Benefits of Toronto’s Walk-In Clinics: Fast, Flexible, and OHIP-Covered Care

benefits of walk-in clinics

In a city as busy and diverse as Toronto, healthcare needs can arise when you least expect them, and not everyone has time to wait for a family doctor appointment or sit for hours in an emergency room. That’s where a walk-in clinic in Toronto comes in.

From handling minor illnesses to offering diagnostics and prescriptions, walk-in clinics are changing the way Toronto residents access care. At Lockwood Clinic, we believe that top-quality healthcare should be accessible, convenient, and stress-free—no matter your schedule.

Why More Torontonians Are Turning to Walk-In Clinics

Walk-in clinics were once considered a backup plan. Now? They’re often the first stop for non-urgent healthcare needs. With increasingly long waits to see a family physician in Ontario and overcrowded ERs, walk-in clinics are bridging a crucial gap in the healthcare system.

Walk-In Clinics Offer:

  • Same-day care without the need for appointments
  • Convenient downtown locations accessible by TTC or car
  • A wide range of OHIP-covered services
  • Shorter wait times compared to hospitals

According to the Canadian Institute for Health Information, ER visits for non-urgent issues have been increasing, leading to delays in care. Walk-in clinics help ease this burden and provide quicker access for patients.

Related Article: When to Go to the Emergency Room Vs Walk-in Clinic?

Key Benefits of Walk-In Clinics in Toronto

No Appointments Needed

One of the biggest advantages of a walk-in clinic is flexibility. Whether you woke up feeling under the weather or your child scraped a knee at the park, you can drop in and get help—no pre-booking or waiting days for an opening.

Convenient Urban Locations

Clinics like Lockwood are strategically located close to public transit and offer central Toronto access, making them ideal for students, commuters, seniors, and anyone who doesn’t want to trek to the suburbs for care.

OHIP-Covered Services

From consultations to diagnostics, many services at walk-in clinics are fully covered by OHIP, ensuring you get quality healthcare without surprise bills. While some services (like dental or optometry) may fall outside of OHIP, most basic care is covered.

Related Article: How much is a doctor visit without OHIP?

doctor checking patient in clinic

Services You Can Expect at Lockwood Clinic’s Walk-In Facility

Wondering what you can actually be treated for at a walk-in clinic in Toronto? Here’s a breakdown of core services available at Lockwood Clinic:

General Medical Consultations

From coughs, colds, and seasonal allergies to minor cuts, strains, and rashes, our physicians are ready to diagnose and treat a wide range of non-life-threatening concerns.

Prescription Refills & Renewals

Can’t get a hold of your regular doctor? Need to renew blood pressure or thyroid meds? Walk-in clinics like Lockwood offer quick prescription support for ongoing conditions.

On-Site Diagnostics and Lab Services

We’re more than just a walk-in—we offer X-rays and ultrasound, and lab testing all in one place.. That means faster answers and fewer stops on your path to recovery.

Women’s Health Services

From UTI treatment to pap smears, STI testing, and contraception consultations, our team provides discreet and supportive care without the long waits.

Immunizations and Vaccinations

Get OHIP-covered flu shots, COVID boosters, or travel vaccines all in one visit. We’ll even help you understand which vaccines you need for work or international travel.

Minor Injury Management

Cuts, burns, sprains, bug bites—we treat them all. If it’s not an emergency, but still uncomfortable or concerning, come see us.

Related Article: Finding a Walk-In Clinic in Toronto: A Guide to Convenient and Affordable Healthcare

Walk-In Clinics vs. ER vs. Family Doctor: What’s the Difference?

It’s not always clear where to go when you’re feeling unwell. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Condition Best Option
High fever, chest pain, or trauma Emergency Room
Chronic condition management Family Doctor
Sore throat, rash, minor injury Walk-In Clinic
Missed appointment, can’t wait Walk-In Clinic

Walk-in clinics are perfect for in-between situations—those that need medical attention, but don’t justify a trip to the ER or a 3-week wait to see your GP.

Who Benefits the Most from Walk-In Clinics?

Toronto’s walk-in clinics serve a broad audience, including:

  • Students who need quick care near campus
  • Professionals who can’t miss work for doctor appointments
  • Seniors in need of easy, nearby care
  • Parents with children who suddenly fall ill
  • Visitors and new residents who haven’t registered with a family physician yet

Whether it’s a quick checkup or something a little more complex, walk-in clinics are the go-to solution when time and accessibility matter.

patients in clinic and doctor checking child girl

Why Choose Lockwood Clinic?

Lockwood Clinic isn’t just any walk-in. We’ve served Toronto residents for decades, offering multi-disciplinary, integrated care that includes:

  • Family practice physicians
  • Specialists and imaging
  • On-site pharmacy
  • Echocardiograms & Cardiac Consultation

Our walk-in services are backed by a team of compassionate medical professionals, state-of-the-art facilities, and a patient-first approach to care.

Contact Lockwood Clinic

Whether you’re dealing with a cold, managing a chronic condition, or need a quick vaccine, our walk-in clinic in Toronto is your trusted care destination.

Contact us or drop by during clinic hours for same-day service. Your health is important. Let’s make it easy to care for it.

FAQs

  1. Do I need a health card to visit Lockwood Clinic’s walk-in?
    Yes, a valid OHIP card is required for covered services. We also offer private-pay options.
  2. Can I get lab work done at Lockwood Clinic?
    Absolutely. We have on-site diagnostics including blood work, X-rays, and ultrasounds.
  3. What are your walk-in hours?
    Walk-in clinic hours vary—check our website or call ahead for the most up-to-date info.
  4. Do you treat children at your walk-in clinic?
    Yes, we offer pediatric services for common concerns like fever, rashes, and injuries.
  5. What’s the average wait time?
    Wait times are usually shorter than ERs and vary depending on the day and time. Mornings are often faster.

Services You Can Expect at a Walk-In Clinic in Toronto

services in walk-in-clinic

Looking for quick, quality healthcare without the wait? A walk-in clinic in Toronto might be your best bet. Whether it’s a sore throat that just won’t quit, a minor injury, or the need for a prescription refill, walk-in clinics are the unsung heroes of day-to-day health concerns.

At Lockwood Clinic, we know life doesn’t stop when you’re not feeling your best. That’s why our walk-in services are designed to make getting medical attention fast, easy, and stress-free, without sacrificing personalized care.

What Is a Walk-In Clinic?

A walk-in clinic is exactly what it sounds like—a healthcare facility where you don’t need an appointment. You simply walk in, check in, and get seen by a qualified medical professional. These clinics are ideal for non-emergency situations that still require prompt attention.

How Do Walk-In Clinics Work?

Patients are seen on a first-come, first-served basis. Some clinics, including Lockwood, also offer online check-ins or virtual waitlists so you can save your spot before you arrive.

Who Benefits From Walk-In Services?

  • People without a family doctor
  • Individuals with minor illnesses or injuries
  • Those in need of quick prescription renewals
  • Busy professionals and families who need same-day service

Walk-in clinics fill the gap between family doctors and emergency rooms, offering convenience without compromise.

Core Services at a Walk-In Clinic in Toronto

Wondering what you can actually be treated for at a Toronto walk-in clinic? Here’s a snapshot of the key services we provide at Lockwood Clinic.

General Medical Consultations

From cold and flu symptoms to minor injuries like sprains and strains, we offer fast access to physiotherapy professionals who can assess and manage a wide variety of non-urgent health issues.

Prescription Renewals and Refills

Need your medication refilled, but can’t get into your family doctor? No problem. Walk-in clinics are ideal for straightforward prescription renewals for chronic conditions like asthma, high blood pressure, or thyroid disorders.

Lab Testing and Diagnostics

Many walk-in clinics offer on-site blood work and lab testing. Whether you need a urine sample analyzed or routine bloodwork done, we’ve got you covered.

Vaccinations and Immunizations

Walk-in clinics are a go-to spot for seasonal flu shots, travel vaccines, and COVID-19 tests and boosters. We provide OHIP-covered vaccines and private immunizations for those travelling or working in healthcare.

Women’s Health Services

Our physicians can assist with birth control, STI testing, pap smears, and urinary tract infection treatment—no appointment required.

Minor Injury Treatment

Think cuts, burns, rashes, and insect bites. If it’s not an emergency, but you don’t want to wait days for care, a walk-in clinic is the place to go.

Dental, Vision & Hearing Support

In-house dental care, optometry services for routine eye exams and vision prescriptions, and audiology for hearing assessments and hearing aid fittings—all in one place for your convenience.

Related Article: Can I Get a Prescription from a Walk-In Clinic?

minor injury treatment in clinic

When Should You Use a Walk-In Clinic?

Not sure if a walk-in is the right choice for your health concern? Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide.

Ideal Times to Choose a Walk-In

  • Sore throat, fever, or flu symptoms
  • Minor injuries like sprains, cuts, or burns
  • Prescription refills or quick check-ups
  • Allergies or skin conditions
  • Non-urgent infections (UTIs, earaches, etc.)

When to See Your Family Doctor

If your issue is chronic, ongoing, or needs in-depth follow-up, it’s better to schedule with your family physician. Think: diabetes management, mental health treatment, or long-term medication adjustments.

When to Go to the ER

If you’re experiencing chest pain, severe shortness of breath, stroke symptoms, or serious trauma, skip the clinic and call 911 or head to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Related Article: When to Go to the Emergency Room Vsa Walk-in Clinic?

What Sets Lockwood Clinic Apart?

Not all clinics are created equal. Here’s why patients across Toronto trust Lockwood Clinic for walk-in care:

Trusted Reputation in Toronto Healthcare

As a multidisciplinary medical hub serving the city for decades, Lockwood Clinic offers continuity of care across specialists, labs, and diagnostic imaging—all under one roof.

Integrated Services

Need an X-ray, lab work, or follow-up with a specialist? You’re already in the right place. Our integrated model means less running around and faster results.

Central Location & Accessibility

Located in Midtown Toronto, we’re easily accessible by TTC, car, or foot. Open extended hours for your convenience.

What to Bring and Expect at Your Visit

Preparation can make your walk-in visit smoother and quicker. Here’s how to plan ahead.

Bring:

  • Your OHIP card
  • List of current medications
  • Any recent test results or medical notes (if applicable)

Expect:

  • A short wait, depending on volume
  • Professional assessment by a licensed physician
  • On-site lab services if necessary
  • Referral to specialists when required

And yes, most services at our walk-in clinic are covered by OHIP, though some specialty services may incur fees. We’ll always let you know upfront.

Related Article: How Much Does It Cost To Go To A Walk-In Clinic In Ontario?

on-site lab services

Contact Lockwood Clinic

At Lockwood Clinic, your health doesn’t have to wait. Our Toronto walk-in clinic provides quick, reliable medical care when you need it most—no appointment required. From minor illnesses to prescription refills and on-site testing, we’ve got your non-emergency needs covered with professionalism and compassion.

Visit or contact us today and get the care you deserve—fast.

FAQs

  1. Can I get a same-day appointment at Lockwood Clinic?
    Yes! Our walk-in clinic accepts patients without appointments—just check in during regular hours.
  2. Are your walk-in services covered by OHIP?
    Absolutely. Most services are covered if you have a valid OHIP card. We’ll inform you of any exceptions upfront.
  3. Do you offer virtual walk-in consultations?
    Currently, walk-in visits are in-person. However, our team can help you book a virtual appointment if needed.
  4. Can I get STI testing at Lockwood Clinic’s walk-in?
    Yes, we offer discreet and confidential STI testing and treatment—no referral required.
  5. How long is the typical wait time?
    It varies based on time of day and volume, but we aim to keep wait times as short as possible.

Finding a Walk-In Clinic in Toronto: A Guide to Convenient and Affordable Healthcare

walk-in clinic in toronto

Toronto is a big city with many different options for healthcare. Knowing where to go and how to get the care you need can be difficult, especially if you’re new to the city or have specific health needs.

A walk-in clinic is an excellent option for convenient and affordable healthcare. In this blog post, we’ll provide a guide on how to find a walk-in clinic in Toronto.

This blog cover what to look for in a clinic, services they offer, and how to make the most of your visit. Whether you’re looking for urgent care, primary care, or general information, this guide will help you find the right walk-in clinic for your needs.

Why You Might Need to Visit a Walk-in Clinic

Walk-in clinics provide medical services for those who need medical attention but can’t wait to make an appointment with a regular doctor. Typically, walk-in clinics are accessible seven days a week and can accommodate short-notice visits due to their convenient hours.

Walk-in clinics in Toronto also treat non-emergency issues, such as colds and flu, minor infections, or minor cuts that require stitches. Walk-in clinics can also offer vaccinations such as flu shots and travel health vaccines.

While many people view their regular physician as the go-to source of primary healthcare, visiting a walk-in clinic is an excellent option when an urgent care visit is necessary.

Related Article: How Do I Find a Good Family Doctor in Toronto?

What Services Do Walk-in Clinics Offer

Walk-in clinics offer patients conveniently delivered healthcare services for various everyday concerns. Designed to provide same-day care, walk-in clinics typically house board-certified providers who can assist with minor medical needs such as:

  • Colds
  • Flu
  • Allergies
  • Headaches
  • General medical examinations

You can also find walk-in clinics in Toronto that tend to more immediate needs like lacerations and eye irritations or sprains.

A standard walk-in clinic in Toronto is often equipped to perform tests like urine cultures, rapid mono tests, and strep tests on-site. This means you can expect swift results without extra visits.

In addition to these standard services, the knowledgeable staff at a walk-in clinic may be able to refer you to more specialized services when needed.

medical examinations

How to Find a Reputable Walk-in Clinic in Toronto?

If you’re looking for a walk-in clinic in Toronto, there are a few simple steps to make your search as quick and easy as possible.

Word of Mouth

To start the process, ask your friends and family for recommendations. Sometimes, word of mouth is the best way to ensure you’re choosing a quality establishment.

Online Research

A quick online search can help you find a walk-in clinic in the Greater Toronto Area. Simply type “walk-in clinic near me” into your search engine, and various clinics should appear in your city or within close range.

If the search engine doesn’t provide enough information, you can also try searching on credible websites such as Yellow Pages or Health 411 to find more different clinics.

Read Reviews

Read reviews from past patients to gain insight into the quality of services offered and ensure they align with your expectations before visiting. You may even find online ratings and comments on the clinic’s social media pages if you’d like to get more specific feedback from previous patients.

Call Ahead

Calling ahead and asking questions is another great way to narrow down your choices. You can inquire about wait times, whether the clinic requires appointments in advance, or other additional information not available online.

A pre-emptive phone call will also help you clarify information on payment options. For instance, some clinics provide financial aid for patients who cannot afford costly medical treatments.

Organize Priorities

Take some time to think about your specific needs and determine the type of care you require. Asking these questions might be of use:

  • Does the clinic offer particular services?
  • Does it accept insurance?
  • Does the clinic have bilingual staff?
  • Are walk-in hours convenient for your schedule?

Researching these factors ahead of time can save a lot of time and energy when looking for the right walk-in clinic. It will also help narrow your search for a clinic to meet those needs.

Check Working Hours and Location

This is another important talking point while finding a walk-in clinic that provides convenient, affordable healthcare. After all, the location and timing of their services are part of convenience.

Make sure to research the clinic’s hours of operation and location; many walk-in clinics offer extended hours or are open on weekends to better serve the community.

What to Expect When You Visit a Walk-in Clinic

Visiting a walk-in clinic can be a valuable healthcare option for individuals searching for convenient, cost-effective medical care. At the clinic, you should expect to receive an assessment of your health needs with quality care and attention within an efficient timeframe.

With friendly staff and experienced physicians on hand, you can receive exemptions or prescriptions as needed. As part of the visit experience, screening services may also be offered depending on your medical history.

If you want additional advice, specialists at the clinic can provide direction to manage ensuing treatments at home through nutrition and lifestyle choices. All in all, visiting a walk-in clinic guarantees sound medical advice and top-notch quality service.

Related Article: COVID-19 Vaccine and Booster Shots Walk-in Clinic

visit a walk-in clinic

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for medical treatment and don’t have a family doctor, or if you need treatment outside of regular office hours, a walk-in clinic might be the right choice for you.

Be sure to research a reputable and affordable clinic in Toronto, and remember to bring any relevant medical information with you when you visit. With these tips in mind, you can make the most of your trip to the walk-in clinic and get the care and treatment you need.

Here at Lockwood Clinic, we are a one-stop healthcare destination for Toronto area residents of all ages. We provide onsite testing, including Nuclear Cardiology, an X-Ray Ultrasound Lab, and a Pharmacy and Physiotherapy Clinic.

Call 416-929-1900 today to book an appointment or walk into our clinic in downtown Toronto today.

Can I Get a Prescription from a Walk-In Clinic?

prescription walk-in clinic

BCML Walk-in clinic makes it easy to get both the medical care and prescriptions you need all in one convenient location. We offer an expansive range of non-emergency medical care right in the heart of downtown Toronto, including prescriptions from our onsite pharmacy.

Whether you need antibiotics for strep throat, require medication to manage a chronic condition, or have any other prescription needs, BCML is here for you. In this post we will look at everything you need to know about getting your prescriptions filled at Toronto’s BCML walk-in clinic.

To order prescription delivery or refills now, contact us at 416-640-7700.

Ways to Get Your Walk-In Clinic Prescriptions in Toronto

In-Person: BCML pharmacy is located onsite at our downtown Toronto location. We stock hundreds of the most common prescriptions to make getting your medications fast and easy.

Auto-Refill: Sign-up for our auto-refill option to have your prescriptions automatically filled on time. Note that prescriptions will require physician approval before being filled. If you do not have any refills left, you will need to contact your doctor. You may also call our pharmacy to have us contact your physician but it is often better for patients to contact their doctors personally.

Prescription Delivery: Make auto-refill even more beneficial by combining it with our prescription delivery service. BCML offers free local Toronto prescription delivery throughout the GTA.

Pharmacy Hours

BCML strives to maintain hours that fit the needs of our patients. If the hours below do not suit your needs, we encourage you to sign up for our free delivery options.

Mon-Thurs:

8AM – 8PM

Friday:

8AM – 6PM

Saturday:

9AM – 3PM

Sunday:

CLOSED

prescriptions in toronto

Why Choose Prescription Auto-Refill and Delivery

Auto-refill and prescription delivery are the best ways to ensure you always have the prescriptions you need to stay healthy. Here are the top benefits you can expect from auto-refill and delivery:

Prescriptions When You Need Them

If you have ever had to make an emergency trip to the pharmacy for a prescription that has run out, you already understand the benefits of auto-refill and delivery. With these combined services you will never have to worry about missing a dose due to an unfilled prescription.

Free Toronto Prescription Delivery

BCML offers 100% free prescription delivery anywhere in the greater Toronto area. Get your prescriptions shipped in time so you never run out. Your prescriptions arrive right at your doorstep making it easier than ever to stay on top of your health needs.

Affordable Prescriptions and Time Savings

Along with keeping drug costs affordable, delivery also means never having to waste time or gas on getting your prescriptions. This is part of BCML’s commitment to helping our patients stay healthy while also making medical care as cost-effective and convenient as possible.

Reminder Alerts

Auto-refill options can be used to alert you to when your next refill is due and if you have refills left. Most prescriptions will need to be re-approved by your physician after a certain amount of refills. Reminders help further ensure you are not left without your necessary prescriptions.

Note, some restrictions may apply to auto-refill and delivery. Certain prescriptions may not be deliverable and a doctor’s approval will be required for additional refills. Speak with your physician about refill approval and your requirements for continued approval. For example, many prescriptions require you to have an in-person visit with your doctor at least once a year in order to qualify for a prescription renewal.

Do I Have to Choose Delivery for Auto-Refills?

While many patients do combine our delivery and auto-refill options, they do not have to be used together. Patients will sometimes choose auto-refill as opposed to delivery since they prefer picking up their own prescriptions. If you live or work close to the BCML clinic, in-person pick-up is a fast and convenient option.

Why Get Prescriptions Filled at a Walk-In Clinic?

One of the biggest benefits to getting your prescriptions from a walk-in clinic like BCML is that you are often able to receive a diagnosis of common ailments and get your medication at the same time.

All the Care You Need in One Place

Since our campus also includes dental services, physical therapy, family medicine, and diagnostics you can often get your prescriptions filled on the day they are prescribed while you wait. This is particularly convenient when you have any condition that requires antibiotics or pain medication.

Our other services include:

  • Physiotherapy
  • Dental care
  • Family practice
  • Optometric centre
  • Nuclear cardiology
  • X-ray and Ultrasound lab
  • Hearing assessment and hearing aids
  • Vaccines including COVID-19 and flu shots

optometric centre

Experienced Pharmacists

BCML’s pharmacists are experienced and knowledgeable about a wide range of drugs and drug interactions. Whether you come in to get your prescription or choose delivery, our pharmacists are here to answer all of your medication questions. Ask our pharmacists when you come in or call 416-640-7700 to speak to a pharmacist during business hours.

Fast Relief

When you are in pain or have a contagious illness, it is important to get medication as quickly as possible. Our onsite pharmacy makes that easier than ever.

Healthier for You and the Community

Convenient prescriptions always make it easier for patients to stay on top of their health. Additionally, it is also better for the community as it can lower the risks of spreading contagious illness.

Being able to receive a medication at the same location where you are diagnosed means less traveling to other locations and coming into contact with fewer people. Though you must still be careful with contact whenever you have a contagious illness, this is one small way to reduce risks.

Order Your Prescriptions Now

Take the stress out of getting the prescriptions you need with convenient refill and delivery options from BCML. We also offer walk-in clinic services and service by appointment.

Order prescriptions and refills by calling us at 416-640-7700.  You can also schedule an appointment or inquire about other services by calling our walk-in clinic at 416-929-1900 or scheduling an appointment through our online appointment portal.

Difference Between Urgent Care & Walk-In Clinics? 

Urgent Care & Walk-In Clinics

At the most basic level “walk-in” medical care is care you can receive without a prior appointment. Technically, this can describe a variety of medical facilities including retail clinics, urgent care facilities, community health centers, and emergency rooms. However, while both urgent care and walk-in clinics qualify under this definition, there are distinct differences between the two.

Overall, an urgent care facility has greater capabilities than a walk-in clinic while neither is as robust as an emergency room. Here we will look at the services typically offered at urgent care vs. walk-in clinics and when to visit each.

What is a Walk-In Clinic?

The term “walk-in clinic” refers to medical facilities that do not require an appointment and can provide care for many non life-threatening health concerns. However, walk-in clinic is sometimes used to refer to what is also known as a “retail clinic.”

While most non retail clinics are free standing facilities or part of larger medical complexes, a retail clinic is most often located inside a pharmacy. Originally intended to provide basic medical care in underserved communities, retail clinics can provide immunizations, prescription refills, and screening for common health concerns like high blood pressure. Some may also be able to diagnose and treat common illnesses like strep throat.

In contrast, a free standing walk-in clinic will provide everything a retail clinic does with the addition of services like blood testing, x-rays and treatment for a wider range of injuries and illnesses.

What is Urgent Care?

Urgent care has many of the same services as a walk-in clinic but has an emphasis on treatment for non life threatening, but urgent matters. This would include treatment for minor wounds, sprains, simple breaks, and burns. An urgent care will also have greater diagnostic capabilities than a retail clinic including blood testing, x-rays, and urinalysis. Additionally, urgent care will usually have a doctor on staff while a retail clinic will have a nurse practitioner or physician’s assistant.

When to Go to Urgent Care Vs a Walk-In Clinic

While urgent care and walk-in clinics have similarities, each is better for different situations. Things to consider before choosing include the severity of your injury, hours of operation, and if an emergency room or your primary care physician may be a better choice.

Immunizations: For vaccines and other routine shots, a walk-in clinic is likely to be your best option. However, your primary care physician is also a good choice if you can get an appointment.

Physical: A physical and other basic health screenings can be performed at a walk-in clinic like Bay College Medical & Lockwood Diagnostic. If you need specific testing, however; it is best to call ahead to ensure the clinic offers that service since walk-in clinics can vary greatly. At BCML we offer a full range of diagnostic services to help with regular check-ups and diagnosis of specific ailments.

Minor Infections or Illness: For health concerns such as strep throat, urinary tract infection, low grade fever, or small rash, a walk-in clinic is typically best. However, if any of these issues is severe, an urgent care may be a better choice. Similarly, for a high fever that will not break in 3 days or less it is likely time for an emergency room visit..

Bone Breaks: While an urgent care and some walk-in clinics can handle simple sprains and some fractures, this is usually a matter for the emergency room.

Major Accidents: Car accidents, burns, head injuries, chest pains, signs of stroke and any other potentially life-threatening condition should be treated at an emergency room. Urgent care may be able to help with some of these conditions but they are more likely to direct you to an emergency room so it is better to go there first.

medical facilities

Other Considerations

Hours of Operation: One major determining factor is when you need treatment. Generally, a retail walk-in clinic will be open the same hours as the pharmacy it is located in. An urgent care, on the other hand, will typically have extended hours into the later evening and on the weekend. However, even with extended hours, an urgent care may not be 24/7. If you need care in the middle of the night or during the weekend, an hospital emergency room may be the only option.

Where You Will Receive the Fastest Care: While an emergency room is the most likely to have the tools for just about any injury, it can pose the issue of extreme wait times.  Also, patients with the most severe issues will be seen first. Therefore, while you should always seek emergency attention when it is needed, try to utilize a walk-in clinic or urgent care whenever possible.

Should You Wait to See Your Primary Care Doctor: When your health concerns are not urgent or an emergency, a visit to your doctor may be more beneficial. Your physician will have your medical history on file and be better able to assess your overall health.  If possible, call your doctor to describe your symptoms and see what their recommendation is.

Virtual Doctor Appointments: Virtual appointments have some obvious limitations but they can be a convenient way to consult with your doctor quickly. In a virtual meeting, your doctor may be able to provide advice for at-home care of a variety of illnesses and injuries. They may also be able to diagnose some visible health concerns such as rashes.

Urgent Care & Walk-In Clinics Downtown Toronto

Both urgent care and walk-in clinics can treat and diagnose a wide variety of health concerns while allowing you to skip long wait times for an appointment with your doctor, or the emergency room.

If you need the services of a walk-in clinic in Toronto, Bay College Medical & Lockwood Diagnostic is here to help. Along with care for illness and injury, we also offer dental care, physiotherapy, cardiology, blood testing, hearing tests, and eye exams. For help with your total health, call BCML today at 416-929-1900.