2 Care Pharmacy

Frequently asked

Questions? We've got answers.

The things our neighbours in Cornell ask most — about appointments, drug plans, transfers, and delivery. Can't find what you need? Call us at 905-201-1497 and a real pharmacist will help.

General questions

Do I need an appointment to get a flu shot?
Walk-ins are welcome for flu shots during our open hours, and you can also book online to skip the wait. Most publicly funded flu vaccines are covered by OHIP for eligible Ontario residents — ask our pharmacist if you're unsure whether you qualify.
Do you accept all drug plans?
We bill OHIP/ODB and most private and employer insurance plans directly. Bring your benefits card and we'll confirm your coverage and any co-pay before we fill — just ask our pharmacist.
What is MedsCheck and who qualifies?
MedsCheck is a free, OHIP-covered one-on-one medication review with a pharmacist. It's generally available to Ontario residents with a valid health card who take multiple medications or live with certain conditions such as diabetes. See our MedsCheck page or ask our pharmacist whether you're eligible.
How do I transfer my prescription to 2 Care Pharmacy?
Just give us your name and your current pharmacy — or bring an old label or bottle — and we handle the rest: we contact them and move your file over. There's no transfer fee. You can start a transfer on our prescriptions & transfers page, or call us at 905-201-1497.
Do you deliver prescriptions?
Yes — we offer free prescription delivery across Cornell and surrounding Markham. Call or message us to arrange a delivery. See our home delivery page for the full details.
Can a pharmacist prescribe for minor ailments in Ontario?
Yes. Ontario pharmacists can assess and, where appropriate, prescribe for 19 common minor ailments — including uncomplicated UTIs, pink eye, and cold sores. A pharmacist assessment is required first, and it's free for OHIP-insured residents. See our minor ailments page or ask our pharmacist.
Where are you located and what are your hours?
We're at 3028 Bur Oak Avenue, Markham, ON L6B 0R1, in the Cornell neighbourhood. We're open Monday to Friday from 9:30, Saturday from 10:00, and closed Sunday. See our contact page for full hours and a map, or call 905-201-1497.
Do you make custom-compounded medications?
Yes — we prepare specialty medications on-site, including pediatric flavours, dose adjustments, and hard-to-find formulations. Ask our pharmacist what's possible for your prescription, or see our compounding page.

Questions by service

Tap a service for the full breakdown, or expand a question below.

Vaccinations & Immunizations

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Which vaccines does OHIP cover?
Flu, COVID-19, pneumonia (for eligible adults), shingles (Shingrix is publicly funded for adults 65–70), and several routine adult vaccines. Travel vaccines and a few specialty vaccines are typically paid out-of-pocket — we'll always tell you the cost upfront.
Do I need an appointment?
Walk-ins are welcome, but booking online means no wait. For flu season and back-to-school weeks especially, we strongly recommend booking.
Can I get more than one vaccine in the same visit?
Yes — for most adult vaccines, co-administration is safe and well-studied. Just tell us at booking and we'll plan the appointment accordingly.
What about kids?
We can administer most routine vaccines to children 2 years and older. For children under 2, we'll point you to the right setting — your family doctor or your local public health unit.
Do you do travel vaccines?
Yes — typhoid, Hepatitis A/B, Japanese encephalitis, rabies pre-exposure, and more. Book a travel consultation at least 4–6 weeks before your trip so your immunity has time to build.
I don't have a health card. Can you still vaccinate me?
Yes. We can still administer most vaccines and we'll quote you the cost beforehand. Bring any prior immunization records if you have them.

MedsCheck Medication Reviews

View medscheck medication reviews →
What's a MedsCheck, really?
It's a private 20–30 minute sit-down with your pharmacist to go through every medication you take — prescription, over-the-counter, supplements, and herbals. We look for interactions, duplications, missed doses, and ways to make your routine simpler.
Is it actually free?
Yes — the Ontario Ministry of Health pays for it if you take three or more chronic medications and have a valid OHIP card. There's no cost to you and no need to bring anything but your meds and your card.
Do I need a referral from my doctor?
No. You can book directly with us. After the review, with your permission, we'll send a summary to your family doctor so everyone's on the same page.
What should I bring?
All your medications in their original bottles, including anything you buy off the shelf (Tylenol, melatonin, vitamins, etc.). If you can't bring the bottles, a recent printed list from your previous pharmacy works.
Are there other types of MedsCheck?
Yes — MedsCheck for Diabetes, MedsCheck at Home (for patients who can't travel), and MedsCheck for residents of long-term care. Ask us which one fits your situation.
How often can I do this?
Most patients are eligible for one annual MedsCheck plus a follow-up if something significant changes — a new prescription, a hospital stay, or a new diagnosis.

Minor Ailments Prescribing

View minor ailments prescribing →
What's actually covered?
Under Ontario's expanded pharmacist scope (O. Reg. 256/24), pharmacists can assess and, if appropriate, prescribe for all 19 authorized minor ailments: acne (mild), allergic rhinitis (hayfever), aphthous ulcers (canker sores), candidal stomatitis (oral thrush), conjunctivitis (pink eye — bacterial, allergic, or viral), dermatitis (eczema, allergic, or contact), diaper dermatitis, dysmenorrhea (menstrual cramps), GERD (acid reflux), hemorrhoids, herpes labialis (cold sores), impetigo, insect bites and urticaria (hives), tick bites (Lyme disease post-exposure prophylaxis), musculoskeletal sprains and strains, nausea and vomiting of pregnancy, pinworms and threadworms, uncomplicated urinary tract infections, and vulvovaginal candidiasis (yeast infections). If we assess and decide a prescription isn't the right call, we'll tell you and point you to the right care.
Does being on the list guarantee I'll get a prescription?
No — and that's by design. Ontario regulations require a pharmacist to conduct a full assessment before prescribing. The pharmacist may determine that your condition is more complex than a minor ailment, that a physician or specialist is the right next step, or that an over-the-counter recommendation is actually better suited to your situation. Some patient circumstances — certain stages of pregnancy, pediatric patients, or conditions complicated by other health issues — may also fall outside pharmacist prescribing scope. If that's the case, we'll tell you exactly why and where to go next. We will never leave you without a clear plan.
Is it free?
For OHIP-insured Ontario residents, yes — the pharmacist assessment is covered at no cost to you. You'll only pay for any medication prescribed, and many are inexpensive or also covered under your drug benefits plan. Residents of long-term care homes are not eligible for the funded service fee. If you do not have a valid OHIP card, we will quote you the assessment fee upfront before we begin.
Do I need an appointment?
We strongly recommend it. A minor ailment assessment is a 15–20 minute private conversation — booking guarantees you a slot and avoids a wait.
What if my issue isn't on the list?
We'll still see you and either help you with what's appropriate at our scope, or refer you to a family doctor, walk-in clinic, or emergency department depending on urgency. We never want you to leave without a clear next step.
Will my doctor know about this?
Yes — and this is a regulatory requirement, not just a courtesy. Under Ontario pharmacy regulations, pharmacists are required to notify your primary care provider of any minor ailment prescription within a reasonable time. This is done within your circle of care under Ontario's Personal Health Information Protection Act (PHIPA) and does not require your separate consent. If you do not have a primary care provider, we keep the record in your pharmacy file. You may instruct us not to share under your PHIPA rights, but be aware that this conflicts with our professional obligation under the pharmacy regulation — we will explain your options if this situation arises.
What should I bring?
Your OHIP card, a list of medications you're currently taking (or just the bottles), and any details about your symptoms — when they started, what makes them better or worse.

Compounding Prescriptions

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What is compounding?
Compounding is when a pharmacist creates a medication from individual ingredients — a custom dose, an alternate form (cream, gel, troche, liquid), or a formulation that removes an allergen (lactose-free, gluten-free, dye-free). It's prepared from scratch, not pulled from a stocked bottle.
Do I need a prescription?
Yes — compounded medications require a prescription from a licensed prescriber (doctor, nurse practitioner, dentist, or veterinarian). Bring it in or have your prescriber send it to us and we'll take it from there.
How long does it take?
Turnaround depends on the preparation and ingredient availability. We'll give you a firm pickup time when we accept the prescription. Call us with the specifics and we'll let you know.
Is it covered by my insurance?
Many private drug plans cover compounded medications, though some require pre-authorization. We provide detailed receipts with ingredient breakdowns that most plans accept. OHIP does not typically cover compounding fees.
Can you handle veterinary compounded prescriptions?
Yes — bring your vet's prescription in and we'll help you sort out the details. Vet-specific prescription services from our pharmacy are coming soon as a dedicated offering.

Free Prescription Home Delivery & Blister Packs

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Is delivery really free?
Yes — free prescription delivery for patients in Cornell and surrounding Markham neighbourhoods. There's no minimum order and no membership fee. Call us if you're outside our usual zone — we'll see what we can do.
How quickly will my prescription arrive?
Call us and we'll arrange delivery for the earliest time we can manage — usually same-day or next-day depending on the queue and the route. We'll confirm the timing on the phone when you set it up, and we'll text or call when the driver leaves.
Is delivery only for prescriptions?
Yes — our delivery service is for prescriptions only, not for over-the-counter products or front-shop items. If you need a specific OTC item alongside your prescription, mention it when we arrange the delivery and we'll see if we can include it.
What's a blister pack?
A weekly tray where each dose is pre-sorted by day and time. Open Monday morning, take what's in the morning compartment, done. Especially helpful if you take multiple meds at multiple times or if a caregiver is helping manage your routine.
Do blister packs cost extra?
Blister packing is free for our patients. The medications themselves are billed the same way — your insurance or out-of-pocket cost is identical to picking up bottles.
Can you sync all my refills?
Yes — we'll align all your prescriptions to the same monthly refill date, so you get one delivery (or one trip in) instead of staggered ones. This is sometimes called "med sync" or "appointment-based model."
What if I need something urgently?
Call us. For urgent same-day needs we can usually have a driver out within a few hours, or you can pick up in-store and skip the wait.

Organic & Natural Wellness

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What's the 2 Care Organic Nature Balm?
Our in-house balm — formulated for dry skin, minor irritation, and lip care. Made with organic shea, calendula, beeswax, and vitamin E. Free of parabens, sulfates, synthetic fragrance, and petroleum. 15% off this month in-store.
Which brands do you stock?
We curate carefully — we don't stock every line on the market, only ones we'd use ourselves. Ask us when you visit and we'll show you what we have for your skin type or concern.
Are the supplements pharmacist-vetted?
Yes. Every supplement on our shelf has been reviewed for ingredient quality, manufacturer reputation, and interaction profile. If you're on prescription medications, talk to us before adding a new supplement — some combinations don't play well.
Do you do special orders?
If we don't stock something you want, ask. We can often bring it in within a few days if it's available from our wholesalers.
Do you have allergen-conscious options?
Yes — we carry fragrance-free, dye-free, and gluten-free options across categories. Tell us what you're avoiding and we'll point you to options that work.
Can I return something if it doesn't work?
Unopened products can be returned within 30 days with a receipt. Health regulations prevent us from accepting returns on opened cosmetics or supplements — so for first-time tries, ask us about samples or smaller sizes.

Easy & Fast Prescription Transfers

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How do I transfer a prescription?
Three options — easiest is to bring us your prescription bottle (the label has everything we need). Or call us and tell us the name of your current pharmacy. Or fill in our online form. We handle the entire transfer with your previous pharmacy — you don't need to call them.
Does the transfer cost anything?
Nothing. Some chains charge a transfer fee. We don't. Bring your bottle, give us the name, done.
Will my insurance still work?
Yes. Your drug plan follows you, not the pharmacy. We'll process your benefits the same way your previous pharmacy did. Most plans we can submit directly so you only pay your copay (if any).
How long does a transfer take?
Usually 1–2 hours during business hours. If you need the medication today, we can often have the transfer completed by the time you're ready to pick up.
Can you transfer prescriptions that are out of refills?
If the prescription is expired or has no refills left, we'll still transfer the file and contact your prescriber to get a new one authorized. We do this all the time.
Do you fill prescriptions same-day?
Yes — almost every prescription is filled same-day. If we have to special-order something, we'll tell you upfront and give you a firm pickup time.
Can you fill prescriptions written in another province?
Yes, prescriptions written by a licensed prescriber anywhere in Canada are valid in Ontario. Some controlled substances have additional rules — we'll walk you through anything specific.

Specialized Compression Socks

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Do I need a prescription?
For medical-grade compression (typically 20–30 mmHg and up), yes — a prescription is needed for both fitting accuracy and insurance reimbursement. We can also stock lighter compression (8–15 mmHg, 15–20 mmHg) for general use without a prescription.
Why does the fitting matter?
Compression that's too tight or the wrong length doesn't work — and can be uncomfortable enough that you'll stop wearing it. A proper fitting measures ankle and calf circumference and matches you to the right size, length, and style.
Will my insurance cover them?
Many private drug and extended health plans cover compression stockings, often once or twice per year per limb. We'll provide the documentation your plan needs and check coverage in advance if you give us your insurance details.
What brands do you carry?
We're a Sigvaris partner — a Swiss compression-wear maker that's been in the medical compression business since 1864. We have their full catalogue available across compression strengths, models, and fabrics, and we can order anything we don't have in stock. At the fitting we'll recommend based on your activity level, skin sensitivity, and what your insurance covers.
How long does a fitting take?
About 20 minutes. Best done in the morning before any swelling has set in — that's when measurements are most accurate.
How long do they last?
Properly cared for, medical-grade compression stockings last 4–6 months of daily wear before they lose enough elasticity to be replaced. Most plans cover replacement on that cycle.
How do I wash and care for them?
Hand wash or gentle machine wash in cold water, air dry. No fabric softener (it breaks down the elastic). We'll send you home with a printed care card.

Diabetes Supplies & Coaching

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What's a MedsCheck for Diabetes?
It's a free, OHIP-covered diabetes-specific medication and self-management review. We go through your meds, your meter readings, your lifestyle, and your goals — and we send a summary to your family doctor or endocrinologist. Roughly 30 minutes, by appointment.
Are my test strips covered?
If you're on the Ontario Drug Benefit (ODB), test strips are covered with limits based on your medication regimen. Private plans usually cover strips too. Sensors for continuous glucose monitors (Dexcom, Freestyle Libre) may be covered depending on your plan and clinical criteria — ask us and we'll check.
Which meters and CGMs do you carry?
All the major meters (Accu-Chek, Contour, OneTouch, Freestyle) and CGM systems (Freestyle Libre, Dexcom G6/G7). We can match strips to your existing meter or recommend a new one if your current setup isn't working for you.
Can you help me with my insulin?
Yes — we stock all the common insulins, can advise on pen versus vial, storage, and travel. For complex insulin regimens we'll coordinate closely with your prescriber and offer a longer MedsCheck.
I'm newly diagnosed. Where do I start?
Book a 30-minute diabetes consult. We'll go through what each medication is doing, how to use your meter, when to test, what your numbers should look like, and what to do when they're off. Bring your family member or caregiver if it helps.
Do you offer A1C testing in the pharmacy?
We don't run A1C testing in-store. Your doctor's office or LifeLabs is the right place for that. We do help you understand your A1C results and what they mean for your medication plan.

Still have a question?

Phone is fastest — 905-201-1497 reaches a real pharmacist, not a phone tree. Or send us a note and we'll reply within one business day.