At St. Thomas Elgin General Hospital, we understand that not all medical issues require an Emergency Department visit. For non-urgent conditions, there are several alternative care options available in the community that can provide you with the attention you need, without the wait. These options are designed to help you access appropriate care for minor illnesses and injuries, so you can reserve the Emergency Department for more critical situations. Below, you will find a list of these alternatives, which can offer timely and efficient care based on your health needs.

Register to find a family doctor or nurse practitioner

If you are looking for a family doctor or nurse practitioner, you can register with Health Care Connect online or call 8-1-1 to find a doctor or nurse practitioner in your area.

OPTIONS FOR CARE IN ELGIN COUNTY:

St. Thomas-Elgin Community Health Hub

Ongoing health care for residents who do not currently have a family doctor or nurse practitioner:

• Diagnosing and treating illnesses and injuries
• Managing chronic illness
• Prenatal care
• Finding healthcare support in the community

109-230 First Avenue, St. Thomas, ON
Book an appointment: 519-473-0530, ext. 2258
Book online: https://ocean.cognisantmd.com/online-booking/55722d6c-fdda-4b1a-ab5a-10c23d8ec603 
Website: https://thamesvalleyfht.ca/locations/elgin-community-health-hub/

Urgent Care Ontario - Virtual urgent care

Virtual (video or phone) urgent care for residents in Southwestern Ontario. Appointment costs are fully covered with an Ontario health card. Whenever possible your family doctor is your first point of access for care. A virtual urgent care appointment may be right for you if you or a loved one have a medical issue that is NOT life threatening, but requires urgent medical attention.

Book an appointment: 1-844-CARE-844 (1-844-227-3844) After Hours: 811 (TTY 1-866-797-0007)
Book online: www.urgentcareontario.ca
Visit the website for appointment hours and more information: www.urgentcareontario.ca

Health 811 (formerly Telehealth Ontario)

Receive advice from a nurse, ask questions about symptoms, find local services, and get health information.
Call: 8-1-1 (TTY 1-866-797-0007)
Chat online: https://health811.ontario.ca/

St. Thomas Walk-in Clinic

105-230 First Avenue, St. Thomas
Monday - Friday; 6-9PM
Saturday & Sunday; 9AM - 3PM
Call: 519-633-9627

East Elgin Family Health Team - Nurse Practitioner Community Outreach Clinic

Open to residents of Aylmer, Malahide or Bayham who do not have a primary care provider or nurse practitioner.

9254 Plank Road, Straffordville, ON
Monday, Wednesday, & Thursday 9AM - 4PM
Appointments required. Call: 519-773-3715

Suicide Crisis Helpline 9-8-8

A safe space to talk 24/7 (24 hours a day; 7 days a week)
Call or text: 9-8-8
Website: https://988.ca/

Reach Out 24/7

A free 24/7 (24 hours a day; 7 days a week) confidential mental health and addictions support and services line.
Call or text: 519-433-2023 / 1-866-933-2023
Website/webchat: https://reachout247.ca/