Accessible Healthcare in Ottawa — Your Pharmacist Can Help

Since the expansion of pharmacist scope of practice in Ontario, registered pharmacists at Longfields Pharmacy are now authorized to assess and prescribe for over 19 minor ailments — without requiring you to see a doctor first.

This means faster access to treatment for common conditions like UTIs, cold sores, pink eye, eczema, and more. Our experienced pharmacists provide a thorough assessment, recommend or prescribe appropriate treatment, and follow up to ensure you're recovering well.

For Ottawa residents in Nepean, Barrhaven, and beyond, this service provides significant relief — particularly for those facing long wait times for family physician appointments. Get the care you need, when you need it, right at Longfields Pharmacy.

Conditions We Can Treat

Ontario pharmacists are authorized to assess and prescribe for the following 19 conditions — no doctor referral needed.

1Acne (mild)
2Allergic rhinitis
3Aphthous ulcers (canker sores)
4Candidal stomatitis (oral thrush)
5Conjunctivitis (bacterial, allergic, or viral)
6Dermatitis (atopic, allergic, or contact)
7Diaper dermatitis
8Dysmenorrhea
9Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
10Hemorrhoids
11Herpes labialis (cold sores)
12Impetigo
13Insect bites and urticaria (hives)
14Tick bites — Lyme disease prevention
15Musculoskeletal sprains and strains
16Nausea and vomiting of pregnancy
17Pinworms and threadworms
18Urinary tract infections (uncomplicated)
19Vulvovaginal candidiasis (yeast infection)

Why Choose Pharmacist-Led Minor Ailments Care

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Much faster than waiting for a doctor's appointment — often treated on the same visit

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OHIP-covered for eligible Ontario residents — no out-of-pocket cost for the consultation

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Thorough assessment by a highly trained registered pharmacist with clinical expertise

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Pharmacists can prescribe appropriate treatments directly — streamlined care

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Conveniently located in Nepean — easy access for Barrhaven and Ottawa residents

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Follow-up care and monitoring to ensure your condition is resolving properly

Frequently Asked Questions

Can't find the answer you're looking for? Call us at 613-440-9199.

What minor ailments can a pharmacist treat in Ontario?

Ontario pharmacists are authorized to assess and prescribe for exactly 19 conditions: acne (mild), allergic rhinitis, aphthous ulcers (canker sores), candidal stomatitis (oral thrush), conjunctivitis (bacterial, allergic, or viral), dermatitis (atopic, allergic, or contact), diaper dermatitis, dysmenorrhea, GERD, hemorrhoids, herpes labialis (cold sores), impetigo, insect bites and urticaria, tick bites (Lyme disease prevention), musculoskeletal sprains and strains, nausea and vomiting of pregnancy, pinworms and threadworms, urinary tract infections (uncomplicated), and vulvovaginal candidiasis (yeast infection).

Is the minor ailments service covered by OHIP?

The pharmacist assessment for minor ailments is covered under OHIP for eligible Ontario residents. You may have out-of-pocket costs for any prescribed medications, depending on your drug coverage. We'll walk you through your options.

How does the minor ailments assessment work at Longfields?

Simply walk in or call ahead. Our pharmacist will conduct a private, thorough assessment of your symptoms, health history, and current medications. Based on the assessment, we may prescribe appropriate treatment or recommend OTC options. The whole process typically takes 15–30 minutes.

What if my condition is more serious than a minor ailment?

Your safety is our top priority. If our pharmacist determines your condition requires physician assessment or emergency care, we'll direct you to the appropriate care pathway immediately. We will never attempt to treat conditions outside our scope of practice.

Can pharmacists treat UTIs in Ottawa?

Yes! Uncomplicated urinary tract infections (UTIs) in healthy, non-pregnant women are one of the conditions Ontario pharmacists can now treat. Our pharmacist will assess your symptoms, confirm the diagnosis is consistent with an uncomplicated UTI, and prescribe an appropriate antibiotic if indicated.

Can I get minor ailments treatment without a health card?

A health card is required for OHIP billing. However, if you don't have OHIP coverage, please speak with our pharmacist — we can discuss options and may be able to assist you in accessing care.