N.L. pharmacists allowed to prescribe for, treat minor ailments
Pharmacists in Newfoundland and Labrador now have the ability to offer prescriptions and treatment for minor ailments that would normally see patients waiting at the doctor's office.
Health Minister Steve Kent, along with the Newfoundland and Labrador Pharmacy Board and the Pharmacists' Association of Newfoundland and Labrador, said the new regulations will expand pharmacists' scope of practice during a news conference Tuesday,
From Pinworms to dandruff, patients can visit the local pharmacy instead of the doctor for a long list of minor health issues.
Richard Coombs, past president of the Pharmacists' Association, said pharmacists are looking forward to a closer working relationship with physicians, and there are more changes to come.
"It's about patient choice and access because access has been a real problem, especially in rural areas," said Coombs.
Before treating minor health issues, pharmacists will have to be authorized with the provincial pharmacy board.
"You don't need to go to the emergency room or your doctor anymore to treat acne or heart burn or a minor headache or joint pain," Kent said.
"Pharmacists will now be able to prescribe if they choose to do so."
In addition, pharmacists will be able to substitute a prescribed medication with an equivalent drug.
- Acne (mild)
- Allergic Rhinitis
- Atopic Dermatitis (mild-moderate)
- Callouses and Corns
- Cold Sore
- Contact Dermatitis
- Dandruff
- Diarrhea (Non-Infectious)
- Dysmenorrhea
- Dyspepsia
- Emergency Contraception
- Fungal Infections of the Skin
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
- Headache (mild)
- Hemorrhoids
- Impetigo
- Joint Pain (mild)
- Muscle Pain (mild)
- Nausea
- Oral Fungal Infection
- Oral Ulceration
- Pinworms
- Sleep Disorders (mild)
