New to Canada? Did you know? Your Local Pharmacist prescribes medication for minor ailments – FREE with OHIP!
- guara77
- Aug 5
- 3 min read
Updated: Sep 5
If you’re new to Canada, understanding how healthcare works can feel overwhelming. But here’s something simple and helpful: in Ontario, your local pharmacist can now assess and prescribe medication for 19 common minor ailments—without needing to visit a doctor.
Best of all, the appointment is completely FREE with your Ontario Health Card (OHIP). That means you don’t need to wait in a clinic for everyday health concerns. Just visit a pharmacy like Yonge + Eglinton Pharmacy, speak with our pharmacist, and get the help you need—fast!
Don’t have an OHIP card?
No problem! If you are not yet covered by OHIP, you can still access this service. The assessment fee is just $19.00, to get a fast, affordable way to improve your health.
What is a minor ailment?
Minor ailments are common, short-term health issues that are easily identified and treated. Pharmacists assess your condition and provide treatment, including prescriptions, when needed.
Here are the 19 minor ailments Ontario pharmacists can help with—and what they mean:
1. Acne (Mild) – Whiteheads, blackheads, or pimples on the skin
2. Aphthous ulcers (Canker Sores) – Small, painful ulcers in the mouth
3. Allergic rhinitis (hay fever) – Sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes
4. Candidal stomatitis (oral thrush) – White patches in the mouth caused by yeast
5. Conjunctivitis ( Pink Eye) – Red, itchy, or watery eyes from bacteria, viruses, or allergies
6. Dermatitis / Eczema – Dry, itchy, inflamed skin
7. Dysmenorrhea (menstrual pain) – Menstrual pain before or during your period
8. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) – Burning sensation in the chest or throat
9. Hemorrhoids - are swollen or irritated veins or blood vessels in and around your bottom.
10. Herpes labialis (cold sores) – Blisters around the lips or mouth
11. Impetigo – A Contagious skin infection, common in kids
12. Insect bites and urticaria (Hives) – Itchy, swollen skin from bites or allergic reaction
13. Musculoskeletal sprains and strains – Minor joint or muscle pain
14. Nausea and vomiting of pregnancy – Nausea and vomiting during pregnancy
15. Pinworms & threadworms – Itchy sensation around the anus, often in children
16. Diaper dermatitis (diaper rash) – Redness, swelling, or discharge from minor wounds
17. Tick Bites – If you've been bitten, we can help prevent Lyme disease
18. UTIs – Pain or burning when urinating
19. Vulvovaginal candidiasis (Yeast Infections) – Itching or discomfort from a fungal infection
How does it work?
Bring your Ontario Health Card to the pharmacy.
Have a private consultation with our pharmacist.
If needed, receive a prescription or over-the-counter recommendation right away.
No appointment necessary – walk-ins are welcome.
If you want to book an appointment, click here.
In person or virtual visit- Your choice
You don’t need to leave home to get the help you need. We offer both in-person and virtual consultations, so you can speak to a pharmacist from the comfort and convenience of your own space—whether that's your home, work, or wherever you feel safe.
FREE prescription delivery whithin our area
Once you get your prescription, you don’t even need to leave your home! We offer FREE local delivery for prescriptions and pharmacy items in our service area.
We are here to help!
At Yonge + Eglinton Pharmacy, we believe healthcare should be accessible and stress-free, especially for newcomers. Whether you have OHIP coverage or not, we’re here to help you feel better quickly and comfortably.
Share this information with your friends, family, and loved ones, as everyone deserves personalized health care!
📍 Visit us today or call to learn more.
