What to have ready for the call.
Record when the headache began, where it is located, how it has changed, associated symptoms, any head injury or activity trigger, previous headache patterns, and medicines already taken.
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 a sudden severe headache, new weakness or confusion, fainting, seizure, severe neck stiffness, 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 headache.
Can I ask an online doctor about a headache in Alberta?
For a health 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 a headache type or guarantee a virtual visit.
What should I track before a headache review?
Note when the headache began, where it is felt, how it has changed, associated symptoms, previous headache patterns, and medicines already taken. A simple record can make the conversation clearer.
Can an online request identify a headache type?
No. Headaches can have many patterns and causes. The clinic reviews the concern and may decide that in-person assessment or urgent care is the safer next step.
Where can I find official Alberta headache information?
MyHealth Alberta provides current public headache and migraine information. It does not diagnose a headache type or replace individual assessment. If you are unsure where to seek advice, contact an appropriate in-person healthcare professional or care setting for individual guidance, and use emergency care for possible emergencies.
How do I know whether a virtual request is the right starting point for a headache?
For a possible emergency—such as a sudden severe headache, new weakness, confusion, seizure, fainting, or severe neck stiffness—call 911 or seek emergency care rather than submitting a request. If you are uncertain, call an appropriate in-person healthcare professional or care setting; otherwise, the clinic reviews the information and decides whether a virtual conversation or another setting may fit.
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.