What to have ready for the call.
Note when symptoms began, whether they are improving or worsening, any measured temperature, breathing or chest symptoms, relevant health conditions, current medicines, and concerns you want to discuss.
A callback request gives the clinic a starting point to review the concern. Diagnosis, prescriptions, referrals, laboratory requisitions, documents, payment, and next steps depend on that review; another setting may be recommended.
When an examination, testing, or another setting may be needed.
This guide cannot decide whether it is safe to wait or which care setting is right for an individual concern. Some concerns need an in-person examination, testing, or another setting. If you are unsure where to go, contact an appropriate in-person healthcare professional or care setting for individual guidance. Use prompt in-person care if you are concerned about worsening symptoms.
Know when not to wait.
Call 911 or seek emergency care for severe trouble breathing, chest pain, confusion, blue or grey lips, or another possible emergency.
Virtual care is not appropriate for every concern. If your symptoms are severe, rapidly worsening, or may be an emergency, use emergency services or immediate in-person care instead of waiting for a callback.
Common questions about cold and flu symptoms.
Can I ask an online doctor about cold or flu symptoms in Alberta?
For a respiratory concern, an online request can help the clinic review the symptoms and decide whether a virtual conversation or another care setting may fit. It does not identify the cause of symptoms or guarantee a virtual visit.
Where can I find current Alberta respiratory-illness information?
For current provincial respiratory-illness information, use Alberta.ca. It does not assess your symptoms or replace appropriate in-person care, urgent care, or emergency care.
What details are useful to prepare?
A short timeline, any measured temperature, changes in symptoms, relevant health conditions, medicines, and questions you want answered can make a clinical conversation more useful.
When should I seek in-person guidance instead of sending an online request for cold or flu symptoms?
Call an appropriate in-person healthcare professional or care setting when you are unsure which Alberta care setting fits or whether symptoms need prompt assessment. Call 911 or seek emergency care for severe trouble breathing, chest pain or pressure, confusion, blue or grey lips, or another possible emergency.
Non-emergency request
Request a doctor call today.
For people physically in Alberta with a valid Alberta Health Care card. For requests submitted during open hours, the clinic reviews the request and contacts you about the next step. AlbertaMD operates daily from 8:00am to 10:00pm Mountain Time. For a possible emergency, call 911 rather than waiting for an online request. If your concern cannot wait, use appropriate in-person care; call 911 for a possible emergency.