Can pharmacists issue refills at the time of prescribing for a minor ailment?

Yes. The regulations and College guidelines do not specifically address or prohibit refills. However, it is important to remember that a minor ailment is usually a short-term condition where only minimal or short-term follow-up is required, and that if the prescribed treatment is not effective, further assessment and/or a referral to another health care professional may be warranted. 
 
The pharmacist should use their professional judgment to determine whether issuing refills at the time of prescribing is clinically appropriate for the indication and document their rationale. For example, the amount of topical cream the patient might need for their expected duration of treatment can be approximated, but not necessarily exactly calculated, and the pharmacist may decide prescribing an initial quantity with a refill is appropriate. The follow-up and monitoring plan should ensure that the intended timeframe of the patient’s therapy is adhered to. A pharmacist dispensing a refill for a minor ailment must evaluate the request in accordance with the Standards of Practice, taking into account the ongoing need considering the minor ailment and an assessment of the patient. 
 
If a patient chooses to have a lesser amount than the prescribed quantity dispensed, they should be advised if additional dispensing fees will be charged and the patient must authorize this request in writing (as per the Drug Interchangeability and Dispensing Fee Act [DIDFA]).