When you move to a new city or neighborhood one of the things that you're sure to check out is the sources of urgent care and the walk-in facilities in the area. While we all hope that we will never need to call for an ambulance or head to the emergency room, we also know that most people will need these services sooner or later. If you're living in a remote location in the north of the country, there are different things that you might want to look for. Here are some tips for finding emergency services and quality walk-in clinics in your area.

Urgent care services count as ambulatory care and emergency care on a walk-in basis without a pre-arranged appointment. They are usually in place to deal with patients that are suffering from an injury or illness that needs immediate attention. If you fall and break a bone you should head to the emergency room. If you feel that you are suffering from the flu, you should go to a walk-in clinic or make an appointment with your family doctor.

The emergency department is the section of the facility that is meant for just that - emergencies. If you're living within a city, you are likely less than a five-minute ambulance trip to an emergency department in peak conditions. You should check the fastest route to the nearest emergency room upon moving into a new home. Also check alternate routes in case there are traffic delays.

Dealing with a dental emergency is a bit of a different beast. Most dentists, much like Trinity Family Dental offer same-day appointments (call Trinity at (905) 579-5551), for those who need the services of a professional immediately to offer relief of sudden pain in your teeth or gums or to respond to an accident involving the teeth. Your best bet is to call your own dentist (or any local practitioner - you needn't be a patient on file) first before heading to the E.R.

If you're dealing with more minor illnesses and injuries and you don't have a family doctor then you're going to want to find a walk-in clinic. Make sure you bring your medical history with you if this is your first trip to the clinic. This will speed things along once you arrive. Also, try to know exactly what you need upon arriving and explain all of those needs upon checking in. Things get backed up when patients claim to only have one issue while in the waiting room and then fess up to more problems once they're with the doctor.

If you're looking for emergency services or walk-in clinics near you, the Red Cross is an excellent source. They can provide you with the address and phone number of medical facilities nearest you. If you're traveling to somewhere check with your hotel or travel agent about medical services. Keep a copy of this information in your wallet as well as somewhere in your home and car and make sure everyone in your house knows where it is. You never know when you might need it.