Many medication-related problems don’t come from the drugs themselves—but from how medications are taken together. Missed doses, duplicate therapies, interactions, and outdated prescriptions are common, especially for patients managing chronic conditions.
To address this, Ontario offers a free pharmacist-led medication review program. Yet many eligible patients are unaware it exists or don’t realize how valuable it can be.
This guide explains how this medication review works in Ontario, who qualifies, what happens during a review, and how it can help you take control of your medications in 2025.
What Is MedsCheck?
MedsCheck is a free medication review service funded by the Ontario Ministry of Health and delivered by licensed pharmacists.
Its purpose is to:
- Improve medication safety
- Reduce drug interactions
- Ensure medications are still appropriate
- Help patients understand how and when to take their medications
There is no cost to the patient.
Who Is Eligible for this medication review in Ontario?
You may qualify for MedsCheck if you:
- Live in Ontario
- Have a valid OHIP card
- Take three or more prescription medications for chronic conditions
Eligibility is not based on age alone—many working adults qualify.
Types of MedsCheck Programs
Ontario offers several MedsCheck variations based on patient needs.
1. Annual
- For patients taking three or more chronic medications
- Can be done once every 12 months
2. Follow-Up
- Available when medications change or issues arise
- Helps reassess therapy and adherence
3. Check at Home
- For homebound patients or those receiving home care
- Conducted in the patient’s residence
4. For Diabetes
- Tailored for patients managing diabetes
- Focuses on blood sugar control, insulin use, and adherence
What Happens During a MedsCheck Appointment?
A MedsCheck appointment typically includes:
- Review of all prescription medications
- Discussion of over-the-counter products and supplements
- Identification of side effects or interactions
- Clarification of dosing and timing
- Review of adherence challenges
You will receive a personalized medication list to keep.
Common Issues Identified During MedsCheck
Medication reviews often uncover:
- Duplicate therapies
- Incorrect dosing schedules
- Drug interactions
- Medications no longer needed
- Confusion about instructions
Addressing these issues can improve safety and effectiveness.
Benefits of MedsCheck
Patients who participate in MedsCheck often experience:
- Better understanding of their medications
- Improved adherence
- Fewer side effects
- Reduced risk of hospitalization
- Greater confidence in managing chronic conditions
When You Should Consider a MedsCheck
You should book a MedsCheck if:
- You take multiple medications daily
- Your prescriptions have recently changed
- You see multiple healthcare providers
- You feel unsure about your medication routine
- You manage conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, or heart disease
How to Book a MedsCheck
Booking is simple:
- Contact your pharmacy
- Schedule an appointment with a pharmacist
- Bring all medications and supplements
At Viva Health Pharmacy, MedsCheck appointments are personalized and confidential.
The Pharmacist’s Role in Ongoing Medication Care
Medication management is not a one-time task. Pharmacists can:
- Monitor therapy changes
- Coordinate with prescribers
- Provide follow-up reviews
- Support long-term adherence
This ongoing relationship is key to safe, effective treatment.
MedsCheck is one of Ontario’s most underused healthcare services—despite being free and highly effective. If you take multiple medications, a medication review can help ensure your treatment plan remains safe, clear, and optimized.
For more information or to book a MedsCheck appointment, speak with the team at Viva Health Pharmacy in Richmond Hill.
Why Medication Reviews Are Important for Patients Taking Multiple Medications
Many medication-related problems occur not because of the medications themselves but because of how they are taken together. Patients managing chronic conditions often take several prescriptions, vitamins, or over-the-counter products at the same time. A MedsCheck medication review helps pharmacists identify potential problems such as duplicate therapies, incorrect dosing schedules, or drug interactions.
During the review, pharmacists also help patients understand:
- how each medication works
- when and how to take each medication
- possible side effects or interactions
- whether any medications may no longer be necessary
These reviews typically last 20–30 minutes and are funded by the Ontario government for eligible patients, meaning there is no cost to the patient.
Additional Medical Support at Viva Health Centre
If a medication review identifies issues that require medical attention—such as adjusting a prescription or evaluating a new symptom—patients may benefit from visiting Viva Health Centre. Healthcare providers at the clinic can assess medical conditions and prescribe appropriate treatments when necessary.
Together, Viva Health Centre and Viva Health Pharmacy provide coordinated care by combining medical consultations with pharmacist-led medication management.
