Minor Ailment Assessment and Contraceptive Services
Updated June 29-2023 (Government of BC)
B.C. residents can book an appointment to see a pharmacist for 21 minor ailments and prescription contraceptives.
Book an appointment to see a pharmacist
This service is free to every B.C. resident with a Personal Health Number (found on your BC Services Card), when provided in person, in a pharmacy.
Two simple steps before booking
1. Use the self-assessment checklist to check your symptom(s).
2. If your symptoms match one of the minor ailments, or if you want to discuss contraception, use the provincial online booking system to make an appointment.
You can also visit a pharmacy to access this service without making an appointment. Services offered and pharmacist availability may vary.
3. At the pharmacy, the pharmacist will assess your symptoms or discuss your contraception needs with you. They will explain the best options for your care. You may get a prescription for medication, advice for self-care or recommendation to see another health care professional for further assessment.
Minor ailments
You can see a pharmacist to get assessed and treated for the following conditions:
- Allergies (allergic rhinitis)
- Cold sores
- Fungal infections
- Heartburn (acid reflux)
- Hemorrhoids
- Headaches
- Impetigo
- Indigestion (upset stomach)
- Itching, including from bug bites
- Menstrual pain
- Mild acne
- Nicotine dependence
- Oral fungal infections (thrush)
- Oral ulcers (canker sores)
- Pink eye (conjunctivitis)
- Shingles
- Sprains and strains
- Skin rash (dermatitis)
- Threadworms or pinworms
- Uncomplicated urinary tract infection
- Vaginal candidiasis (yeast infection)
Contraception
Pharmacists can prescribe and provide many types of contraception, including the following, which are free in B.C.:
- The pill
- Copper intrauterine devices (IUDs)*
- Hormonal IUDs*
- An implant*
- An injection (pharmacist can also administer)
- Morning-after pill (no prescription or appointment needed)
*While the pharmacist can provide IUDs and implants, you will need to arrange a visit with a doctor or clinic for insertion.
Self-assessment checklist
Itching, including from bug bites
Oral fungal infection (thrush)
Uncomplicated urinary tract infection
Vaginal candidiasis (yeast infection)
I have questions
Phone the call centre if you have questions about this service. Phone agents cannot answer questions about specific medical conditions or treatment options.
Call: 1-833-882-0022Monday to Friday, 8:00 am – 4:30 pm. Translators are available.
Telephone for the Deaf: Dial 711
Video Relay Services (VRS) sign language interpretation is free for people who are deaf, hard of hearing or speech impaired.
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