Understanding the role of the hospital emergency department

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The Emergency Departments (ED or commonly referred to as ER) at Blanche River Health’s Kirkland Lake and Englehart sites are open 24/7, 365 days a year, providing critical care for urgent and life-threatening conditions.  

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However, BRH officials say that with the shortage of primary care providers in our communities, many people end up seeking assistance in the ER, as well.  

A media release from BRH says this is actually not the most suitable option when seeking non-urgent support. 

Officials note there are certain times when going to the emergency department is the appropriate option. 

Call 911 or go to the nearest ER when experiencing: 

• Pain not relieved by pain medication 

• Persistent, severe chest pain 

• Thoughts of harming yourself or others 

They also note that calling an ambulance does not guarantee faster care. All patients are assessed or triaged based on the severity of their condition (acuity), not their method of transportation. 

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For non-emergency concerns, BRH encourages residents to consider alternative healthcare services that may provide faster or more appropriate care: 

• Family Doctors and Nurse Practitioners: For ongoing care or non-urgent medical concerns. Contact your local Family Health Team for appointments: 

• Kirkland District Family Health Team: 1-705-567-2224 

• Englehart & District Family Health Team: 1-705-544-2321 

• Mino M’shki-ki Indigenous Health Team: 1-705-647-7855 Ext. 2100 

• Centre De Sante Communautaire – Kirkland Lake: 1-705-567-1414 

• Centre De Sante Communautaire – Larder Lake: 1-705-643-2442 

• Centre De Sante Communautaire – Virginiatown  1-705-634-2223 

• Health811: Speak with a registered nurse 24/7 for free health advice by dialing 811 or visiting Ontario.ca/Health811. 

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• Virtual Care Options: Access online medical services for non-urgent issues: 

• North East Virtual Care: OHIP-covered, ideal for episodic issues, available daily 1-9 PM. Visit nevirtualcare.ca. 

• RocketDoctor.ca: Offers both OHIP and private services, including same-day virtual appointments. Visit rocketdoctor.ca. 

• SickKids Virtual Urgent Care: For pediatric advice and care. Visit sickkids.ca/en/emergency/virtual-urgent-care. 

Pharmacies: Pharmacists can assess and prescribe treatments for minor ailments such as pink eye, heartburn, nasal allergies, mild acne, and urinary tract infections (in certain cases). They can also assist with conditions like eczema, diaper rash, insect bites, and menstrual pain. Contact your local pharmacist to learn more about their services. 

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• Pharmasave BDR Drug Mart, 1-705-567-3315, 15 Station Rd N, Kirkland Lake 

• Kirkland Pharmacy PharmaChoice, 1-705-567-3223, 38 Government Rd W, Kirkland Lake 

• Loblaw Pharmacy, 1-705-567-4941, 15 McChesney Ave, Kirkland Lake 

• Rx Drug Mart, 1-705-544-8054, 63 5th St, Englehart 

• Pharmasave Marshall’s, 1-705-544-7878, 43 3rd St, Englehart 

• Pharmasave Larder Lake, 1-705-643-2400, 15 Godfrey St, Larder Lake 

• I.D.A. – Earlton Pharmacy, 1-705-563-8300, 14 10th St E, Earlton 

• Mental Health Support: Access free counselling and support services at ontario.ca/page/find-mental-health-support or call 1-866-531-2600. 

• Poison Control: For poison emergencies or related questions, call 1-844-764-7669, available 24/7. 

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“What some do not realize is that using the ED for non-urgent matters can put unnecessary strain on resources needed for critical cases,” said Samantha Saudino, BRH Interim Vice President, Clinical Services, and Chief Nursing Officer. “We encourage everyone to assess their symptoms and explore other care options if the situation doesn’t require immediate intervention.” 

Dr. Brian MacPherson, Chief of Staff at BRH, added, “Accessing the right care at the right time is key to ensuring everyone receives the appropriate attention. If in doubt, options like virtual care, family health teams, or pharmacies can be effective resources for timely care.” 

Officials lastly say “by choosing the right care at the right time, you help ensure that emergency resources are available for those who need them most. BRH remains committed to providing excellent care for all residents while encouraging the community to take full advantage of the healthcare services available locally.” 

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