By Alexandra Mehl  Local Journalism Initiative Reporter On June 1 pharmacists across B.C. officially expanded their scope of practice, which now allows them to prescribe contraceptives and medications for 21 minor ailments. The aim is alleviating challenges accessing prescriptions and over-the-counter medications for residents of British Columbia. “When a person can go to the pharmacy and talk with their pharmacists, they have a new location where they can receive faster service,” said Cindy Preston, Director of Pharmacy at the First Nations Health Authority (FNHA). “It really is faster access, easier access,  and  earlier intervention.” Minor ailments include allergies, shingles, sprains and strains, nicotine dependence, cold sores, pink eye, uncomplicated urinary tract infections, and contraception, among others. According to the Ministry of Health, pharmacists can now assess patients’ symptoms, check their

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