Ask a pharmacist for an assessment
As of June 1, 2023, community pharmacists across British Columbia were enabled to prescribe for contraception and many minor ailments such as indigestion, cold sores, mild acne, and uncomplicated urinary tract infections.
This expanded access means British Columbians can visit a local pharmacy to see their pharmacist for an assessment of any one of 21 minor ailments or contraception services (MACS). Upon completing the assessment, if appropriate, pharmacists can write a prescription on location for the needed medications.
How to book an appointment
Many pharmacies also offer walk-in availability for minor ailments.
To book an appointment, the provincial government has set up an online booking tool that will identify the nearest available pharmacies around you. You will need to have your Personal Health Number to make an appointment.
List of Minor Ailments
| Disease, Disorder or Condition | Drug Category |
|---|---|
| Acne | Topical drugs |
| Allergic rhinitis |
|
|
Conjunctivitis (allergic, bacterial or viral) |
Ophthalmic drugs |
|
Dermatitis (allergic, atopic, contact, diaper or seborrheic) |
Topical drugs |
| Dysmenorrhea | Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs |
| Dyspepsia | Gastric acid reducing drugs |
|
Fungal infections (Onychomycosis, Tinea corporis infection, Tinea cruris infection or Tinea pedis infection) |
Topical drugs |
| Gastroesophageal reflux disease | Gastric acid reducing drugs |
| Headache | Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs |
| Hemorrhoids | Topical drugs |
|
Herpes labialis |
|
| Impetigo | Topical drugs |
| Oral Ulcers (canker sores, aphthous ulcers) | Topical drugs |
| Oropharyngeal candidiasis | Antifungal drugs |
| Musculoskeletal pain | Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs |
| Shingles | Antiviral drugs |
| Nicotine dependence | Nicotine cessation drugs |
| Threadworms or pinworms | Anthelmintic drugs |
| Uncomplicated urinary tract infection | Antibiotic drugs |
| Urticaria, including insect bites |
|
| Vaginal candidiasis | Antifungal drugs |