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Written By: Hesam Seyedi | October 20, 2025
If you’re in Ontario and need quick medical advice, the number for Telehealth Ontario — now known as Health Connect Ontario (Health811) — is 811.
This free, 24/7 service connects you directly with a registered nurse who can help you assess symptoms, provide guidance, and recommend next steps.
If you have hearing or speech difficulties, use the TTY number 1-866-797-0007.
For emergencies, always call 911.
You don’t need a health card to call, and every conversation is confidential.
Health Connect Ontario is designed to help you make informed decisions about your care — from whether to visit a clinic to finding local health services near you.
For official details and additional support, visit Ontario’s Health811 website.
But what exactly happens when you call 811 — and when should you use it instead of a doctor or virtual consultation?
The 811 line is designed for guidance, not emergencies. It’s ideal when you’re unsure whether to see a doctor, visit urgent care, or manage symptoms at home. Telehealth nurses help bridge that uncertainty with safe, evidence-based advice.
Call 811 for non-emergency symptoms such as mild pain, fever, stomach issues, or medication concerns. The nurse can help you decide if your symptoms need a doctor’s visit or can be monitored at home.
However, if you experience chest pain, severe breathing difficulty, uncontrolled bleeding, or sudden confusion, always call 911 immediately. Telehealth is not a substitute for emergency services.
As of 2025, virtual consultations account for over 40% of healthcare visits across Canada — showing how routine it’s become to use services like 811 before booking a doctor’s appointment.
If your issue persists or the nurse recommends a follow-up, you can schedule an in-person or virtual consultation for deeper evaluation. Services such as specialist consultation online Canada make that process even faster by connecting you directly with qualified specialists when needed.
Telehealth has changed how Canadians access healthcare — especially for those managing chronic conditions, living in rural areas, or needing after-hours support. Instead of waiting weeks for an appointment, 811 makes professional guidance available within minutes.
Here’s what makes services like Health811 invaluable for everyday care:
▪ Fast Access: Skip long wait times and speak with a nurse right away.
▪ Free and Confidential: 811 is fully funded and doesn’t require a health card.
▪ Trusted Advice: Every call is answered by a registered nurse trained to assess symptoms.
▪ Equitable Care: Available in multiple languages and accessible across Ontario.
▪ Connected Support: Nurses can refer you to local clinics or connect you to virtual follow-ups.
According to recent data, Canada’s telehealth market is valued at over US$235 million in 2025, with continuous growth driven by patient demand and improved access through tools like 811.
While 811 is an excellent first step for health advice, it has clear limits. Nurses can assess symptoms and offer guidance — but they can’t diagnose, order lab tests, or prescribe medication. Knowing when to move beyond Telehealth ensures you get the right level of care at the right time.
Here are some situations where you’ll need more than 811:
▪ Persistent or Worsening Symptoms: If your condition isn’t improving after following nurse advice, it’s time to book a doctor’s visit.
▪ Specialist Referrals: Complex cases often require expert evaluation, which 811 cannot directly provide.
▪ Diagnostic Testing: Imaging, bloodwork, or scans can’t be ordered through Telehealth.
▪ Prescription Management: Medication renewals or changes must come from a licensed physician.
▪ Emergency Situations: For chest pain, severe bleeding, or loss of consciousness, call 911 immediately.
Data shows that virtual care now accounts for over 12% of outpatient visits globally, and most experts agree that hybrid care — combining virtual and in-person consultations — leads to better patient outcomes.
If your nurse recommends further evaluation, consider scheduling an online consultation directly with a physician. It’s fast, flexible, and helps ensure you receive care that’s both convenient and comprehensive.
Telehealth Ontario, or Health811, bridges the gap between uncertainty and care. It’s a simple, accessible way to speak with a registered nurse anytime — no waiting room, no health card, and no cost.
Still, 811 is only one part of the care journey. When your symptoms need a deeper look or a specialist’s insight, getting an online consultation with a doctor can help you move forward faster. These services are designed to complement, not replace, public Telehealth — giving patients more control and quicker answers.
If you’re considering a private or virtual appointment, online second medical opinion services can connect you directly with top Canadian specialists for clarity and peace of mind.
Whether it starts with an 811 call or a follow-up consultation, taking the first step toward understanding your health is what matters most.
