What Does OHIP Cover?

What is OHIP

The Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) is the public health insurance program for Ontario residents. OHIP pays for many of the health services you receive when you visit a doctor, hospital, or other approved provider. The goal of OHIP is to ensure that medically necessary care is available to residents without direct cost at the time of treatment. When you present your health card at a clinic, hospital, or pharmacy for an eligible service, the government pays the provider directly.

See also: How to Register for a Health Card in Ontario

How Do You Access OHIP?

You access OHIP by applying through ServiceOntario and receiving a photo health card. This card confirms your eligibility and must be shown whenever you use covered health services. You should carry it with you when you visit a doctor, hospital, walk-in clinic, or lab. OHIP is not automatic—residents need to apply and update their information if they move or change status. Renewals happen every five years, and you must keep your address and personal information current to avoid losing coverage.

Who Is Eligible for OHIP?

Eligibility for OHIP depends on your legal status and residence in Ontario. You are eligible if you are a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or certain categories of temporary resident who makes Ontario your primary home. You must be physically present in Ontario for at least 153 days in a 12-month period and make Ontario your main place of residence. New residents often wait three months before coverage begins, although some exceptions exist. If you are an international student, temporary foreign worker, or refugee claimant, you may or may not qualify, depending on your specific circumstances.

What Does OHIP Cover in Ontario?

OHIP covers a wide range of medically necessary services. Coverage is grouped into categories such as physician services, hospital care, diagnostics, and specific procedures. These services are available whether you visit a family doctor, a walk-in clinic, or an emergency department, provided the care is medically necessary.

Physician and clinic services

• Visits to family doctors, walk-in clinics, and other general practitioners for medically necessary reasons
• Telehealth and virtual visits when medically required
• Referrals to specialists made by a primary care doctor or walk-in physician

Hospital services

• Emergency room visits, inpatient stays, and outpatient treatments
• Diagnostic tests like blood work, ultrasounds, and X-rays ordered by a doctor
• Standard ward hospital rooms, nursing services, and meals during admission

Laboratory and diagnostic services

• Blood tests, urine tests, and other lab work ordered by a physician or nurse practitioner
• Imaging such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs when medically necessary

Specific procedures and treatments

• Medically necessary surgeries, including certain dental surgeries done in hospitals
• Abortions, whether surgical or medication-based
• Eligible podiatry services for foot health, though coverage is limited
• Eye exams for people under 20, over 65, or adults with specific medical conditions such as diabetes, glaucoma, or cataracts
• Ambulance services when medically necessary and deemed urgent by a physician

These covered services demonstrate that OHIP focuses on medically required care. When you visit a walk-in clinic for an illness or injury, most assessments and necessary tests fall within OHIP coverage.

What Does OHIP NOT Cover?

OHIP does not cover all health services, especially those considered elective or outside the scope of medically necessary care. Understanding these gaps helps you plan for private insurance or out-of-pocket costs.

Dental care

• Routine cleanings, checkups, fillings, crowns, and dentures
• Dental procedures performed in a dentist’s office, unless the surgery requires hospital care

Vision care

• Eye exams for adults aged 20–64 without a qualifying medical condition
• Glasses, contact lenses, and laser eye surgery

Prescription drugs

• Medications prescribed outside of a hospital setting, unless you qualify for a specific drug program like OHIP+ (for children and youth), the Ontario Drug Benefit (for seniors), or assistance programs for low-income residents

Cosmetic and elective procedures

• Cosmetic surgery such as liposuction, botox, or procedures done solely for appearance
• Some forms of physiotherapy, chiropractic care, and massage therapy unless prescribed and performed in approved facilities

Hospital and other services

• Private or semi-private hospital rooms unless medically required
• Travel vaccinations, sick notes for work, and most forms requested by employers or insurance companies

These exclusions mean that even though OHIP provides broad coverage, you may face additional costs for routine or elective services. Walk-in clinics often charge for forms, travel medicine consultations, or procedures that fall outside OHIP.

What Happens If You Leave the Province?

If you leave Ontario temporarily, OHIP continues to cover you for short trips within Canada or abroad, but the coverage has limits. Within Canada, OHIP pays for doctor and hospital services at Ontario rates, but you may need to pay upfront and seek reimbursement. Outside Canada, OHIP pays very limited amounts, and private travel insurance is strongly recommended. For students studying elsewhere, workers on short-term contracts, or snowbirds, special rules may extend coverage for up to two years with proper paperwork. However, out-of-country care almost never covers the full cost, and many people choose supplemental insurance.

What If You’re Not Covered?

If you are not covered by OHIP, you are responsible for paying for medical services or obtaining private insurance. International students often buy health coverage through their schools. Refugee claimants may qualify for the Interim Federal Health Program, but its scope is narrower than OHIP. Some community health centres provide basic care regardless of coverage, but services are limited. For people without OHIP, walk-in clinics may still see you, but they will usually require payment upfront. Blood tests, X-rays, and prescriptions also carry additional costs if not covered.

Book a Same-Day Walk-in Clinic Appointment at Infinity Health

Walk-in clinics play an important role when you cannot see your family doctor. Infinity Health offers same-day walk-in appointments in Toronto and Oakville, providing access to physicians, diagnostic testing, and referrals. With OHIP, your visit is covered if the care is medically necessary. Without OHIP, you can still access services, but you should expect to pay out-of-pocket.

Infinity Health Locations

Toronto: 39 Lower Simcoe Street, Toronto, ON M5J 3A6

Oakville (Bronte Village): 2441 Lakeshore Rd W, Oakville, ON L6L 5V5

Book An Appointment Today

by Dr. Riskallah

Health Care Options in Ontario Explained - A Full Guide

Ontario offers a wide network of healthcare services that give residents different ways to get medical care when they need it. The system includes family doctors, walk-in clinics, urgent care centres, pharmacies, emergency rooms, and more. Choosing the right option depends on the seriousness of your condition and whether you need ongoing care or immediate treatment. Knowing how each service works helps you make faster, safer choices about where to go when you or your family need help.

In this article, we will cover:

1. Pharmacies
2. Family Doctors
3. Walk-in Clinics
4. Urgent Care Centres
5. The Emergency Room
6. Telehealth Ontario
7. Mental Health Support Lines
8. Private, Community-Based Clinics
9. Medical Testing Laboratories
10. Public Health Units
11. Getting Healthcare After Hours in Ontario

1. Pharmacies

Pharmacies in Ontario are an accessible first stop for many minor health needs. They are staffed by licensed pharmacists who can both dispense prescriptions and provide medical advice. Pharmacists in Ontario are authorized to diagnose and prescribe treatments for a wide range of minor ailments, which makes them a convenient alternative when you want quick treatment for simple problems.

You can go to a pharmacy for:

• prescription refills
• questions about side effects or interactions between medications
• advice on over-the-counter medications for colds, headaches, or stomach issues
• vaccinations such as flu shots or COVID-19 boosters
• help with smoking cessation programs
• a medication review to ensure your prescriptions are safe and effective

What Can Pharmacists in Ontario Diagnose?

According to the Ontario College of Pharmacists, pharmacists are trained to diagnose and treat the following minor ailments:

• Acne
• Allergic rhinitis
• Aphthous ulcers (canker sores)
• Candidal stomatitis (oral thrush)
• Conjunctivitis (bacterial, allergic, and viral)
• Dermatitis (atopic, eczema, allergic, and contact)
• Diaper dermatitis
• Dysmenorrhea
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• Hemorrhoids
• Herpes labialis (cold sores)
• Impetigo
• Insect bites and urticaria (hives)
• Tick bites, post-exposure prophylaxis to prevent Lyme disease
• Musculoskeletal sprains and strains
• Nausea and vomiting of pregnancy
• Pinworms and threadworms
• Urinary tract infections (uncomplicated)
• Vulvovaginal candidiasis (yeast infection)

What Can Pharmacists in Ontario Prescribe?

Pharmacists in Ontario can prescribe medications for the above ailments, including certain drug classes and specified drugs. For the complete list of what pharmacists can prescribe, see the Minor Ailments – Drug Classes and Specified Drugs resource.

2. Family Doctors

Family doctors are the cornerstone of healthcare in Ontario because they provide long-term, continuous care. A family doctor manages both minor illnesses and chronic conditions, giving you a consistent medical record and an ongoing relationship with a single physician. They also coordinate referrals to specialists such as endocrinologists, cardiologists, or dermatologists when you need advanced care.

See also: Finding a Family Doctor in Ontario

You can go to a family doctor for:

• continuity of care for chronic conditions (for example diabetes or hypertension)
• preventive care such as checkups, screenings, and immunizations
• referrals to specialists or medical testing laboratories
• support for mental health concerns or long-term treatment planning
• guidance for managing multiple prescriptions or complex medical needs

Having a family doctor means you gain an advocate in the healthcare system. This connection helps ensure better follow-up, easier access to referrals, and more complete oversight of your health.

Family Doctors vs Family Health Teams

There are two kinds of family doctors in Ontario: those who practice independently and those who work as part of a Family Health Team. For patients, the difference is not always obvious, since both types of doctors provide ongoing care, manage chronic conditions, and make referrals when needed. Still, there are a few details that are useful to clarify.

Family Health Teams do not allow their patients to visit walk-in clinics. This restriction exists because of how funding and pay structures are set up. Each team receives money to cover the care of rostered patients, so care is expected to remain within the team. If patients go outside to a walk-in clinic, the payment model penalizes the team, discouraging care outside their system.

Instead of relying on walk-in clinics, Family Health Teams are required to arrange after-hours care within the team itself. This might include evening clinics, on-call physicians, or nurse-led appointments, ensuring that patients still have access to urgent but non-emergency care when their regular doctor is not available.

Another difference is that Family Health Teams include a wider range of health professionals under one roof. These typically include:

• a team of family physicians
• nurse practitioners
• registered nurses
• social workers
• dietitians
• other professionals, such as psychologists, respiratory therapists, occupational therapists, or chiropodists

This structure gives patients access to more types of care in one place and promotes better communication among providers.

3. Walk-in Clinics

Walk-in clinics are designed for non-emergency situations where you need timely care but do not have access to your family doctor. They are staffed by general practitioners who can diagnose and treat minor illnesses and injuries, order basic tests, and provide prescriptions. Walk-in clinics fill an important gap in the healthcare system by serving people who do not have a family doctor or cannot get a same-day appointment.

You can go to a walk-in clinic for:

• minor cuts, abrasions, or sprains
• coughs, colds, sore throats, or flu-like symptoms
• ear infections or eye irritations such as pink eye
• simple skin conditions such as rashes or mild infections
• prescription refills when your family doctor is not available
• routine blood pressure checks or health guidance

Walk-in clinics are not set up for long-term management of chronic illnesses. If you have diabetes, heart disease, or another ongoing condition, they can provide temporary help, but you will still need a family doctor or specialist to manage your care over time.

4. Urgent Care Centres

Urgent care centres provide an intermediate option between a walk-in clinic and the emergency room. They are usually located within or close to hospitals and have extended hours, making them more accessible outside of standard clinic times. Urgent care centres are designed to treat serious but non-life-threatening conditions that require attention quickly but are not true emergencies.

You can go to an urgent care centre for:

• suspected broken bones or fractures
• injuries requiring stitches
• burns that are not life-threatening but need medical attention
• severe sprains, strains, or other musculoskeletal injuries
• significant cuts, abrasions, or infections that cannot be treated at a walk-in clinic

The advantage of urgent care centres is that they often have access to diagnostic tools like X-rays or laboratory services, which walk-in clinics may not. They are also less crowded than emergency rooms, so wait times are often shorter for non-emergency problems.

5. The Emergency Room

The emergency room is the right choice for life-threatening or very serious conditions. ERs are open 24 hours a day and are equipped with advanced diagnostic tools, specialists, and the ability to admit patients to the hospital if needed. Emergency departments prioritize patients based on the urgency of their condition, not on when they arrived, so someone with chest pain will be treated before someone with a sprained ankle.

See also: Should You Go to the Walk-In Clinic or to the Emergency Room?

You can go to the emergency room for:

• chest pain or signs of a heart attack
• difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• severe injuries, such as head trauma or major fractures
• uncontrolled bleeding
• sudden weakness, numbness, or signs of a stroke
• severe allergic reactions
• any condition that is life-threatening or expected to worsen within 72 hours

Using the ER for minor issues contributes to longer wait times and strains the system. Whenever possible, use a walk-in clinic or urgent care centre for non-emergency needs, and reserve the emergency department for true emergencies.

6. Telehealth Ontario

Telehealth Ontario is a free, confidential service that allows you to speak with a registered nurse over the phone. It is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and is a good option when you are unsure whether you need to see a doctor, go to a clinic, or visit the emergency room. Nurses use established protocols to assess your symptoms, provide advice, and recommend the most appropriate next step.

You can go to Telehealth Ontario for:

• health advice when you are not sure how serious your symptoms are
• guidance on whether you should go to a walk-in clinic, urgent care, or emergency room
• questions about medications or side effects
• advice about caring for a child or elderly family member with mild symptoms
• support for managing chronic conditions between medical visits

Telehealth does not replace in-person care. Nurses cannot diagnose conditions, prescribe medications, or order tests, but they can direct you to the right level of care and provide peace of mind when you are uncertain.

7. Mental Health Support Lines

Ontario offers several mental health support lines that connect you with trained counsellors or crisis workers. These services are available by phone or online and are designed to give immediate support when you or someone you know is struggling with mental health challenges. Some services are available 24/7, while others operate during extended hours.

You can go to mental health support lines for:

• speaking with a counsellor when you feel overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed
• crisis support if you or someone you know is at risk of self-harm
• guidance about community mental health programs and resources
• support in managing stress, grief, or difficult life changes

While these lines provide emotional support and referrals, they do not replace ongoing treatment from a family doctor, psychiatrist, or psychologist. If you are in immediate danger or at risk of harming yourself, the emergency room remains the safest option.

8. Private, Community-Based Clinics

Private, community-based clinics cover a broad range of health services that fall outside the traditional family doctor or hospital system. These clinics may be covered by OHIP for certain services, but many require private insurance or out-of-pocket payment. They often provide specialized care and shorter wait times compared to hospital-based services.

You can go to private, community-based clinics for:

• physiotherapy, chiropractic, or massage therapy
• optometry for eye exams or vision correction
• dentistry for oral health and dental procedures
• psychotherapy or counselling for mental health support
• naturopathy, acupuncture, or other complementary care

These clinics can be useful for targeted treatment or when you prefer faster access. However, not all services are covered under OHIP, so it is important to check costs and insurance coverage before booking care.

9. Medical Testing Laboratories

Medical testing laboratories in Ontario provide diagnostic services such as blood tests, urine tests, and imaging scans. These labs play a vital role in confirming diagnoses, monitoring chronic conditions, and supporting preventive care. Access to a lab usually requires a referral from a healthcare professional, although some testing can be ordered by non-physician providers such as naturopaths or chiropractors.

You can go to a medical testing laboratory for:

• blood work ordered by a doctor, nurse practitioner, or naturopath
• imaging such as X-rays or ultrasounds when referred by a healthcare provider
• lab testing to monitor chronic illnesses like diabetes or high cholesterol
• follow-up testing after hospital discharge or specialist care

Labs cannot provide direct medical advice. They perform tests, but your results are always reviewed and explained by the healthcare provider who ordered them.

10. Public Health Units

Public health units in Ontario are responsible for community-level health services and disease prevention. They provide programs and services that focus on protecting populations rather than treating individual illnesses. Public health units also partner with hospitals and primary care providers to ensure continuity of care after hospital discharge.

You can go to a public health unit for:

• vaccinations and immunization programs
• sexual health services, including STI testing and birth control
• information and support for new parents and child health programs
• nutrition counselling and community health programs
• services for managing outbreaks and promoting public health initiatives

Public health units also coordinate specialized programs such as stroke rehabilitation groups, physiotherapy programs, and chronic disease prevention efforts. Their work helps keep communities healthier while reducing the strain on hospitals and family doctors.

11. Getting Healthcare After Hours in Ontario

Accessing healthcare after regular office hours can be challenging, but Ontario has options designed to make care available when you need it. The best choice depends on the urgency of your condition.

You can go for after-hours care through:

• Family Health Teams, which must arrange evening or weekend availability for their rostered patients
• Urgent care centres, which extend their hours beyond typical clinic times to handle serious but non-emergency issues
• Emergency rooms, which operate 24/7 for life-threatening conditions or urgent problems that cannot wait
• Telehealth Ontario, which provides around-the-clock nurse advice at 1-866-797-0000

The right choice depends on your symptoms. For example, a sore throat or prescription refill may wait for the next day at your family doctor, while a suspected broken bone can be treated at an urgent care centre. Chest pain or severe shortness of breath should always be managed at the emergency room.

Book a Same-Day Walk-in Clinic Appointment at Infinity Health

Your time and well-being matter. That’s why Infinity Health keeps care simple, convenient, and compassionate. If you or your family need medical attention today, book a same-day appointment and let us support you on the path back to feeling better.

Infinity Health Locations

Toronto: 39 Lower Simcoe Street, Toronto, ON M5J 3A6

Oakville (Bronte Village): 2441 Lakeshore Rd W, Oakville, ON L6L 5V5

Book An Appointment Today

by Dr. Riskallah

Emergency Rooms in Toronto

If you or someone you know needs urgent medical attention, it’s important to know where to go for care and when to act quickly.

Know When to Call 911

Call 911 if you or someone nearby is experiencing severe chest pain, difficulty breathing, signs of a stroke (e.g., sudden numbness or weakness on one side), severe bleeding, or unconsciousness. Also call emergency services if the condition seems life-threatening or is worsening quickly.

For injuries or symptoms that are urgent but not life-threatening—such as fractures, severe cuts requiring stitches, or minor burns—you can drive yourself or have someone take you to the nearest emergency room.

Emergency Rooms in Toronto

Here are the emergency rooms in Toronto:

• Toronto General Hospital: 200 Elizabeth Street
• Mount Sinai Hospital: 600 University Avenue
• St. Michael’s Hospital: 30 Bond Street
• Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre: 55 Life Saving Dr (2075 Bayview Avenue)
• North York General Hospital: 4001 Leslie Street
• Michael Garron Hospital – 825 Coxwell Avenue
• St. Joseph’s Health Centre – 30 The Queensway

What to Expect at the Emergency Room

When you arrive at the emergency room, you will be assessed through a process called triage. This assessment prioritizes patients based on the severity of their symptoms, not the order of arrival. Depending on the urgency, you may be seen immediately or asked to wait. A nurse will document your vital signs and symptoms before directing you to the appropriate care pathway.

How Long Do You Have to Wait at the Emergency Room in Toronto?

Wait times can vary significantly depending on the time of day, the day of the week, and the severity of cases. Critical cases will always take priority, so if you arrive with a life-threatening condition, you will likely receive immediate care.

For non-urgent conditions, during off-peak hours, such as early mornings (6am-8am), you may be seen within 3 to 4 hours. During busier periods, particularly late afternoons, evenings, weekends and long weekends, wait times for non-critical issues can extend up to 12 hours or longer.

For Non-Emergencies, Book a Same-Day Appointment at PinPoint Infinity Health

For non-urgent situations like minor illnesses, injuries, or general consultations, you can book a convenient same-day appointment with PinPoint Infinity Health.

Our easy-to-use online booking system ensures that you can access timely care without waiting in a crowded emergency room.

Book a time with us today

by Dr. Riskallah

Where Can You Get a Tetanus Shot in Toronto?

What is Tetanus?

Tetanus, often known as lockjaw, is a serious bacterial infection caused by Clostridium tetani. This bacteria produces a toxin that affects the nervous system, leading to painful muscle contractions, particularly in the jaw and neck. In severe cases, it can cause breathing difficulties and even death. Fortunately, tetanus is preventable with timely vaccinations.

The bacteria typically enter the body through cuts, puncture wounds, or any injury involving broken skin. Common situations that can put you at risk include stepping on rusty nails, cuts from sharp objects, or bites from animals.

Where Can You Get Your Tetanus Shot?

Tetanus shots are available in a variety of settings, making it easy to find a location that suits your needs. Common places to get a tetanus shot include:

• Pharmacies: Many pharmacies provide walk-in vaccination services without the need for a doctor’s referral.
• Walk-in clinics: If you need a more flexible option, many walk-in clinics provide tetanus shots on a same-day basis.
• The emergency room: If you have suffered an injury, especially one involving deep punctures or contaminated wounds, the emergency room can provide immediate access to a tetanus shot to ensure you are protected without delay.
• Your family doctor: Most family doctors offer vaccinations during regular appointments.

When Should You Go for a Tetanus Shot?

The tetanus vaccine is typically included as part of routine immunizations during childhood, combined with vaccines for diphtheria and pertussis (whooping cough). However, booster shots are necessary to maintain protection over time. Here’s when you should consider getting a tetanus shot:

• Routine booster shots: Adults should get a tetanus booster shot every 10 years to stay protected.
• In case of injuries: If you suffer a puncture wound, deep cut, or any injury likely to be contaminated with dirt or rust, you should get a tetanus shot if your last booster was over 5 years ago. Ideally, you should go within 48 hours of the injury, but sooner is always better to ensure maximum protection

Get Your Tetanus Shot at PinPoint Infinity Health

PinPoint Infinity Health offers a hassle-free way to stay protected against tetanus. Whether you’re due for a routine booster or need immediate protection after an injury, PinPoint Infinity Health is here to help.

Our clinic is located at 39 Lower Simcoe St. in downtown Toronto and we provide convenient same-day appointments that you can easily book online.

Book your appointment today

by Dr. Riskallah

Can You Travel with Shingles?

Can You Travel If You Have Shingles?

Travelling is exciting, but health concerns like shingles can put a wrench in your plans. If you or someone you know is dealing with shingles, you may be wondering whether it’s safe to hop on a plane or hit the road. Here’s everything you need to know.

What is Shingles?

Shingles, or herpes zoster, is a viral infection caused by the same virus that triggers chickenpox—the varicella-zoster virus. Even after recovering from chickenpox, the virus can lie dormant in your nerve tissues for years and reactivate later as shingles. It typically presents as a painful rash, often with blisters that appear on one side of the body or face.

Symptoms may include:

• Pain, burning, or tingling before the rash develops
• Fluid-filled blisters
• Itching
• Sensitivity to touch
• Fatigue and fever (in some cases)

Shingles can be uncomfortable, but with proper care, most people recover without long-term complications.

Is Shingles Contagious?

Yes, but with some important distinctions. Shingles itself isn’t spread through casual contact. However, the virus inside the fluid-filled blisters can be transmitted to someone who has never had chickenpox or the chickenpox vaccine. If they contract the virus, they won’t develop shingles immediately but instead will get chickenpox.

Transmission occurs through:

• Direct contact with open blisters
• Contact with contaminated items (like towels or clothing)

You are not contagious before the rash appears or after the blisters have crusted over.

Can You Travel With Shingles?

Whether you can travel with shingles depends on a few factors:

Severity of symptoms - If your pain is manageable and you feel up for it, short trips may be okay. However, long flights or extended travel might be uncomfortable and increase your risk of complications.

Contagious period - If you have open, fluid-filled blisters, you risk transmitting the virus to others. Travelling in close quarters, like on airplanes or buses, may not be considerate to fellow travellers.

General health - Fatigue and discomfort can worsen during travel, especially without proper rest. It’s essential to evaluate how well you feel before committing to travel plans.

When travel may be possible - If your blisters have crusted over and you’re no longer contagious, travelling is generally safe. However, you should still consult with a healthcare professional before finalizing your plans.

When Does Shingles Stop Being Contagious?

Shingles typically stops being contagious once all the blisters have dried and scabbed over. This usually happens within 7 to 10 days after the rash appears. Once scabbed, the risk of spreading the virus is significantly reduced.

To protect others and speed up recovery, here are a few tips:

• Keep the rash covered.
• Avoid touching or scratching the blisters.
• Wash your hands frequently.

If you’re unsure whether you’re still contagious, speaking to a medical professional is always a good idea.

Book an Appointment at PinPoint Infinity Health

At PinPoint Infinity Health, we provide comprehensive services for shingles management, including shingles vaccinations and travel vaccines. Whether you’re planning a trip or want to prevent future flare-ups, we’re here to help.

Our same-day clinic appointments are convenient and easy to book online. Don’t let health concerns hold you back from travelling or living your life fully.

Book an appointment today

by Dr. Riskallah

Where Can You Get COVID-19 Shots in Toronto?

Toronto offers many convenient options for getting your COVID-19 vaccine, so finding a location nearby should be no problem. Here’s where you can get yours.

Where Can You Get Your COVID-19 Vaccine in Toronto?

• Pharmacies: Many neighbourhood pharmacies, such as Shoppers Drug Mart, Rexall, and independent locations, offer walk-in or booked appointments. They provide flexible hours, making it easy to fit a visit into your schedule.
• Walk-in Clinics: Numerous walk-in clinics across Toronto administer COVID-19 vaccines without the need for an appointment. They’re ideal for last-minute visits or when you want same-day availability.
• Family Doctors: If you prefer a more personalized approach, many family doctors are providing vaccines at their offices. They can answer any questions and ensure you’re comfortable during the process.

Get Your COVID-19 Shot at PinPoint Infinity Health

We’re here to make getting your COVID vaccine simple and stress-free. Located in downtown Toronto’s Harbourfront area, our clinic at 39 Lower Simcoe St. offers convenient same-day appointments. You can book online right now and secure your spot in minutes.

Book your appointment today and stay protected

How Frequently Should You Get COVID-19 Boosters?

Staying up to date with your COVID-19 vaccinations is important for ongoing protection. Health Canada recommends receiving a COVID-19 booster six months after your last dose. Sometimes, a shorter interval of at least three months may be appropriate, depending on individual risk factors and guidance from your healthcare provider.

Should You Get a Vaccine If You've Already Had COVID-19?

After a COVID-19 infection, getting vaccinated is safe and helps strengthen your long-term protection. If you've had a confirmed infection, waiting a bit before getting vaccinated can improve your immune response.

• If previously vaccinated: Consider waiting 3 to 6 months after infection.
• If not previously vaccinated:
  • Wait 8 weeks if you’re not immunocompromised.
  • Wait 4 to 8 weeks if you are immunocompromised.

This timing enhances immunity and ensures better protection.

Should You Get Your Flu Shot at the Same Time as Your COVID-19 Shot?

Yes, it's safe and convenient to receive both the COVID-19 and flu vaccines during the same visit. According to Ontario's Ministry of Health, these vaccines can be administered together or at any interval before or after each other.

This simplifies the vaccination process and reduces the need for multiple appointments. By getting both vaccines, you enhance your protection against these viruses, especially during the fall and winter months when their activity typically increases. If you have concerns about receiving both vaccines simultaneously, consult with your healthcare provider to determine the best plan for you.

Wrapping Up

Protecting yourself and your loved ones has never been easier. With accessible vaccine options across Toronto, same-day appointments, and the ability to pair your COVID-19 and flu shots, you’re just a step away from stronger immunity.

Book your appointment with us today

by Dr. Riskallah

Getting the Shingles Vaccine - An Easy Guide

Shingles is a health concern that many adults should be aware of, especially as they age. A safe and effective way to protect yourself from this painful condition is through the shingles vaccine.

If you’re considering this important step for your health, here’s everything you need to know.

What Are Shingles?

Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is a viral infection caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus—the same virus that causes chickenpox. After recovering from chickenpox, the virus remains dormant in your body and can reactivate years later, causing shingles.

Shingles typically manifest as a painful rash, often on one side of the body or face. Symptoms can include burning pain, itching, fever, and sensitivity to touch. In severe cases, complications like postherpetic neuralgia (chronic nerve pain) can occur, making prevention essential.

Who Is at Risk?

Shingles can affect anyone who has had chickenpox, but certain groups are at higher risk:

• Adults over 50
• Individuals with weakened immune systems
• Those undergoing chemotherapy or other treatments that suppress the immune system
• People with chronic conditions like diabetes

Even if you’re healthy, the risk of shingles increases as you age.

What Is the Shingles Vaccine?

The shingles vaccine is a medical breakthrough designed to prevent the development of shingles.

The current vaccine, Shingrix, is a two-dose vaccine recommended for adults. It’s highly effective, with studies showing it reduces the risk of shingles by over 90%.

How Can the Vaccine Help?

The shingles vaccine is your best defense against this debilitating condition. It:

• Prevents shingles in the majority of cases
• Reduces the severity of symptoms if shingles do occur
• Minimizes the risk of complications like postherpetic neuralgia

By getting vaccinated, you not only protect yourself but also reduce the strain on healthcare systems by preventing potential hospitalizations due to shingles complications.

Even if you’ve had shingles in the past, you can benefit from the vaccine to prevent recurrence. Discuss your specific health needs with a healthcare provider to determine if the vaccine is right for you.

How PinPoint Infinity Health Can Help

At PinPoint Infinity Health, we’re committed to making preventative care, like the shingles vaccine, accessible and stress-free. Our convenient clinics in Toronto and Oakville offer quick and same-day appointments to ensure you get the care you need when you need it.

Our Locations:

• Toronto: 39 Lower Simcoe St, Toronto, ON M5J 3A6
• Oakville: 2441 Lakeshore Rd W, Oakville, ON L6L 5V5

Our team of dedicated healthcare professionals provides personalized guidance to help you navigate your health journey. Whether you’re unsure if the shingles vaccine is right for you or ready to book your appointment, we’re here to assist every step of the way.

Book Your Same-Day Shingles Vaccine Appointment Today

Shingles is a painful condition that can significantly impact your quality of life, but the good news is that it’s preventable.

By getting vaccinated, you take a proactive step toward safeguarding your health. At PinPoint Infinity Health, we make it easy to prioritize your well-being with convenient, same-day appointments in Toronto and Oakville.

Book Your Appointment Now

by Dr. Riskallah

Where Can You Get COVID-19 Tests in Toronto?

Toronto residents have several options for obtaining COVID-19 tests. Let's take a look at what's available.

Publicly Funded Testing Locations

The Ontario government provides publicly funded COVID-19 testing for eligible individuals at various locations:

• Participating Pharmacies: Select pharmacies offer free PCR testing for those who meet provincial eligibility criteria, such as individuals over 65 or those with specific health conditions. It's advisable to contact the pharmacy beforehand to confirm test availability and operating hours.
• Primary Care Providers: Some family doctors and nurse practitioners provide PCR testing for eligible patients. Consult your healthcare provider to determine if they offer this service.

Private Testing Services

For individuals not eligible for publicly funded tests or those requiring testing for travel or other purposes, private testing options are available:

• Dynacare: Provides COVID-19 testing at various locations across Ontario. Fees apply, and it's recommended to check their website for the most current information on test availability and pricing.

Visit Our Walk-In Clinic: PinPoint Infinity Health Toronto

PinPoint Infinity Health, located at 39 Lower Simcoe St, Toronto, ON M5J 3A6, offers comprehensive COVID-19 services:

• Testing Services: Provides both PCR and rapid antigen tests. Fees may apply; contacting the clinic directly will provide the most accurate information regarding costs and appointment availability.
• Vaccination Services: Administers COVID-19 vaccinations in line with public health guidelines. Vaccinations are typically free, but it's advisable to confirm with the clinic.

Book a Same-Day Appointment Today

Conclusion

Staying informed about COVID-19 testing and vaccination options is crucial for your health and the well-being of the Toronto community.

For personalized care, consider booking a same-day medical appointment at PinPoint Infinity Health to address your COVID-19 testing and vaccination needs.

by Dr. Riskallah