Islanders should always visit their family physician’s office or a walk-in clinic in non-urgent medical situations and the same is true during the holidays.
Visiting a walk-in clinic for non-urgent health care can help avoid potentially lengthy wait times that may occur at hospital emergency departments during the holiday season. Clinic locations are available at www.healthpei.ca/walkinclinics. Hours may vary and are subject to change, so please call ahead before visiting.
Anyone with urgent medical needs should call 9-1-1 or visit the nearest hospital emergency department when:
• experiencing discomfort or tightness in the chest;
• experiencing unusual shortness of breath;
• experiencing abdominal pain;
• experiencing prolonged and persistent headache or dizziness;
• an injury may require stitches or involve a broken bone;
• a child has prolonged diarrhea or vomiting; or
• a baby under the age of six months has a fever of 38 C (100.4 F) or higher.
If you are unsure what to do about a health issue or if you need health information, call 8-1-1. A registered nurse will assist you to determine whether you need to seek emergency services or follow up with a primary care provider, give you reliable information, and help you navigate the health care system.