Walk-in clinics
Walk-in clinics serve an important role in our healthcare system. Many patients do not have a family doctor or have trouble accessing them. This is where walk-in clinics could help. They’ve traditionally provided timely, same-day access to healthcare so that your health concerns can be addressed and treated.
That being said, we understand that most walk-in clinics are packed, at capacity, or shutting early. We recognize that taking a day off school or work so that you could wait in a doctor’s office is not convenient. Modern problems required modern solutions, which is where Walk In virtual care clinic can help.
See a doctor via telehealth
Walk In aims to provide timely access to healthcare for British Columbians. Our doctor’s visits are covered if you are insured under MSP. Many common, non-urgent illnesses can be addressed virtually.
We connect you with doctors via phone or video call. They can discuss your concern with you to help find appropriate, evidence-based care plans. We feel better when you feel better.
Primary and Virtual Care
Walk In was founded by a Family Doctor who understands the value of primary care. We wholeheartedly believe in access to longitudinal care for all British Columbians. If you have a family doctor or general practitioner, please consider connecting with them about your concern.
We recognize that not all individuals have a family doctor, or can access them on time. We’re happy to help out. Walk In’s services are meant to treat non-urgent, common illnesses such as acne, cold and flu, eczema, UTI, etc.
Our doctors may direct you to our physical location, a local urgent care centre, or emergency room for assessment if your issue cannot be addressed virtually or requires higher-level care.
Got questions about your healthcare?
Walk-in clinics, telehealth, telemedicine, virtual care, online doctors… Seems confusing? Don’t worry, we can help answer your questions.
What is a walk-in clinic?
A traditional walk-in clinic is a medical facility that provides episodic, non-urgent medical care to those who do not have a family doctor, are unable to go to their family doctor, or cannot secure an appointment in a timely manner. Only basic medical services are provided by walk-in clinics. Walk-in clinics are not meant to replace your family doctor – the best care is longitudinal.
When should I visit a walk-in clinic?
A walk-in clinic can provide you with episodic, non-urgent medical care when you don’t have a family physician, your family physician is unavailable, or your doctor is unable to see you soon enough. They are particularly useful when you need a visit now, but an emergency visit is not warranted. If you need to address a pre-existing or chronic issue, it is usually better to see your family doctor.
What is the difference between a walk-in clinic and a regular family practice office?
The difference between a walk-in clinic and a regular family practice office is that a walk-in clinic provides episodic, periodic care whereas a regular family practice office provides longitudinal care over an extended period of time. A family practice office typically lets you to see the same doctor who can learn about your personal history and condition in detail.
At a walk-in clinic, on the other hand, you would see a different doctor with each visit, who is likely unfamiliar with your personal history. Walk-in clinics are not meant to replace primary care, but instead they act as a supplement to provide non-urgent, timely care.
What kind of issues can be addressed on a walk-in basis?
Walk-in clinics generally provide routine and non-urgent medical care. Some examples of medical concerns that can be addressed on a walk-in basis include:
- Cold and flu symptoms
- Rashes and insect bites
- Seasonal allergies and minor allergic reactions
- Minor infections
- General questions regarding your health
- Refills for stable medications
What is telehealth, telemedicine, or virtual care?
Telehealth, telemedicine, and virtual care all essentially mean the same thing. They refer to medical care which is delivered through technology such as your phone or computer. These visits are with licensed medical professionals such as doctors and are usually conducted via video or phone call. Not all issues are appropriate for virtual care and consequently, it does not serve as a replacement to longitudinal care or in-person assessments.
Where can I find telehealth or telemedicine services in BC?
Right here! Walk In’s team of Canadian licensed physicians can help diagnose, treat, and manage your concern. For a full list of our services, make sure you visit our Services page.
Why should you choose telehealth visits on Walk In?
Many of the issues which are usually seen in traditional walk-in clinics can be managed on Walk In. These visits can be done in the comfort and privacy of your own home, via phone or video, and are with Canadian licensed primary care providers.
Our virtual platform allows you to get episodic medical attention as needed. It has several other advantages, including:
- Increased health care accessibility (especially to those with limited mobility, time, or transportation options)
- Easier and quicker access to medical care
- Provision of patient centred services
Keep in mind that virtual visits do not act as a substitute for in-person assessments or care. Not every medical issue can be addressed virtually, therefore in-person appointments or assessments may still be necessary.
When should I go to an emergency department?
Although emergency departments can have wait times, these visits are necessary in urgent and life-threatening situations. You would be triaged according to how unwell you are once there, so you may not have to wait. You should go to the emergency room when you need serious medical attention that is beyond what a walk-in clinic, your family physician, or an urgent care centre can handle. This can include, but is not limited to conditions such as:
- Chest pain and/or palpitations
- Worsening abdominal pain
- Head injuries
- Broken bones
- Numbness, weakness, dizziness, or neurological changes in your body
- Sudden changes in vision or eye pain
- Sudden leg swelling
- Any concern that you feel warrants emergent attention
Please note that if you need emergency care, call 911 or visit your local emergency department. You should not use telehealth services for medical emergencies.
Walk In does not provide medical advice. The contents of this website, including text, graphics, images and any other material are intended for informational and educational purposes only and are not intended to substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.