Millions of Canadians don't have a family doctor. Walk-ins and ERs are packed. Access to primary care can be almost impossible for many of us. In an attempt to ease some of that burden on the system, a handful of provinces have allowed pharmacists to diagnose and prescribe medications for so-called "minor ailments". And in some provinces the list of those ailments is growing.
For those without access to care, it can be a huge help. But it also raises questions about everything from training and privacy to conflicts of interest and misdiagnoses. So, is the potential cost worth the benefit of easing some of the strain on the system? And if not, what else are we supposed to do?
GUEST: Natalie Mehra, Executive Director of the Ontario Health Coalition
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