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Understand your care options
Walk-in clinic, urgent care, emergency — they are not the same. Choose one to learn what it is for.
Walk-in clinic
A clinic that sees people without an appointment for minor problems that cannot wait for your family doctor. You usually see whichever provider is available, and they do not follow you over time.
- Typical wait
- Often 1–3 hours, same day
- Appointment
- Not required (some offer online booking)
- Cost in Canada
- Covered with a valid health card
Go here when
- You have a cold, sore throat, ear or eye infection
- You need a simple prescription or a sick note
- You have a minor rash, urinary symptoms or a small cut
- You do not have a family doctor and the problem is minor
Not the right place for
- Broken bones, deep wounds or stitches
- Chest pain, trouble breathing or severe pain
- Complex or long-term condition management
Quick comparison
| Place | Best for | Wait |
|---|---|---|
| Family doctor / primary care | Ongoing care, check-ups, referrals | Days to weeks for a booking |
| Walk-in clinic | Minor illness, no family doctor | Often 1–3 hours, same day |
| Urgent care centre | Needs care today, not life-threatening | Often 1–4 hours, patients seen by severity |
| Emergency department (ER) | Serious or life-threatening problems | Can be many hours; sickest patients first |
| Pharmacy | Medication advice, minor ailments | Usually minutes |
| Health information line | Not sure where to go | Minutes on the phone |
This is general information about how care is organized in Canada. Services and costs can differ by province or territory. If you are unsure, call your provincial health line or ask a pharmacist. In an emergency, call 911.