In our daily lives, we often encounter minor health issues that can range from bothersome coughs and colds to pesky aches, rashes, allergies, and more. These common ailments, can disrupt our routines but are typically manageable with the right approach.

Many individuals opt for self-care, instead of seeking formal care from a physician. However, those that do can significantly impact the health care system. If just 16% of Canadians who rely on their physicians to treat mild symptoms, practiced self-care or consulted their pharmacist instead, an additional 500,000 Canadians could gain access to a family doctor.

Pharmacists are commonly known as the most accessible health care professionals, as you can easily see one without an appointment and receive advice and care for a minor ailment. When considering self-care or consulting a pharmacist for minor ailments, it's crucial to remember that these professionals are trained to provide guidance on over-the-counter remedies and offer advice on managing symptoms. Additionally, they can recognize when a situation requires further attention from a physician or specialist.

By utilizing the expertise of pharmacists for minor health issues, not only do we alleviate pressure on the healthcare system, but we also empower ourselves to make informed decisions about our well-beings. Embracing self-care practices and leveraging the accessibility of pharmacists can contribute to a more efficient and equitable healthcare landscape for everyone. All three of our food stores include pharmacies, with expert pharmacists who are ready to help you through minor ailments.

For more information on your local Otter Co-op pharmacy and FAQ’s click here.