I’m Sick — What Should I Do?
Take a deep breath. Most health issues can be handled safely and quickly once you know where to start.
Feeling sick and unsure where to go? This guide explains your options in Montreal and helps you choose the right level of care.
Step 1: Is It an Emergency?
Call 911 or go to the nearest Emergency Room (ER) immediately if you have:
- Difficulty breathing or chest pain
- Severe injury or heavy bleeding
- Loss of consciousness
- Signs of a stroke (FACE: drooping, speech, weakness)
- Very high fever with confusion
- Severe allergic reaction
Step 2: If It’s Not an Emergency
If your symptoms are uncomfortable but not life-threatening — such as:
- Fever, Flu, or Cold symptoms
- Sore throat or Ear infection
- Urinary tract infection (UTI)
- Stomach pain or vomiting
- Minor skin infections or rashes
- Sprains or mild injuries
Choose one of the options below to find the right care.
See all your options below
See all your options below
Walk-In Clinics (GMF Clinics)
Walk-in clinics (GMFs) are your main resource for non-emergency medical issues that require a doctor. In Montreal, the process is digital and time-sensitive.
The Booking Process
Coverage & Billing
Most clinics no longer accept random walk-ins. You must book a same-day appointment online. Slots usually open between 7:00 and 8:00 AM and fill up almost instantly. Be ready early and check multiple clinics to secure your visit.
If you are covered by RAMQ, costs are usually handled directly. International students should be prepared to pay upfront for services. Be sure to request a detailed receipt for insurance reimbursement and contact the clinic beforehand to confirm coverage.
Clinic Name
Description
Website
ELNA Medical
Large medical clinic network offering general medical care, urgent care appointments, and on-site laboratory services at several downtown locations (appointment booking usually required).
UnionMD
Private medical clinic offering same-day appointments, general consultations, and specialist referrals (fees may apply).
Clinique Médicale Crescent
General practice clinic in downtown Montreal providing routine and urgent care services.
Clinique Médicale 360
Walk-in style clinic offering medical consultations and minor urgent care.
CLSC Métro
Public community health centre offering primary care and public health services (appointment required; RAMQ covered).
Village Doctor (Clinique d’Urgence)
Urgent care clinic offering same-day consultations for non-life-threatening conditions.
Campus Health Services
Most Montreal universities provide on-campus health services designed specifically for students. These clinics are often the simplest and most accessible way to receive medical care while studying.
Campus health services typically:
- Understand student insurance plans
- Offer appointments tailored to academic schedules
- Provide referrals within the Quebec healthcare system
- Offer both medical and mental health support
For routine medical concerns, campus clinics are often the best first step.
McGill University – Student Wellness Hub
Overview
The McGill Student Wellness Hub is the university’s integrated health and wellness centre. It combines medical services, mental health support, and wellness resources in one location, designed for coordinated care.
Services Include
- Medical appointments
- STI testing & sexual health
- Laboratory services
- Mental health counselling
- Dietitian services
- Access advisors & referrals
Booking Information
Concordia University – Health Services Clinic
Overview
Concordia’s clinic provides medical care at both Sir George Williams and Loyola campuses. It functions as a primary healthcare point for Concordia students paying service fees.
Services Include
- General medical appointments
- Nurse consultations
- STI testing & vaccinations
- Prescription services
- Referrals to specialists
Booking Information
Appointments are booked by phone.
SGW: 514-848-2424 ext. 3565. Loyola: 514-848-2424 ext. 3575. Website: concordia.ca/health/clinic.html
UQAM – Health & Psychological Services
Overview
UQAM students access healthcare through student insurance and community clinics. UQAM provides strong support in mental health services and insurance guidance.
Services Include
- Psychological counselling
- Mental health support
- Insurance information
- Referrals to external providers
More Information
Appointments for health and psychological support are usually scheduled by phone or email.
Phone: 514-987-3185
Email: services-conseils@uqam.ca
Important Notes for All Students
- Bring your student ID and insurance information to appointments.
- Confirm coverage before booking.
- Some services may require upfront payment if you do not have RAMQ.
- Campus health services are often the easiest starting point for non-emergency care.
If you are unsure where to begin, call 811 (Info-Santé) for guidance.
Telehealth (Online Doctor Visits)
Some insurance plans include access to virtual medical consultations. Telehealth allows you to speak to a doctor or nurse online (by video or phone), which can be faster than finding an in-person clinic appointment.
Many student insurance plans include access to specific virtual care platforms. Always check which services are covered under your university insurance plan before booking.
Common Virtual Care Platforms
What It’s Good For
Dialogue
- Often included in employer or university insurance plans
- Connect with healthcare professionals through chat, phone, or video
- May include mental health support depending on coverage
Maple
- 24/7 online doctor visits
- Prescriptions and medical notes available
- May require payment if not covered by insurance
TELUS Health MyCare
- Video appointments with doctors or nurse practitioners
- Prescriptions and referrals available
- Coverage varies by province and insurance plan
Tia Health
- Virtual appointments with licensed providers
- Prescriptions and referrals available
- Coverage depends on your insurance
Pharmacies
Pharmacists in Quebec have expanded medical authority. They can do much more than fill prescriptions. They are highly trained medical professionals who can provide immediate guidance and treatment for common health issues without the need for a clinic appointment.
- Prescribe treatment for certain minor infections (e.g., UTIs)
- Renew expired prescriptions and adjust doses
- Administer vaccines and flu shots
- Provide emergency contraception
- Offer expert medical advice on medication and symptoms
When to Choose a Pharmacy: If your issue is mild, common, or medication-related. Pharmacies are often the fastest and simplest first step for non-emergency care.
If You Do Not Have RAMQ
If you are an international student or not covered by Quebec’s public insurance (RAMQ):
- You may need to pay for appointments upfront.
- Keep all receipts.
- Submit claims to your private insurance provider.
Always check your insurance coverage before booking.
Not Sure Where to Start?
Call 811 (Info-Santé). It’s free, available 24/7, and nurses can guide you on what to do next.
You are not expected to know the system perfectly. That’s why this guide exists.