Proposed Regulatory Amendments to Ontario Regulation 202/94 (General) made under the Pharmacy Act, 1991
Regulation Number(s):
O. Reg 202/94 (General)
Instrument Type:
Regulation - LGIC
Bill or Act:
Pharmacy Act, 1991
Summary of Proposal:
The Ontario College of Pharmacists (OCP) is proposing to amend Ontario Regulation 202/94 (General) made under the Pharmacy Act, 1991 to authorize pharmacists to prescribe certain drugs for certain minor ailments.

A minor ailment is a health condition that can be reliably self-diagnosed and managed with self-care strategies and/or minimal treatment. This scope of practice change builds on the pharmacists current knowledge, skills, and judgement to recommend over-the-counter medications for minor ailments.

The OCP is proposing twelve minor ailments informed by their Minor Ailment Advisory Working Group:
1.Urinary tract infections (uncomplicated)
2.Dermatitis (atopic, eczema, allergic and contact)
3.Insect bites and urticaria (hives) including tick bites
4.Conjunctivitis (bacterial, allergic and viral)
5.Allergic rhinitis
6.Candidal stomatitis (oral thrush)
7.Herpes labialis (cold sores)
8.Haemorrhoids
9.Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
10.Dysmenorrhea
11.Musculoskeletal sprains and strains
12.Impetigo

Should you wish to provide feedback on this proposal, you may provide it by email to regulatoryprojects@ontario.ca.

This proposal is not final. The ministry may refine this proposal based on feedback received through this consultation, prior to bringing it forward to the Minister of Health for her review prior to seeking the approval of the Lieutenant Governor in Council.
Analysis of Regulatory Impact:
The proposed amendments will not result in compliance requirements and costs for pharmacists. The Ontario College of Pharmacists indicates that pharmacists have the necessary competencies to safely perform these activities, however; mandatory training will occur to ensure that pharmacists, are trained on the regulation changes, their obligations to communicate with primary care providers, and conflict of interest provisions in regulation.
Further Information:
Proposal Number:
22-HLTC020
Posting Date:
April 4, 2022
Comments Due Date:
April 14, 2022
Contact Address:
Health Workforce Regulatory Oversight Branch
Strategic Policy, Planning and French Language Services Division
Ministry of Health
Ministry of Long-Term Care
438 University Avenue, 10th Floor
Toronto, Ontario, M5G 2K8