- The new activities become possible on December 9, 2026, but they will be offered gradually.
- The pharmacist decides based on their judgment, your situation and the pharmacy’s resources.
- Call before you go, and ask whether fees apply.
What changes for you?
Depending on their assessment, the pharmacist will be able to handle more situations without you first having to see another professional:
- assess a common health problem and prescribe treatment if the criteria are met;
- prescribe or adjust treatment for a chronic disease already diagnosed, if your condition is at low risk of short-term deterioration;
- extend an expired prescription if they judge that treatment should not be interrupted;
- prescribe to prevent certain diseases or conditions, and vaccinate at any age if they have the required training;
- take a throat or nasal sample with no prescription, for example for a rapid strep test.
Why won’t every service be offered everywhere?
December 9 is an effective date, not a promise of service. The Ordre des pharmaciens states that being able to carry out an activity does not mean it will be done in every situation, and the Ministry speaks of services becoming available gradually. Each pharmacy phases them in according to its team’s competence, its space and its ability to ensure follow-up.
So it is normal for one pharmacy to offer a service while another does not yet. Some services may also require an appointment.
Does the pharmacist replace your physician?
No. The pharmacist may refer you to another professional, and sometimes that will be the best decision for you. When they extend a prescription, they recommend that you book an appointment with the professional responsible for your follow-up. They cannot prescribe designated substances (narcotics, controlled drugs, targeted substances) under this framework.
How many more services?
According to an estimate from the Health Minister’s office dating from December 2025, reported by La Presse, 360,000 additional pharmaceutical services could be offered in the first year. This is an estimate, not a guarantee of access in your area.
How to prepare
- Call your pharmacy before you go.
- Choose the pharmacy that already has your file when you can.
- Renew your medications ahead of time, without waiting until the last moment.
- Ask whether fees apply to the service you want.
For details, see our page for patients and families.
Sources: Québec Ministry of Health, announcement of August 20, 2026 (in French) · OPQ, December 9: a gradual change, October 5, 2026 (in French) · La Presse Canadienne, August 20, 2026 (in French) · Noovo Info, August 20, 2026 (in French) · AQPP, annual congress, November 5, 2026 (in French)
General information based on the publications cited. This text does not replace professional or legal advice, or the Ordre’s guides.