Ear/Nose/Throat Assessment
Pharmacists can assess and prescribe for Strep Throat, sinusitis (sinus infections), and ear infections.
Strep Throat
A pharmacist can do an assessment to determine if your sore throat is caused by a virus or a bacterial infection such as strep throat. Symptoms of strep throat may include all or some of the following:
- Painful Swallowing
- Red and swollen tonsils
- White patches or streaks and fever
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The pharmacist will ask questions about medical history, signs and symptoms that the patient is experiencing and perform a head, neck and throat exam. If the patient has signs of strep throat confirmed by the exam, the pharmacist will also take a swab of the back of the throat and perform a rapid molecular test in the pharmacy which will take approximately 10 minutes.  If positive, the pharmacist may prescribe antibiotics to prevent complications of Group A Strep .
If patient does not qualify for a rapid molecular test or if the results are negative, patients will be given recommendations on pain management, signs/symptoms to monitor, follow up details or instructions on when to see another health care provider if necessary.
Sinusitis (Sinus Infection)
This service is available for individuals aged 3 and up. A pharmacist can assess your sinus symptoms and may provide you with over-the-counter suggestions or an antibiotic if needed. If you suspect a sinus infection, see a pharmacist for assessment and treatment. However, those experiencing ocular symptoms—such as eye weakness or paralysis, drooping eyelids, impaired or double vision, or bulging eyes—should seek care immediately at the emergency room. Symptoms of a sinus infection may include:
- Persistent facial pain/pressure/fullness
- Nasal obstruction and/or nasal discharge
- Severe symptoms with a fever
Ear Infection
A pharmacist can assess your symptoms, examine your ears, and provide you with over-the-counter suggestions or an antibiotic if needed. This service is available for individuals aged 3 and up who have not had previous ear tubes or surgeries. Symptoms may include:
- Sore external ear
- Tenderness upon touching the ear
- Fever
- Ear discharge
- Itching or fullness of the ear
