Medical Support Through Access Line
Did you know you can ask questions related to your non-urgent medical needs via the Access line?
To reach the Medical ACCESS line please call 1-888-536-3599.
Select your region:
- BC
- Edmonton
- Prairies
- Ottawa
- Ontario
- Quebec and Maritimes
Then press 1 for the Medical line.
Murids can speak to a live intake volunteer from 6-8pm local time, from Monday to Saturday in all regions except Quebec/Maritimes which will host live hours Mondays and Thursdays from 6-8pm local time.
Should the murid call outside of the hours above, they will be directed to leave a message. You should expect to hear back from the regional health intake volunteer within 24 hours of the initial point of contact. Depending on the complexity of the medical situation, a murid’s concern may not be resolved within one encounter; instead, a working relationship will be developed to help guide the murid in the best way possible.
Below is a list of questions that can be addressed by calling:
- Questions regarding COVID-19 symptoms and guidance regarding criteria for testing in their region, public health recommendations, and when to engage their health care provider
- Concerns about inability to procure medication
- Questions regarding their own health or health of their families including when to seek medical attention, how to use public health recommendations to optimize health and safety, and how/where best to access care depending on symptoms/medical status (ex. primary care physical appointment vs virtual care if available vs ER visit)
- Questions around self-isolation, travel, gatherings, and visiting family and friends
- Questions around visiting elderly relatives, family/friends with illness or those who are immuno-compromised, or family in long-term care including regional visitation restrictions in hospital and long-term care facilities
- Questions around mental health resources and access
- Information on social distancing, hand hygiene, and safe handling of groceries and deliveries
- Health issues that are not COVID-19 related but require assistance with general information
- Up-to-date recommendations on when/how to use PPE (including cloth masks) especially in situations where there are COVID positive family members at home
- Information about the flu shot and precautions to take during flu season
Please note, significant medical emergencies must be directed to 911 and not the Medical Access line.