New clinic focused on treating cold, flu, and respiratory illnesses to help ease pressure on hospital emergency departments
In response to the anticipated increase in respiratory illnesses in our region, the North Simcoe Family Health Team (NSFHT), in partnership with the North Simcoe Ontario Health Team (NSOHT) is pleased to announce the opening of the North Simcoe Care Clinic (NSCC) on October 30, 2023. The clinic’s primary objective is to alleviate strain on hospital emergency departments and offer a convenient and accessible care option for the North Simcoe community. The clinic will provide assessment, testing, and treatment, by appointment, for individuals experiencing symptoms of cold, flu, or other respiratory issues.
“Given the projected surge in respiratory viruses within our region, we anticipate a challenging cold and flu season for many residents in North Simcoe, said Andrew Shantz, Executive Director of the North Simcoe Family Health Team. “We found that this clinic played a pivotal role last year in relieving pressure on our local hospital emergency department while ensuring accessible care for members of our community, particularly those without a primary care provider.”
Consider visiting the Care Clinic if:
You are experiencing symptoms like cough, fever, shortness of breath, sore throat, or sinus congestion.
Your symptoms, or those of your child, are worsening or not improving, and you believe medical care is necessary.
You do not have a primary care provider or cannot access them in a timely manner.
Patients are encouraged to visit their primary care provider first if they are unwell and in need of medical care. The North Simcoe Care Clinic does not accept walk-ins. Only individuals displaying symptoms of cold, flu, or other respiratory conditions will be scheduled for an appointment. Further details can be found on the NSFHT website (www.nsfht.ca).
The Care Clinic will open on October 30, 2023, and will operate from Monday to Friday at 619 Prospect Blvd Suite 2 in Midland. Same-day or next-day appointments are required and can be booked through the NSFHT website or by calling 705-526-7804 ext. 253.
Additional Resources
Patients may also explore the following options:
Health811 - For advice from a nurse, available 24/7 by calling 811 or by online chat at ontario.ca/HealthConnectOntario.
Health Care Connect - Assisting Ontarians without a family health care provider in finding one.
Central Region Virtual Urgent Clare Clinic – Providing free virtual appointments with a nurse practitioner for anyone living in Central Ontario (including North Simcoe).
RocketDoctor – A partnership with Georgian Bay General Hospital that offers free, virtual appointments with a doctor.
If you or your child develop severe symptoms, please call 911 or visit the nearest emergency department.
About the North Simcoe Ontario Health Team
The North Simcoe Ontario Health Team (NSOHT) is a collaboration of health and social service providers who plan and work together, as one coordinated team, to provide integrated services and supports to meet the health needs of the North Simcoe community. The NSOHT is comprised of four core organizations, inclusive of Centre de santé communautaire Chigamik Community Health Centre, Georgian Bay General Hospital, the North Simcoe Family Health Team and Wendat Community Programs. The NSOHT team members collaborate with patients, families, caregivers and the community to co-design the best possible care for our region.
About the North Simcoe Family Health Team
The North Simcoe Family Health Team (NSFHT) is one of 200 Family Health Teams that were created as part of the Ontario government’s plan to reduce wait times and improve access to quality health care for Ontario residents. Since opening its doors in 2007, the NSFHT has strived to enhance the care that is provided to patients and families within our community by offering a variety of programs and services that support healthy living and overall wellness.