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What Can a Pharmacist Prescribe in Ontario? The 2026 Minor Ailments Guide

Updated June 20, 2026 · 7 min read · Minor Ailments

Here's something a lot of people in Toronto still don't realize: starting July 1, 2026, you won't need a doctor for many everyday health problems. Under Ontario's Minor Ailments Program, a pharmacist will be able to assess and prescribe for 28 common conditions — no appointment, no referral, and for eligible patients, the assessment will be covered by OHIP. This guide walks through the full list and exactly how it'll work at St. Clair Drug Mart Pharmacy in St. Clair West.

What is the Minor Ailments Program?

A "minor ailment" is a common health condition that's well understood, short-term, and can be safely managed with self-care and, when needed, a prescription. Instead of waiting days for a doctor or hours at a walk-in clinic, you can have a trained pharmacist assess your symptoms on the spot and, if appropriate, prescribe treatment right away. It's faster for you and takes pressure off Ontario's busy clinics and emergency rooms.

The full list: 28 conditions your pharmacist will be able to treat

Starting July 1, 2026, Ontario pharmacists will be able to assess and prescribe for all of the following:

• Eyes: pink eye (conjunctivitis), dry eye
• Nose & allergies: allergic rhinitis (seasonal allergies), nasal congestion
• Mouth: oral thrush, cold sores, canker sores
• Pain: mild headache, period (menstrual) pain, sprains & strains
• Skin: acne, eczema/dermatitis, dandruff, impetigo, ringworm, warts, athlete's foot, jock itch, calluses & corns
• Digestive: heartburn/GERD, hemorrhoids
• Infections & pests: urinary tract infection (UTI), vaginal yeast infection, head lice, pinworms
• Bites: insect bites & stings, tick bites (including prevention of Lyme disease where appropriate)
• Pregnancy: nausea and vomiting in pregnancy

That's 28 conditions in total once the July 1, 2026 expansion takes effect — and Ontario has also confirmed several newly publicly funded vaccines arriving the same day, so the list keeps growing.

How an assessment works — step by step

1. You walk in or book online. No referral required. Same-day is usually no problem.
2. The pharmacist asks a few questions about your symptoms, your health history, and any medications you take.
3. You get a recommendation. That might be a prescription, an over-the-counter product, or — if your symptoms need a physician — a referral to the right place.
4. You leave with a plan, often in 10–15 minutes.

Does it cost anything?

For most minor ailments, the assessment will be covered by OHIP for patients with a valid Ontario health card — you'll pay nothing for the consultation. If a medication is prescribed, normal prescription coverage applies (your drug plan, or the cost of the medication itself). We'll always be upfront about any cost before you commit.

When a pharmacist will send you to a doctor

The program is designed with safety first. If your symptoms are severe, unusual, lasting longer than expected, or could be a sign of something more serious, the pharmacist's job is to recognize that and refer you to a physician or urgent care. You're not bypassing the system — you're being routed to the right level of care more quickly.

Why use your neighbourhood pharmacy for this?

At St. Clair Drug Mart Pharmacy, you're seen by a clinical pharmacist who has time to listen — not a 90-second rushed visit. We're an independent community pharmacy at 1203 St. Clair Ave W, serving the St. Clair West and Corso Italia neighbourhoods, and we can fill any prescription on the spot and arrange free local delivery if you'd rather not wait.

This article is general information, not medical advice. Eligibility and covered conditions are set by the Government of Ontario and may change. Speak with our pharmacist or your doctor about your specific situation.