As our modern lives become increasingly busy, the demand for prompt and accessible healthcare solutions has never been greater.
In January 2023, it was announced that Ontario would make healthcare more convenient for individuals by allowing them to stop at pharmacies where trained pharmacists will be able to prescribe medicines for common ailments. All these services will be provided at no charge to individuals.
There are thirteen common ailments that Ontarians will be able to receive prescriptions for, including insect bites, pink eye, rashes, and urinary tract infections. All they need to provide is their health card. Through this service, individuals will not have to book a doctor’s appointment and wait for hours at the doctor’s office.
What the Ministry of Health Has Said About Minor Prescribing
This move allows individuals to stop at their local pharmacy, where they can be treated for some common illnesses, allowing care to be closer to their homes.
It allows people to be at the centre of the healthcare system so that pharmacists can quickly provide help to those who need it most within the community.
Here are the ailments that minor prescribing will be used for:
- Uncomplicated urinary tract infections
- Cold sores (herpes labialis)
- Dysmenorrhea
- Hives (urticaria) and insect bites
- Allergic rhinitis
- Musculoskeletal sprains and strains
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
- Bacterial, allergic, and viral conjunctivitis
- Hemorrhoids
- Allergic and contact dermatitis, atopic eczema
- Candidal stomatitis (oral thrush)
- Impetigo
- Lyme disease prevention: post-exposure prophylaxis for tick bites
This change enables Ontarians to receive immediate care by visiting a pharmacy for appropriate medication. It offers patients more healthcare access options, allowing those with common ailments to consult a pharmacist instead of visiting a doctor’s office.
The best part is that pharmacists will be able to provide care to patients in rural areas. Increasing convenience is not the only benefit – minor prescribing will free up doctor’s so that they can take care of more complicated patient cases, lowering the wait time required for these services.
Things to Know about Minor Prescribing
A common ailment refers to any health condition that can be diagnosed by one’s self and managed with minimal care strategies.
If you are suffering from symptoms that match any of the above-mentioned conditions, you should first call your local pharmacist and find out whether they are offering services for the ailment you are looking for.
Conclusion
Now, Ontario pharmacists will apply their expertise to manage minor ailments, allowing individuals to access the care they need more conveniently, closer to their workplaces and homes. Stop by one of our locations today, and we’ll be more than happy to help you with your minor ailments.