Can pharmacists charge a fee for providing minor ailment services if the patient doesn’t have a health card or is otherwise ineligible for reimbursement under Ministry of Health funding?

As with other services that are not covered by a publicly funded program and which are over and above the services included in the usual and customary dispensing fee, pharmacists may charge fees for professional pharmacy services in accordance with the College’s Fees for Professional Pharmacy Services Policy. For example, it should be clear to the patient what the fee is for, and the charge should be reasonable for the service provided.

Patients with private insurance or health benefits may inquire with their provider regarding possible reimbursement of any fees for minor ailment services, and pharmacists are encouraged to provide an invoice or receipt upon request for patients to use for this or other purposes.