Herpes Zoster (Shingles) Assessment and Prescribing by Pharmacists

Pharmacists can assess and if necessary, prescribe medication for herpes zoster (shingles) infections for eligible New Brunswick residents with no service fee, if they have symptoms that are characteristic of shingles including a rash.

The program covers the costs for those eligible to receive a maximum of one (1) assessment service per one-year period.

This program does NOT cover the cost of the dispensing fee(s) or the prescribed medication(s).

This program does NOT apply to assessing and administering vaccination for shingles.
 

To be eligible for this service, the patient must:

• Be a resident of New Brunswick and have a valid NB Medicare card;
• Be aged 12 and older; 
• Have symptoms of shingles that include a rash;
• Not reside in a nursing home.
   

• The pharmacist will provide the service in person.
• The pharmacist will assess the patient’s symptoms and obtain information on the patient’s medical history.  
• The pharmacist will develop a follow-up plan to monitor the patient’s progress.
• The pharmacist will notify the patient’s primary care provider (if one exists).
• If medication is prescribed, the prescription must be filled on the same day as the assessment. 
   

For more information about this service, please call your pharmacy.

Information about shingles assessment and prescribing by pharmacists can be found on the New Brunswick College of Pharmacists website.