours or call to ask about availability.
Q: Can I still see my doctor later?
A: Yes. We can share a summary of your visit with your family doctor or clinic if needed.
Q: What if I have more serious symptoms?
A: If your symptoms fall outside the scope of pharmacist care, we’ll refer you to the appropriate clinic or emergency services.
Q: Is this service safe?
A: Absolutely. Pharmacists follow strict guidelines and only treat patients when it is clinically appropriate.
Why Viva Health Pharmacy?
We’re proud to serve the Richmond Hill community with a personalized approach. Here’s what makes us different:
| Feature | Viva Health Pharmacy |
|---|---|
| Walk-in consultations | ✅ |
| Over 19 minor ailments treated | ✅ |
| OHIP coverage | ✅ |
| On-site prescription services | ✅ |
| Free local delivery | ✅ |
| Friendly, multilingual staff | ✅ |
Visit us today at 10737 Yonge St, Richmond Hill, or call us with any questions.
🌐 Helpful External Resources
For more information, check out:
- Ontario College of Pharmacists – Minor Ailments
- Ontario Ministry of Health – Pharmacy Services
- Ontario Pharmacists Association – Minor Ailments
📞 Ready to Skip the Wait? Visit Us Today
Don’t let a small issue become a big one. Our pharmacists are ready to help with common conditions — no referral or appointment needed.
🔗 Contact Us for a Walk-In Consultation
📍 Viva Health Pharmacy – 10737 Yonge St, Richmond Hill
