Assessed and prescribed for by a pharmacist
UTI treatment, same day
A urinary tract infection does not wait politely for an appointment. In Alberta a pharmacist can assess you and prescribe treatment for an uncomplicated UTI, usually in one visit.
The symptoms are hard to ignore and easy to recognise: burning when you urinate, needing to go constantly, going and producing almost nothing, cloudy or strong-smelling urine, an ache low in the abdomen.
Most UTIs in otherwise healthy adults are uncomplicated, and uncomplicated is the category a pharmacist can treat. You do not need a doctor's appointment first.
How it goes
Come in, or phone first
Phoning means the pharmacist can set time aside. Either way you are seen the same day.
A private assessment
Your symptoms, how long they have been going on, your history, whether this has happened before, and what else you take.
Treatment, if it is appropriate
For an uncomplicated UTI that usually means a short course of antibiotics, and advice on managing the symptoms while they work.
We follow up
If symptoms have not improved in the expected time, come back. That is information, and it changes what should happen next.
When a pharmacist is not the right first stop
Some presentations need a physician the same day. Being told this quickly is worth the visit on its own. Come in or go to a clinic if you have:
Fever, chills, or back or flank pain
This can mean the infection has reached the kidneys, which is treated differently and more urgently.
Blood you can see in your urine
Needs assessment beyond a pharmacist's scope.
Symptoms in pregnancy
UTIs in pregnancy are managed differently and should be seen by a physician.
Repeated infections
Several UTIs in a year is a pattern rather than a series of separate events, and the pattern is worth investigating.
Symptoms in a man
Less common and more likely to have an underlying cause that needs looking into.
Common questions
Can a pharmacist in Calgary prescribe antibiotics for a UTI?
Yes. Alberta pharmacists can assess and prescribe for uncomplicated urinary tract infections. You do not need to see a doctor or go to a walk-in clinic first.
How quickly can I be seen?
The same day. Phone 403-930-5806 first if you can so the pharmacist can set aside time for the assessment.
Do I need to give a urine sample?
Not always. For a straightforward case in an otherwise healthy adult the assessment is based on your symptoms and history. The pharmacist will tell you if testing is needed.
How long until I feel better?
Symptoms usually start easing within a day or two of starting treatment. Finish the full course anyway, and come back if things have not improved as expected.
Is the assessment covered by Alberta Health?
In Alberta the pharmacist's assessment for a minor ailment is funded by Alberta Health for people with valid Alberta Health Care coverage. You may still pay for the medication itself, depending on your drug plan. Ask us before you start and we will tell you what it will cost.