The provincial government is considering expanding pharmacists’ scope of practice by adding to the list of minor ailments they can assess, but while pharmacists see the potential expansion as a way to ease challenges in the health-care system, doctors are raising concerns.
C-E-O of the Ontario Pharmacists Association Justin Bates says the minor ailments program has been going well so far and further expanding pharmacists’ scope can help avoid visits to family doctors and emergency rooms.
But Dr. Dominik Nowak, president of the Ontario Medical Association, says some minor ailments could be a sign of a more serious condition, and it takes a doctor to recognize that.
The province’s proposal on its regulatory registry is open for comment until October 20th.
CANADIAN PRESS