Where to go when you feel unwell
Choosing the right level of care ensures you get treated quickly and keeps emergency resources available for those in critical need.
Home Care (Mild Symptoms)
Best for mild headaches, low-grade fevers, or common colds.
- Action: Rest, hydration, and over-the-counter relief.
- Prevention: Stay home if you are infectious to protect others.
1. Primary Care / Family Doctor
Your first point of contact for non-urgent, ongoing health concerns.
- Go here for: Persistent coughs, chronic condition management (diabetes, BP), and non-emergency infections.
2. Walk-In / Urgent Care Clinics
For medical needs that cannot wait for an appointment but are not life-threatening.
- Go here for: Minor broken bones, cuts requiring stitches, and sprains.
- Virtual Option: Use Urgent Care Ontario for nurse practitioner consultations from home.
3. Pharmacy (Minor Ailments)
Pharmacists can provide advice and, in many regions, prescribe for minor conditions.
- Go here for: Allergies, rashes, insect bites, or uncomplicated UTIs.
- Services: Prescription renewals and OTC medication guidance.
4. Health Advice Lines
If you are unsure where to go, speak with a registered nurse:
- Ontario: Call 811 or visit Health811 Online.
5. Emergency Department (Life-Threatening)
Call emergency services or go to the ER immediately for:
- Difficulty breathing or severe chest pain.
- Sudden confusion or slurred speech.
- Severe bleeding that will not stop.
- Severe mental health crisis or suicidal thoughts.

