Saskatchewan has expanded strep throat and ear infection services to over 100 pharmacies across the province, according to a provincial government announcement.
Pharmacists at select locations have been trained to assess symptoms, perform rapid testing for strep throat and determine appropriate treatment options, including prescribing medication.
The expansion adds 55 new locations to the program, which launched as a pilot project in January 2025. All eligible pharmacies that applied through the provincial intake in July have been accepted.
By January 2027, strep throat and ear services will be available in 34 communities. Seventy-one pharmacies will offer both strep throat and ear services, with 31 offering ear services only.
Program supports Patients First Plan
“This expansion provides more timely access to assessment and treatment, aligning with our goals under the Patients First Plan,” Rural and Remote Health Minister Lori Carr said in a statement.
The program is part of broader efforts to expand services available at Saskatchewan pharmacies, increasing frontline access to care.
“The strong response to the Strep Throat and Ear Infection Program is encouraging,” Carr said. “Through this expansion, pharmacists will play a significant role in enhancing access to quality care for patients as close to home as possible.”
Pilot delivered over 11,000 services
The pilot project that launched in January 2025 has delivered over 11,000 services across Saskatchewan, officials say.
The provincial government says this demonstrates the value of expanding pharmacists’ roles and ensures accessible frontline care.
Training for new applicants occurred in August for the September launch and will continue in December for pharmacists joining in January 2027. Ongoing training will continue to support future expansion of the program.
Pharmacists in new communities were prioritized for September training.
“This program is a great example of what we can achieve when pharmacists, the health system and regulatory partners work together toward a shared goal,” Saskatchewan College of Pharmacy Professionals President Lindsay Mildenberger said.
“By expanding access to assessment and treatment through community pharmacies, we are strengthening the role of pharmacists in patient care and helping Saskatchewan patients access care when and where they need it.”
Funding for the strep throat and ear infection services program was incorporated into the 2026-2029 Pharmacy Proprietor Agreement as part of approved scope optimization investments.
A list of participating pharmacies and communities is available at the Saskatchewan College of Pharmacy Professionals website.
