The Ontario government is consulting on major changes to healthcare scope of practice, which could allow more professionals to take on expanded roles in treating patients.
Proposals include allowing psychologists with advanced training to prescribe certain medications, such as antidepressants, and order lab tests like bloodwork to support mental health care.
Pharmacists could be permitted to conduct strep throat tests and assess and prescribe treatments for 14 additional minor ailments.
Other professions are also being considered for expanded authority, including denturists, chiropodists, dental hygienists, speech-language pathologists, physiotherapists, chiropractors, and optometrists.
These changes could give patients faster access to services like X-rays, MRIs, diagnostic ultrasounds, and even some in-office procedures.
Health Minister Sylvia Jones says the move would ease pressure on doctors and hospitals, ensuring that emergency rooms and physician appointments are available for those with more complex needs.
The Ontario Medical Association (OMA), however, has voiced concern, warning that non-physicians prescribing powerful drugs or performing complex procedures could put patients at risk.
Consultations are ongoing as the province considers how best to implement the scope expansions.