What is a Walk-in Clinic, and how can I use it?

Calgary has a large number of walk-in clinics, which are clinics where you can go without an appointment. They are very helpful when you cannot get to your family doctor or when you need to resolve a problem quickly, but it is not a critical situation.

What are walk-in clinics for?

They can help in the following cases:

  • colds, flu, sore throat, minor infections
  • minor injuries — sprains, burns, cuts
  • preventive checkups, vaccinations (flu, COVID-19)
  • prescription refills, basic tests

But it is important: if the situation is life-threatening (heart attack, serious injury, etc.), contact Urgent Care immediately or call 911.

How do these clinics work?

They are usually open every day. For example:

  • Signature Medical Centre: 8:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on weekdays and 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Saturdays.
  • South Calgary Medical Clinic: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on weekdays.

Some clinics allow you to make an appointment online or check wait times. For example:

  • Medimap — shows how many people are currently waiting in line.
  • Some clinics' websites allow you to book an appointment.

Popular Walk-in Clinics in Calgary

  • Signature Medical Centre (Signal Hill)
  • South Calgary Medical Clinic (Sunpark Plaza)
  • Downtown Medical Clinic (6 Ave SW)
  • Forest Lane Medical Clinic (17 Ave SE)
  • Shawnessy Medical Clinic (Macleod Trail SW)

What to bring to your appointment

  • Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) card
  • Passport or driver's license
  • For refugees — temporary PHN or proof of low income
  • List of medications you are taking
  • If available — previous test results

For those with AHCIP — services are free. Without insurance — a consultation costs approximately $60 CAD.

Helpful tips

  • Come in the morning — there are fewer people then.
  • Try not to come in the evening — the lines are usually longest after 5:00 p.m.
  • You can try online consultations through Telus Health MyCare or other services.
  • If you have cold symptoms, some clinics may ask you to wear a mask.

For those experiencing financial difficulties

  • There is a Community Pass program for discounts.
  • Refugees can get help at The Alex Community Health Centre, even if they don't have insurance yet.

How the visit goes

  1. Fill out a short questionnaire.
  2. Wait 20–40 minutes on average.
  3. The doctor will examine you and prescribe treatment or refer you to a specialist.

Summary

Walk-in Clinics in Calgary are a real help in everyday situations. The main thing is to check the schedule, prepare your documents in advance, and don't be afraid to reach out when you need it. It's convenient, fast, and often saves the day.