Walk-in, family doctor or ER?
A quick guide to getting the right care in Richmond Hill, at the right time.
When you’re sick or hurt, it isn’t always obvious where to go. Choosing the right place gets you the right care faster and keeps emergency departments free for the people who need them most.
Emergency? Don’t wait. Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department. The closest one to our clinic is at Mackenzie Richmond Hill Hospital, right across the street.
🚑 Emergency department
- Chest pain or pressure
- Stroke signs: face drooping, arm weakness, speech difficulty
- Severe trouble breathing
- Severe bleeding or major injury
- Sudden severe headache, confusion, fainting or seizure
- Severe allergic reaction
- Thoughts of harming yourself or others
🕒 Walk-in appointment
- Colds, sore throat, ear or sinus symptoms that are getting worse
- Urinary tract infection symptoms
- Minor rashes, cuts or sprains
- Pink eye
- Minor problems when your own doctor isn’t available
🩺 Your family doctor
- Ongoing conditions: diabetes, blood pressure, asthma, mental health
- Annual check-ups and preventive screening
- Medication renewals and test results
- Specialist referrals
- Symptoms that aren’t urgent but aren’t going away
Why your family doctor matters
Your family doctor knows your history, which makes a big difference for anything long-term. Royal Medical Centre is accepting new family medicine patients.
Not sure? Call Health811
Health811 is Ontario’s free, 24/7 health line staffed by registered nurses. Dial 811 (TTY 1-866-797-0007) or visit health811.ontario.ca. They can help you decide whether you need care tonight, tomorrow or at home.
A note about antibiotics: most colds, coughs and sore throats are caused by viruses, and antibiotics won’t help them. Read more in our article on antibiotic use for coughs and congestion.
What to bring to any visit
- Your Ontario health card (OHIP)
- A list of your current medications and allergies
- Notes on when your symptoms started and what you’ve tried
Phone lines close at 1:00 pm. This article is for general information and is not a substitute for medical advice. In an emergency, call 911.
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