We know your health can sometimes be confusing that is why we are here to help.
See some of your frequently asked questions listed below.
Do you take appointments as well as walk-ins?
Yes! While it’s true there is no appointment necessary in many cases, many of our doctors specialize in family medicine as well as episodic care. If you are in need of a family doctor, please let us know and we can find one to best suit you.
Typically, how long is the wait?
Wait times can vary from day to day, hour to hour. We now post our estimated wait times online and they are updated every 15 minutes. You can also check the clinic hours for the day, along with the doctor schedules. Click here to see current wait times.
The doctor sent me for tests, what happens now?
Once you’ve had the tests completed, in most cases it can take between 2-5 business days to receive your results. In certain cases, tests may take longer than a week. If the doctor feels you need to return to the clinic for a follow up, you will receive a phone call. If, after reviewing your tests, the doctor concludes that there is no need for you to return to the clinic, you will not receive a call. If you are still experiencing symptoms or are curious about your results, please call us to book a follow up appointment with your doctor.
Will you give test results over the phone?
No. When it comes to the privacy of our patients, Medicentres will not compromise our commitment as gatekeepers of your information. For your convenience, you can visit any one of our clinics and see any of our doctors to review your test results or call us to book a follow up appointment.
My doctor is sending me to a specialist or for an MRI/CT scan. How long will I have to wait for an appointment?
Wait times for appointments vary by specialty and can range greatly for certain elective procedures. Our medical and administrative team will do their utmost to find you the best option for a specialist with the shortest wait time. Most specialists book appointments based on urgency rather than a first-come-first-serve basis. If you have questions regarding wait times by specialty, please contact or visit us for more information.
Does Medicentres have their own specialists?
Yes. We have our own specialists working at our clinics. If you have any questions about our specialty services, please find out more by clicking here, ask your doctor or speak to one of our reception staff.
I haven't heard anything about my referral. How do I find out what the status is?
Many specialist offices will only contact the patient when the appointment is ready to be booked. We cannot provide any updates over the phone but if you have any immediate concerns regarding the status of your referral, you may visit any Medicentres location to obtain an update. If your symptoms persist or worsen, you may also contact us to arrange a visit with your doctor.
All I need is my prescription refilled. Do I have to wait?
Not necessarily. Our Fastrack Program is also available in the evenings and on weekends! The Fastrack Program is for routine visits such as: prescription refills, bladder infections, injections, wart treatment, eye infections, ear pain, minor strains/sprains, minor cuts and bruises, stitch removal, and travel consultations/immunizations. Speak to our reception staff or call us so that we may determine your eligibility and book an appointment!
I've been here before; do I have to bring my Alberta Health Care Card?
Yes. The validity of your insurance must be verified on every visit. You must be registered with the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan in order to receive publicly funded health care coverage. If you do not have your Alberta Health Care Card, but can obtain the number, our staff will ask for photo identification and validate the information with Alberta Health. This process is done to ensure that we have the correct person and the Alberta Health Care number provided is valid. This process also helps to prevent identity theft and fraud.
If you are unable to provide an Alberta Health Care number and Photo Identification, or the number cannot be validated, you may be required to pay for your visit, as well as any outstanding invoices.
To obtain a replacement card, contact Alberta Health at 780 427-1432 or visit a participating registry.
What is an annual physical and why do I need one?
An annual physical is a complete physical exam that can include blood work, checking your height, weight and blood pressure. For women, a pap test may be done, and for men of a certain age, a prostate exam. Yearly check-ups are an important part of preventative care, especially for people with certain risk factors. If you have questions about risk factors, or have concerns about your health, please ask your doctor.
I have a family doctor, but I would like to see a female doctor for an exam. Do you have female doctors who do this?
Yes. We have Women’s Health Clinics throughout Calgary and Edmonton. You can book an appointment with a female doctor to discuss women’s health concerns, or have a routine female exam. Click here to view our gynecologist page. To book with one of our female family physicians or gynecologists call us or ask our reception staff about locations and bookings.
If I am concerned about my illness or how I am feeling, is there a physician I can speak to after the clinic is closed?
If you require immediate medical attention, please call 911 or visit your nearest hospital emergency department. Medicentres does not provide emergency care. If you feel that your health concern is serious, but not an emergency; or have concerns regarding your health, please contact the Health Link line.
Canada-wide toll-free number: 1-866-408-5465
If you are a regular patient at Medicentres, you can contact the after hours on-call service for further information.
In Edmonton, please call 780-489-7246
In Calgary, please call 403-266-0421