question: I haven't been in Canada for long and don't have a family doctor yet. If I suddenly get sick, should I go to the emergency room first?
answer: Unless it is an emergency, the emergency room is not your first choice. Please try using the facilities in the order below based on the severity of your symptoms. The following information is for general reference only and is not medical advice.
1. For mild symptoms, consult a pharmacist first.
Pharmacists in Ontario can evaluate and prescribe for designated minor ailments. Typical examples include allergic rhinitis, conjunctivitis, dermatitis/eczema, simple urinary tract infections, cold sores, muscle sprains, menstrual cramps, and reflux esophagitis. Starting July 1, 2026, nine additional conditions have been added: corns/calluses, tension headaches, head lice, dandruff (seborrheic dermatitis), ringworm, warts (excluding facial and genital areas), nasal congestion, and dry eye syndrome. Please bring your Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) when visiting, and if symptoms are deemed serious, the pharmacist will recommend a medical consultation.
2. If you don't know where to go, ask Health811 first.
This is an Ontario service that allows you to consult with a registered nurse for free, 24 hours a day, by calling 811 (or via online chat). They listen to your symptoms and guide you on the next steps regarding whether you can rest at home or visit a clinic or hospital. Interpretation services are available in English, French, and other languages. However, Health811 does not replace diagnosis or prescription, and in emergencies, you must call 911 without delay.
3. If you need same-day treatment, please use the walk-in clinic.
There are walk-in clinics or urgent care centers in every neighborhood where you can receive treatment without an appointment. Checking operating hours and wait times by phone or online before visiting can help you avoid a wasted trip. After your consultation, please take photos of your prescription and instructions.
4. For the long term, sign up for Health Care Connect.
Health Care Connect in Ontario is a free program that connects you with family doctors or nurse practitioners who will accept new patients. You can register online or by calling 811, and you will need a valid health card and the address registered on the card. While a connection is not guaranteed and priority may be given to those with high health needs, registering itself is the first step.
To avoid panicking when you get sick, I recommend saving the location of a nearby walk-in clinic and the Health 811 number (811) on your mobile phone in advance.
Source: Ontario.ca 'Find a family doctor or nurse practitioner' · Health Ontario Executive Officer Notice (Minor Ailments, 2026-05-19) · Health811 Guide (southwesthealthline.ca)
https://www.ontario.ca/page/find-family-doctor-or-nurse-practitioner
https://www.ontario.ca/files/2026-05/moh-executive-officer-notice-minor-ailments-en-2026-05-19.pdf
https://www.southwesthealthline.ca/displayservice.aspx?id=14111
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