TORONTO — Starting today, Ontarians with 13 common medical conditions can skip the doctor's office and go straight to a pharmacist for a prescription.
The provincial government says pharmacists are now empowered to prescribe medications for ailments such as conjunctivitis/pink eye, hemorrhoids and urinary tract infections.
The province says residents simply need to bring their health card to a participating pharmacy.
Both Shoppers Drug Mart and Rexall say their pharmacists can provide the service today.
But the head of the Ontario Pharmacists' Association said people should expect some kick-off time.
Justin Bates said Ontario residents should call their pharmacy or visit their website to find out if they would like to fill a prescription.
The provincial government says the new program will come at no additional cost to Ontarians and will free up doctors' time to treat more complex conditions.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published on Jan. 1, 2023.
The Canadian Press
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