Emergency Care at WPSHC
Our team in the Emergency Department is committed to delivering efficient, high-quality care. While we strive to provide prompt and effective care to everyone, please note that patients with the most urgent medical conditions will be prioritized. Our team is working as quickly as possible to offer you the best care available.
If you are in need of serious medical attention, CALL 911 or go to your nearest Emergency Department.
Demands change rapidly in our Emergency Department, and the sickest patients are always prioritized, we appreciate your patience and understanding during your visit.
Wait-Time Tracker
We understand that not all trips to our ED are for urgent care. In order to help patients plan their visit, WPSHC has created our Emergency Department Wait Time Tracker. This tool uses current department volumes and historical data to provide estimated wait times, offering a helpful guide for your visit.
However, please keep in mind that due to changes in volume or sudden urgent cases, the tracker’s wait times may be affected.
We appreciate your understanding as we prioritize care based on medical need.
Emergency Department Programs and Services
Geriatric Emergency Management (GEM) Programs, which include nurses and other members of the interprofessional team, provide specialized frailty focused health care services in Emergency Departments (ED) to older adults presenting to the ED. Their role in conducting targeted geriatric assessment and identifying older adult specific interventions is important as older adults may be under-triaged and under-treated in acute care settings. The goal of a GEM program is to improve the quality of life and health outcomes for older adults by addressing physical, mental, and social aspects of aging.
West Parry Sound Health Centre’s Emergency Department provides free Naloxone and Harm Reduction supplies 24/7 in partnership with the Health Unit. You are not required to register as a patient in order to access these supplies. You can also access these supplies via our Mental Health and Addictions Services during business hours.
If you feel that you are in an acute crisis and need immediate assistance, do not hesitate to visit our Emergency Department. The West Parry Sound Health Centre’s Mental Health Nurse Navigator works closely with our Emergency Department to connect people to the care they need. For more information visit our Mental Health and Addictions Services Page.
Alternative Care Options
Use Health811 in within Ontario to speak to a qualified health professional 24/7, without leaving home.
Free, secure and confidential service Ontarians can call or access online 24 hours a day, seven days a week to receive health advice from qualified health professionals, such as registered nurses, locate health services and find trusted health information.
Phone: 811
TTY: 1-866-797-0007
Book a Virtual Appointment with a Nurse Practitioner in North Eastern Ontario
Did you know that you can access virtual appointments through the North East Virtual Care Clinic? The North East Virtual Care Clinic is a Nurse Practitioner-led virtual care clinic that works with local health care providers to ensure patients can access more timely care. They serve patients within Ontario Health North East region which spans from White River to the Quebec border and Peawanuck to Parry Sound.
The Virtual Care Clinic serve patients throughout the region, who require timely medical care. Examples of those they care for include:
- Patients with new or persistent cough, fever, rash or other similar symptoms
- Patients with imminent concerns but are not life or limb threatening
- Patients with or without a primary care provider
They work with hospitals to refer patients to their local Emergency Department if needed and provide information on Health811 for patients seeking a primary care provider. To book an appointment visit their website or call 1-888-684-1999.
Did you know that Pharmacists in Ontario can assess and recommend suitable treatment options including a prescription (if needed) for the following minor ailments?
Contact your pharmacist to ask about a minor ailment consultation treating:
- Bacterial skin infection (impetigo)
- Canker sores
- Cold sores
- Diaper rash
- Eczema and allergic skin rash
- Heartburn and indigestion
- Hemorrhoids
- Insect bites and stings
- Joint and muscle pain
- Mild acne
- Menstrual pain
- Nasal allergies (i.e., hay fever)
- Nausea and vomiting of pregnancy
- Pink eye (due to allergies or bacteria)
- Pinworms and threadworms
- Thrush (fungal infection of the mouth)
- Tick bites (Lyme disease prevention)
- Urinary Tract Infection (unless you are: pregnant, assigned male at birth, immunocompromised, or have had another UTI in the last four weeks)
- Yeast infection
Minor ailments are described as health conditions that can be managed with minimal treatment and/or self-care strategies. Additional criteria include:
- Usually, a short-term condition
- Lab results aren’t usually required
- Low risk of treatment masking underlying conditions
- No medication or medical history red flags that could suggest a more serious condition
- Only minimal or short-term follow-up is required
Patients are encouraged to speak to their pharmacist to find out what health care services they offer and whether they are right for their needs. Having the legislated authority to prescribe for minor ailments does not mean all pharmacists must offer or provide this service.
Did you know that you can access the Public Health Unit’s Sexual Health Clinic to advice you on your Sexual Health needs? Call 705-746-5801 ext. 3213 or 1-800-563-2808 ext. 3213 to book an appointment. At our Sexual Health Clinic, you’ll find a safe, non-judgmental atmosphere where you can have an open discussion about your sexual health. The clinic is staffed by administrative assistants, public health nurses, nurse practitioners, and physicians.
How do I get there?
Enter through the Emergency room Entrance past the Main Lobby Entrance.
Patient drop-off directly in front of the Emergency Department Entrance.
