A population-based cross-sectional study
Background
To provide accessible, cost-effective care for common conditions and reduce healthcare system strain, the government of Ontario, Canada, introduced pharmacist prescribing for minor ailments in January 2023.
Objective
This study aims to describe the initial utilization of Ontario’s newly introduced pharmacist-led minor ailment services for skin conditions and compare patients using the services with the general population of Ontario.
Methods
We conducted a population-based cross-sectional study using Ontario’s administrative health data, linked using unique encoded identifiers and analyzed at ICES. We determined the characteristics of patients who received pharmacy services for any of the five skin-related minor ailments introduced in January 2023: (i) dermatitis; (ii) herpes labialis (cold sores); (iii) impetigo; (iv) insect bites and urticaria (hives); and (v) tick bites (postexposure prophylaxis to prevent Lyme disease).
Results
In 2023, 547,673 Ontarians used pharmacist-led minor ailment services; 21% (112,718) were for skin-related conditions, mostly herpes labialis (41%) and dermatitis (35%). Of these, 85% received a prescription. Adults aged 35–64 (47%) and women (62%) were the main users, with urban residents making up 70%. Most were attached to primary care (90%), had higher healthcare use (25% vs. 19%), and greater socioeconomic status (45% vs. 41%) than the general population. Fewer came from highly racialized or newcomer neighbourhoods (46% vs. 51%).
Conclusion
Ontario’s first year of skin-related minor ailments services shows strong unmet demand in primary care. However, access disparities suggest a need for targeted improvements. Ongoing monitoring will be key to evaluating long-term impacts, especially as the program expands.
Citation
Iskandar RJ, Tadrous M, Nguyen P, Dolovich L, Green M, Frymire E, & Drucker AM. (2025). Characteristics of patients seeking skin-related minor ailment pharmacy services in Ontario, Canada: A population-based cross-sectional study. British Journal of Dermatology, 193(1), 173–175.
Access the full article:
Date Released: April 2, 2025