If you’ve ever stood in front of your pill bottles and wondered if everything you’re taking is really helping, or worried whether one prescription might be clashing with another, you’re not alone. Many people juggle several medications every single day, often prescribed by different doctors at different times. It can feel complicated, sometimes even overwhelming.
That’s precisely why the MedsCheck program exists. While every pharmacy in Ontario can provide it, at Sunshine Drugs family of pharmacies, we see it as part of what we call the patient care difference. It involves sitting down with someone who knows your medications and story, taking the time to walk through the details, and leaving you feeling more confident in your care plan. That’s the Sunshine Way!
What is a MedsCheck?
Essentially, a MedsCheck is a free appointment with a pharmacist to review your medications. It’s funded by the Ontario Ministry of Health, so if you qualify, there’s no cost at all.
But in practice, it’s much more personal than that. The appointment usually lasts 20 to 30 minutes, and it’s your chance to ask all the questions you don’t always get to ask in a busy doctor’s office:
- What exactly does this medication do?
- Are there foods or supplements I should avoid while taking it?
- Could one of these pills be causing the side effects I’ve noticed?
- Am I on anything that I might not need anymore?
Think of it less as a checklist and more as a conversation. A MedsCheck works best when you bring in your prescriptions, vitamins, herbal products, and even over-the-counter items like pain relievers. That way, your pharmacist can see the whole picture of what you’re taking.
Who qualifies for MedsCheck?
In Ontario, you’re eligible if you take three or more prescription medications for chronic conditions. That could mean someone managing high blood pressure, diabetes, or asthma with a few different drugs.
You also qualify if you:
- Are living with diabetes (even if you’re on fewer than three prescriptions).
- Have recently left the hospital and had new medications added.
- Live in a long-term care facility.
- Recently had your doctor change or add to your prescriptions.
This program isn’t for people with one-off prescriptions like antibiotics or who aren’t OHIP-insured. But it’s invaluable for many patients, especially those balancing several long-term medications.
Why MedsCheck Matters for Your Health
When you’re on multiple prescriptions, the risk of drug interactions is real. Sometimes two medications reduce each other’s effectiveness. Sometimes one intensifies the side effects of another. In a MedsCheck, pharmacists can flag these issues before they cause serious harm.
But the value isn’t just clinical. It brings peace of mind. Many people leave their MedsCheck appointment saying, “I finally understand why I’m taking each of these.” That sense of clarity can make all the difference in sticking to a treatment plan.
There’s also the practical benefit of reducing unnecessary medications. It’s not uncommon for someone to still be taking a pill that was meant only for short-term use. Catching those oversights keeps your routine simpler and safer.
At Sunshine Drugs, we make these reviews part of an ongoing relationship. You’re not limited to a one-time MedsCheck; you can book another if your medications change or you need a refresher. It’s part of seeing ourselves as partners in your health journey.
The Sunshine Way Difference
Pharmacies across Ontario offer MedsCheck, but how it’s delivered makes all the difference. At Sunshine Drugs, we call this The Sunshine Way—a warm, supportive approach that goes beyond the prescription list. We set aside extra time so you never feel rushed. We welcome family members as part of the process. We use plain, clear language instead of industry jargon. And above all, we listen.
That’s what we mean by the Sunshine Way difference: empowering you with knowledge, making sure your medications are working for you (not against you), and helping you feel confident in your care plan.
If you’re managing multiple prescriptions—or even if you’re simply curious whether your current plan is the best it can be—book a MedsCheck today. It’s free, it’s simple, and it could make a lasting difference to your health.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a MedsCheck, and how does it work at a Sunshine Drugs-owned pharmacy?
It’s a free consultation with one of our pharmacists. We go through all your medications together, answer your questions, and give you a written record to take home.
How can I check if I qualify?
If you’re taking three or more prescription drugs for ongoing conditions, you almost certainly qualify. If you’re unsure, ask us; we’ll help you figure it out.
How much does it cost?
Nothing. OHIP covers it for those who are eligible.
What should I bring?
Bring every medication you take: prescription, over-the-counter, vitamins, and herbal remedies. The fuller the list, the more helpful the review.
Can I book one for my parent?
Yes. Many caregivers book MedsCheck appointments for parents or relatives. You’re welcome to attend the appointment with them.
References
Government of Ontario. (2023). MedsCheck program. Ontario Ministry of Health. http://www.ontario.ca/page/professional-pharmacy-services
Ontario Pharmacists Association. (2022). Medication reviews: MedsCheck. https://www.opatoday.com/professional/resources/medication-reviews