Ontario residents no longer need to wait for a doctor’s appointment to receive treatment for many common health issues. Since recent scope‑of‑practice expansions, pharmacists can now assess and prescribe medications for 19 minor ailments.
This guide explains exactly what your pharmacist can treat, when to visit a pharmacy instead of a walk‑in clinic, and how Ontario’s updated rules help reduce wait times and improve access to care.
What Are Minor Ailments?
According to the Ministry of Health, a minor ailment is a common, uncomplicated condition that can be safely managed with prescription medications.
These conditions must be:
- Non‑urgent
- Short‑term
- Easily diagnosable
- Low risk of treatment failure
Conditions Pharmacists Can Treat in 2025
Ontario pharmacists can now assess and prescribe for:
- Allergic rhinitis
- Candidal stomatitis
- Conjunctivitis (bacterial, allergic)
- Dermatitis (atopic, contact, seborrheic)
- Diaper rash
- Dysmenorrhea
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
- Hemorrhoids
- Herpes labialis (cold sores)
- Impetigo
- Insect bites and hives
- Musculoskeletal pain
- Nausea & vomiting of pregnancy
- Oral thrush
- Parasitic infections (pinworms)
- Urinary tract infections (uncomplicated)
- Acne (mild)
- Eczema flare‑ups
This list empowers patients to access treatment on the same day, without lengthy delays.
Benefits of Pharmacist Prescribing
- Faster access to care
- Reduced walk‑in clinic congestion
- Lower overall healthcare costs
- Convenient evening and weekend availability
- Medication expertise at the point of care
When You Should Still See a Doctor
Pharmacists cannot treat:
- Severe infections
- Chronic disease flare‑ups requiring long‑term management
- Conditions requiring imaging or lab tests
But they can still guide you and help coordinate follow‑up.
How the Appointment Works
- Visit your pharmacy (walk‑in).
- Describe your symptoms.
- Pharmacist assesses your condition.
- If appropriate, they prescribe and dispense medication on the spot.
Many pharmacies, including Viva Health Pharmacy, offer free consultations.
Pharmacist prescribing is transforming healthcare in Ontario by giving patients safe, timely access to treatment. For minor ailments, your local pharmacist may be the fastest and most convenient option.
