No family doctor in Ontario? How to get treated for common conditions

About 2.5 million Ontarians do not have a family doctor. For many everyday conditions, a pharmacist can assess and prescribe - online, fast, and free with your health card.

If you don't have a family doctor, a minor health problem can feel like a dead end: long walk-in waits, a crowded ER, or just hoping it passes. In Ontario there is another option for a lot of everyday conditions - a pharmacist.

What a pharmacist can treat

Ontario pharmacists can assess and, when appropriate, prescribe for a growing list of minor ailments - including urinary tract infections, pink eye, cold sores, hay fever, acid reflux, hemorrhoids and yeast infections. You do not need a referral or a family doctor.

How it works with Pharmly

You pick your condition, answer a short set of questions about your symptoms and history, and a licensed Ontario pharmacist reviews it and follows up - usually within 24 hours. If treatment is appropriate, they prescribe it and can send it to the pharmacy of your choice.

What it costs

The assessment is free with a valid Ontario health card, or a flat $30 without. Any prescribed medication is billed at its usual price.

When you still need a doctor or the ER

This is for minor ailments only. For anything severe, worsening quickly, or potentially an emergency, call 911 or go to the emergency department. Our questionnaire flags warning signs and points you to the right care.

Ready? See what we treat and start a free assessment.

Feel better, faster.

Start your free assessment and a licensed Ontario pharmacist will be in touch within 24 hours.

Start your free assessment*

*Free with a valid Ontario health card. Without one, the assessment is a flat $30.