Since 2023, Ontario pharmacists can assess and prescribe treatment for 19 common conditions — no doctor’s appointment needed. The assessment is free with your Ontario health card, and most prescriptions can be filled on the spot in the same visit. Walk into Mattawa Pharmacy at 328 Main Street or call (705) 744-5981.

Pharmacist Prescribing

What Our Pharmacists Can Treat

Our pharmacists can assess and, when appropriate, prescribe treatment for all 19 minor ailments covered under the Ontario program:

  • Pink eye (conjunctivitis)
  • Urinary tract infections (uncomplicated)
  • Seasonal allergies
  • Acid reflux (GERD)
  • Cold sores
  • Muscle & joint sprains and strains
  • Insect bites & hives
  • Tick bites (Lyme disease prevention)
  • Eczema & dermatitis
  • Diaper rash
  • Menstrual cramps
  • Hemorrhoids
  • Impetigo
  • Oral thrush
  • Canker sores
  • Mild acne
  • Nausea & vomiting in pregnancy
  • Pinworms & threadworms
  • Yeast infections
Pink Eye

A pharmacist can assess your eye and prescribe antibiotic drops for bacterial pink eye when appropriate — no clinic wait.

UTI

For uncomplicated bladder infections in women, a pharmacist can assess symptoms and prescribe antibiotics when appropriate — all in one visit.

Simple & Quick

How It Works

1

Walk In or Call Ahead

No appointment needed — drop by 328 Main Street, or call ahead to plan your visit.

2

Private Assessment

Sit down with the pharmacist for a private assessment — about 15–20 minutes.

3

Prescribed & Filled

If treatment is appropriate, the prescription is written and filled on the spot.

4

Referred When Needed

If symptoms point to something beyond a minor ailment, the pharmacist refers you to the right care.

No Surprise Fees

What It Costs

The assessment is free with a valid Ontario health card — the province covers it. You pay only for the medication if one is prescribed, covered by most drug plans and ODB as usual.

Know the Limits

When to See a Doctor Instead

Some symptoms need a doctor’s care rather than a pharmacist assessment, including:

  • Fever or chills
  • Severe pain
  • Vision changes or eye pain
  • Blood in urine
  • Symptoms in infants
  • Conditions that keep coming back

The pharmacist screens for these during the assessment and will refer you to the right care.

Common Questions

Minor Ailment FAQs

Do I need an appointment?

No — walk-ins are welcome during business hours. Calling ahead at (705) 744-5981 can shorten your wait.

Is it really free?

Yes — with a valid Ontario health card the assessment is covered by the province. You pay only for the medication if one is prescribed.

Can the pharmacist prescribe antibiotics?

Yes, for eligible conditions — for example, antibiotic eye drops for bacterial pink eye or antibiotics for an uncomplicated UTI — when the assessment supports it.

What should I bring?

Your Ontario health card, a list of your current medications, and your allergy information.

Feeling Under the Weather?

Call (705) 744-5981 or visit us at 328 Main Street, Mattawa — our pharmacists are ready to help, no appointment needed.

Call (705) 744-5981