Winnipeg

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Health Services

Access to public healthcare, walk-in clinics, hospitals, and health insurance information provided for residents and newcomers.

Sections

1. Hospitals in Winnipeg

Winnipeg is home to several major hospitals that provide a wide range of healthcare services, including emergency care, specialized treatments, and surgeries.

Key Hospitals:

  • Health Sciences Centre (HSC):

    • The largest hospital in Manitoba, offering specialized services such as trauma care, pediatrics, and cancer treatment.
    • Location: 820 Sherbrook Street, Winnipeg, MB.
    • Emergency Department: Open 24/7.

  • St. Boniface Hospital:

    • Known for its cardiac care, mental health services, and maternity ward.
    • Location: 409 Tachรฉ Avenue, Winnipeg, MB.
    • Emergency Department: Open 24/7.

  • Grace Hospital:

    • Offers general medical services, surgery, and emergency care.
    • Location: 300 Booth Drive, Winnipeg, MB.
    • Emergency Department: Open 24/7.

  • Concordia Hospital:

    • Specializes in orthopedic surgery and rehabilitation.
    • Location: 1095 Concordia Avenue, Winnipeg, MB.
    • Emergency Department: Open 24/7.

  • Seven Oaks General Hospital:

    • Focuses on kidney health, rehabilitation, and general medical care.
    • Location: 2300 McPhillips Street, Winnipeg, MB.
    • Emergency Department: Open 24/7.

Costs:

  • Healthcare services in hospitals are covered for residents with a Manitoba Health card (provincial health insurance).
  • Non-residents or those without insurance may incur significant costs. Emergency visits can cost upwards of CAD 1,000.

Tips:

  • Always carry your Manitoba Health card for identification.
  • For non-emergency issues, consider visiting a walk-in clinic to avoid long wait times in emergency departments.

2. Walk-In Clinics

Walk-in clinics are ideal for non-urgent medical issues, such as minor injuries, infections, or prescription refills.

Popular Walk-In Clinics:

  • Minor Illness and Injury Clinics (Connected Care Clinics):

    • These clinics are part of the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority (WRHA) and provide care for minor health concerns.
    • Locations vary; check the WRHA website for the nearest clinic.

  • Family Doctor Finder Clinics:

    • If you donโ€™t have a family doctor, you can visit these clinics for temporary care while being matched with a permanent physician.

Costs:

  • Free for residents with a Manitoba Health card.
  • Non-residents may need to pay out-of-pocket (consultation fees range from CAD 50โ€“150).

Tips:

  • Check wait times online using platforms like Medimap (www.medimap.ca).
  • Bring a list of medications and any relevant medical history.

3. Mental Health Resources

Winnipeg offers a variety of mental health services, ranging from crisis intervention to long-term therapy.

Key Resources:

  • Klinic Community Health:

    • Provides free counseling, crisis support, and mental health services.
    • Location: 870 Portage Avenue, Winnipeg, MB.
    • Crisis Line: 204-786-8686 (24/7).

  • Manitoba Adolescent Treatment Centre (MATC):

    • Specializes in mental health services for children and youth.
    • Referral required from a healthcare provider.

  • Crisis Response Centre (CRC):

    • Offers immediate mental health crisis support for adults.
    • Location: 817 Bannatyne Avenue, Winnipeg, MB.
    • Open 24/7.

  • Wellness Together Canada:

    • A free, government-funded online platform offering mental health resources, counseling, and self-help tools.

Costs:

  • Most services are free with a Manitoba Health card.
  • Private therapy sessions (not covered by public health insurance) typically cost CAD 100โ€“200 per hour.

Tips:

  • For immediate help, call the Manitoba Suicide Prevention & Support Line at 1-877-435-7170.
  • Many employers offer Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) that include free counseling sessions.

4. Emergency Services

Emergency medical services (EMS) in Winnipeg are provided by the Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service (WFPS).

How to Access:

  • Dial 911 for life-threatening emergencies.
  • Ambulance services are available 24/7.

Costs:

  • Ambulance rides are not fully covered by Manitoba Health. Residents typically pay a fee of CAD 250โ€“500, depending on the distance and services provided.
  • Some private insurance plans may cover ambulance fees.

Tips:

  • If possible, use a private vehicle or taxi for non-critical emergencies to avoid ambulance fees.
  • Always provide clear details about the emergency when calling 911.

5. Family Physicians

Having a family doctor ensures continuity of care for ongoing health concerns.

How to Find a Family Doctor:

  • Use the Family Doctor Finder program:
    • Call 204-786-7111 or visit the Manitoba Health website to register.
    • You will be matched with a physician accepting new patients.

Costs:

  • Visits to family doctors are free for residents with a Manitoba Health card.

Tips:

  • Register early, as wait times to be matched with a doctor can vary.
  • If youโ€™re new to Canada, bring your immunization records and medical history to your first appointment.

6. Public Health Programs

Winnipeg offers several public health initiatives aimed at promoting wellness and preventing illness.

Key Programs:

  • Immunization Services:

    • Free vaccines for children and adults are available through public health clinics and family doctors.
    • Check the Manitoba Health website for the immunization schedule.

  • Healthy Baby Program:

    • Provides prenatal and postnatal support for expectant mothers and new parents.
    • Includes free milk coupons and parenting classes.

  • Chronic Disease Management:

    • Programs for managing diabetes, heart disease, and other chronic conditions are available through WRHA.

  • Sexual Health Services:

    • Klinic Community Health and Nine Circles Community Health Centre offer free STI testing, contraception, and sexual health education.

Costs:

  • Most public health programs are free for residents with a Manitoba Health card.

Tips:

  • Stay updated on free flu shot clinics, typically offered in the fall.
  • For newcomers, attend orientation sessions to learn about available public health resources.

7. Procedures for Accessing Health Services

For Residents:

  1. Apply for a Manitoba Health card as soon as you arrive in the province.
    • Visit the Manitoba Health website or a local office to apply.
    • Processing time: 4โ€“6 weeks.
  2. Carry your health card to all medical appointments.

For Non-Residents or Visitors:

  • Purchase private health insurance before arriving in Canada.
  • Pay out-of-pocket for services and submit claims to your insurer.

8. Local Considerations and Tips

  • Language Support: Many healthcare facilities offer interpretation services for non-English speakers. Request this service in advance if needed.
  • Pharmacies: Pharmacies like Shoppers Drug Mart and Rexall are widely available for prescription refills and over-the-counter medications.
  • Cultural Sensitivity: Winnipeg is a multicultural city, and healthcare providers are trained to respect diverse cultural and religious practices.
  • Indigenous Health Services: Specialized programs are available for Indigenous residents, including traditional healing practices and culturally sensitive care.

By understanding and utilizing these resources, residents and newcomers to Winnipeg can navigate the healthcare system with confidence. If you have specific questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask!