Help keep the emergency department for emergencies. There are a number of options when you need health care. Learn how to choose the right care at the right place.
Download the above resource here.
Emergency services are vital in life-threatening situations. However, they are not set up to care for routine illnesses, and they do not work on a first-come, first-served basis. During busy times, people with minor illnesses may need to wait. Get to know your other health care options.
For any health concern, call your family doctor first. Your family doctor knows you and your medical history. Same-day urgent appointments may be available.
If you don't have a family doctor or yours is unavailable, or if you have an injury or illness that requires immediate medical attention, but is not an emergency, visit an Urgent and Primary Care Centre. Find a location at fraserhealth.ca/urgentcare. Or, you can use medimap.ca to find a walk-in clinic in your area.
For trusted health advice call Fraser Health Virtual Care at 1-800-314-0999 to speak with a registered nurse from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. seven-days-a-week. Call 8-1-1 outside of those hours.
For minor ailments, such as urinary tract infections (UTIs) and Pink Eye, and medication refills speak with your pharmacist. Pharmacists are able to prescribe for contraception and many minor ailments. Your pharmacist may also be able to provide an emergency refill of your prescription, including medications for chronic conditions. You can also contact your pharmacist for minor issues that you may be able to manage with over-the-counter medications.
For a possible poisoning or exposure to a toxic substance, call Poison Control at 1-800-567-8911. For a child/youth mental health crisis, call Fraser Health's START program at 1-844-782-7811.
For mental health/substance use concerns, call the 24/7 Fraser Health Crisis Line at 604-951-8855 or toll free at 1-877-820-7444.
For Surrey residents, if you or your loved one has an urgent mental health or substance use concern (that does not require hospitalization), visit the Surrey Mental Health and Substance Use Urgent Care Response Centre.
For emergency or life-threatening conditions, including broken bones, severe breathing problems or severe bleeding call 9-1-1 or go to the nearest Emergency Room.
Think you might have COVID-19 and not sure if you need a test? Learn more: fraserhealth.ca/covid19testing.
Learn about wait times and when you should go to the emergency.