The Government of Saskatchewan is enabling pharmacists in the province to test for strep throat and ear infections.

In a news release the government says the new training is the first of its kind in Canada which will allow pharmacists to perform rapid testing for strep throat where a lab sample is collected and tested on site, with results in ten minutes. Ear infections require a physical assessment only. The pharmacist can then prescribe and dispense medication to treat the ailment if its needed.

Pharmacists will be required to take training and meet competency requirements as established by the Saskatchewan College of Pharmacy Professionals and follow mandatory guidelines.

Saskatchewan College of Pharmacy Professionals Registrar Jeana Wendel said these new professional services are enabled through updated bylaws and will be for select pharmacists who choose to complete additional training and education.

Ten pharmacies will be selected to take part in a pilot project to conduct rapid testing for strep throat and assessments for ear infections, while another 50 sites will be chosen to offer ear infection assessments only.