Pharmacists in Alberta can assess and prescribe for 30 common conditions. You don’t need an appointment — walk into any participating pharmacy, meet privately with the pharmacist, and get treated on the spot.
Alberta pharmacists with Additional Prescribing Authorization (APA) can prescribe any Schedule 1 drug — the broadest scope in Canada.
Right now in Alberta, ER wait times range from 30m to 8h 43m, averaging 3h 51m. Many of these waits are for conditions your pharmacist can handle in minutes.
A pharmacy assessment fee may apply. Some services funded through Alberta's Compensation Plan for Pharmacy Services.
Medication costs are separate and may be covered by your provincial drug plan or private insurance.
How It Works
1
Visit your pharmacy
Walk in to any participating pharmacy. No appointment needed.
2
Private assessment
Meet with the pharmacist in a private counselling room. They’ll ask about your symptoms, medical history, and current medications.
3
Get treated
The pharmacist prescribes medication if appropriate, which can be filled at any pharmacy. Or they may recommend an over-the-counter treatment.
4
Follow-up
The pharmacist may follow up to check on your progress. If your primary care provider is on file, they’ll be notified of the assessment.
If Your Medication Is Hard to Find
Drug shortages hit Alberta pharmacies just like everywhere else in Canada: hundreds of medications are in short supply at any given time, and pharmacists routinely substitute brands or adjust prescriptions because of it. If a prescription has been hard to fill, you can look up its status on rxstat.ca, a Canadian drug shortage tracker based on the shortage reports manufacturers file with Health Canada.
When to Go to the ER Instead
Your pharmacist cannot treat emergency conditions. Call 911 or go to the nearest ER for:
Chest painDifficulty breathingSevere bleedingStroke symptomsSerious injuries or fracturesSevere allergic reactionsLoss of consciousnessHigh fever with stiff neck
Not sure? Call 811 — a registered nurse can help you decide. Free, confidential, 24/7.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a pharmacist prescribe antibiotics in Alberta?
Yes. Pharmacists in Alberta can prescribe antibiotics for certain conditions, most commonly uncomplicated urinary tract infections (UTIs). The pharmacist will assess your symptoms and determine if antibiotics are appropriate.
Do I need to pay to see a pharmacist in Alberta?
A pharmacy assessment fee may apply. Some services funded through Alberta's Compensation Plan for Pharmacy Services.
Can a pharmacist treat my child in Alberta?
Pharmacists can assess and prescribe for patients of all ages. For children who cannot consent or understand the treatment, a parent or guardian must be present. Some conditions may have age restrictions — the pharmacist will advise you.
What if the pharmacist can't treat my condition?
If your condition falls outside the pharmacist's scope, they will refer you to the appropriate care — your family doctor, a walk-in clinic, or the emergency department. You can also call 811 for guidance.
Can I get a prescription filled at a different pharmacy?
Yes. If your pharmacist prescribes a medication, you can have it filled at any pharmacy of your choice, just like a doctor's prescription.