Chatham

Pharmacists healthcare role expanded again

The provincial government has expanded the list of ailments that pharmacists are able to treat and prescribe medications for.

"Expanding the list of common ailments pharmacists can treat, people will now get faster, more convenient access to the care they need closer to home while helping to further reduce wait times at our community clinics and hospitals,” Sylvia Jones, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health, said. "Pharmacist prescribing has been a huge success and Ontario is now one of the leading jurisdictions in Canada in providing convenient health care services through pharmacies."

According to Justin Bates, the CEO of the Ontario Pharmacists Association, the minor ailments program has had a tremendous impact. "Since the program launched earlier this year there have been more than 400,000 pharmacy assessments for minor ailments," he said.

Since January 1, 2023, pharmacists have been able to treat:

  • hay fever (allergic rhinitis)

  • oral thrush (candidal stomatitis)

  • pink eye (conjunctivitis; bacterial, allergic, and viral)

  • dermatitis (atopic, eczema, allergic, and contact)

  • menstrual cramps (dysmenorrhea)

  • acid reflux (gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD))

  • hemorrhoids

  • cold sores (herpes labialis)

  • impetigo

  • insect bites and hives

  • tick bites (post-exposure prophylaxis to prevent Lyme disease)

  • sprains and strains (musculoskeletal)

  • urinary tract infections (UTIs)

As of October 1, 2023, people will be able to visit a local pharmacy to receive prescriptions for:

  • acne

  • canker sores

  • diaper rash

  • yeast infections

  • parasitic worms (pinworms and threadworms)

  • nausea and vomiting in pregnancy

Recent changes by the province also allow pharmacists to administer certain injection and inhalation treatments such as insulin, vitamin B12, or osteoporosis treatment. Ontarians can now access this service at their local pharmacy for a professional fee, similar to fees to receive travel vaccines.

The government assured that the changes have been made in partnership with the Ontario College of Pharmacists.

Read More Local Stories

Equipment stolen during industrial break-in

Sarnia police are investigating a break-in at an industrial property on Scott Road, where thieves reportedly rammed a vehicle into the fence, causing significant damage.

© Can Stock Photo / bobloblaw66

Tax rebate coming as Ontario projects lower deficit in Fall Economic Statement

Few surprises were in the fall economic statement that was released Wednesday and included a $200 taxpayer rebate and the continuation of gas tax cuts.

The "Amazing Grace” team from Grace United Church participating in the 2023 Walk a Mile event at Lambton Mall. Submitted photo.

United Church Reverend challenging others to Walk a Mile

Grace United Church Reverend Dr. Kenji Marui said they've noticed the attendance has been lacking for the Women's Interval Home fundraiser in recent years.

Lambton County Warden Kevin Marriott with the World U17 Challenge Cup at the Lambton County Administration Building. Submitted.

World U17 Challenge Cup on display before tournament starts

The prestigious World Under 17 Challenge Cup is being displayed at the Lambton Heritage Museum for the next few days.

(L-R) Wyoming Lions Club President Jeff Hackett, Lions District Governor A1 Keith Ryan, St Joseph’s Hospice Special Events Coordinator Tammy Witcher, Hospice Director of Fund Development Maria Muscedere, Lions International MDA Treasurer Eric Dolansky

Over $60K raised for St. Joseph's Hospice

The hospice's 10-bed residence, located at 475 Christina Street North, opened its doors in 2009.

A variety of Sure plant-based milk products affected by a recall, July 8, 2024. Photo provided by Canadian Food Inspection Agency.

Ontario plant linked to listeria outbreak wasn't following prevention protocols

The third-party manufacturing plant in Pickering linked to the recall of Silk and Great Value brand plant-based milk products remains closed.