What to have ready for the call.
Be ready to describe when symptoms began, how they have changed, associated symptoms, recent travel or health events, current medicines, relevant health conditions, and whether fluids stay down.
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.
Seek emergency help for loss of consciousness or mostly bloody or maroon stools. Seek immediate medical care for possible dehydration, black or blood-streaked stools, worsening belly pain, a new or higher fever, or inability to keep fluids down.
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 diarrhea.
Can I ask an online doctor about diarrhea in Alberta?
For a bowel concern, an online request can help the clinic review the information and decide whether a virtual conversation or another care setting may fit. It does not identify the cause of diarrhea or guarantee a virtual visit.
What should I track before discussing diarrhea?
A timeline, changes in symptoms, recent travel or health events, medicines, relevant conditions, and whether fluids stay down can help a clinician understand the concern.
When should I avoid waiting for an online request?
Do not wait for a callback if there may be dehydration, black or bloody stools, worsening belly pain, fever, inability to keep fluids down, or another possible emergency.
Where can I find official Alberta diarrhea information?
MyHealth Alberta provides current public information about diarrhea. It does not identify the cause of an individual concern or replace an appropriate clinical assessment.
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.