Minor ailments andcontraception.
See your pharmacist for an assessment of a minor ailment or contraception, and get a prescription on location if appropriate.
Care for common conditions, close to home.
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.
The 21 minor ailments.
The conditions a pharmacist can assess, and the types of medication they may prescribe for each. Contraception is also included in the service.
| Disease, disorder or condition | Drug category |
|---|---|
| Acne |
|
| Allergic rhinitis |
|
| Conjunctivitis(allergic, bacterial or viral) |
|
| Dermatitis(allergic, atopic, contact, diaper or seborrheic) |
|
| Dysmenorrhea |
|
| Dyspepsia |
|
| Fungal infections(Onychomycosis, Tinea corporis infection, Tinea cruris infection or Tinea pedis infection) |
|
| Gastroesophageal reflux disease |
|
| Headache |
|
| Hemorrhoids |
|
| Herpes labialis |
|
| Impetigo |
|
| Oral ulcers(canker sores, aphthous ulcers) |
|
| Oropharyngeal candidiasis |
|
| Musculoskeletal pain |
|
| Shingles |
|
| Nicotine dependence |
|
| Threadworms or pinworms |
|
| Uncomplicated urinary tract infection |
|
| Urticaria, including insect bites |
|
| Vaginal candidiasis |
|
Source: BC Pharmacy Association, Minor Ailments and Contraception Services (opens in a new tab). Your pharmacist will decide whether a prescription is appropriate after your assessment.
Talk to our pharmacist, one on one.
Call to book your consultation. Please have your Personal Health Number ready.