What Is a MedsCheck and Do You Qualify? A Waterloo Pharmacist Explains

If you take three or more prescription medications and live in Ontario, there's a free service available to you that most people don't know about — and it could make a real difference in how safely and effectively you manage your health. It's called a MedsCheck, and at The Boardwalk Pharmacy in Waterloo, we offer it by appointment at no cost to eligible patients.

What Exactly Is a MedsCheck?

A MedsCheck is a private, one-on-one consultation between you and a licensed pharmacist. During this session, your pharmacist reviews all of your medications — prescription drugs, over-the-counter products, vitamins, and supplements — to make sure they're working together safely and effectively for you.

The program is funded by the Ontario government and offered through participating pharmacies at no cost to eligible patients.

What Happens During a MedsCheck?

When you come in for your MedsCheck at The Boardwalk Pharmacy, your pharmacist will:

• Review every medication you take — including vitamins and supplements
• Check for potential drug interactions you may not be aware of
• Confirm you're taking each medication at the right dose, at the right time
• Identify any medications that may be duplicating each other's effects
• Answer your questions about side effects, storage, and alternatives
• Give you a printed personal medication list to keep and share with your doctor

The whole appointment typically takes 20 to 30 minutes. We set aside a private consultation space so there are no interruptions.

Who Qualifies for a MedsCheck in Ontario?

You may be eligible for a MedsCheck if you:

• Take 3 or more prescription medications for ongoing conditions
• Were recently discharged from hospital (MedsCheck in the Community)
• Have been diagnosed with diabetes (MedsCheck for Diabetes is a dedicated program)
• Are managing medications for a family member in their home (MedsCheck at Home)

Is MedsCheck Really Free?

Yes. The MedsCheck program is funded by the Ontario Drug Benefit (ODB) program, which means there is no cost to you for an annual MedsCheck at a participating pharmacy like ours.

How to Book Your MedsCheck in Waterloo

Call us at (519) 578-3000 or visit us at 430 The Boardwalk, Suite 102, Waterloo.

Monday – Thursday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM | Friday & Saturday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Learn more about our MedsCheck services | All our services