The Unattached Care Clinic (UCC) was established collectively with Family Health Teams (FHTs) across Huron and Perth and supported by the Huron Perth and Area Ontario Health Team (HPA-OHT) to address the need for primary care services for individuals without a primary care provider. The UCC provides people-centred care for acute, chronic, and preventive health needs, in an effort to ensure that all community members have access to essential healthcare services.

Our Mission

The UCC is committed to delivering comprehensive healthcare services to those without a family doctor or nurse practitioner (NP) in Huron Perth and area. Our goal is to improve overall health outcomes and ensure timely access to primary care.

Available Services at the Unattached Care Clinic

The Unattached Care Clinic offers prompt, problem-specific (episodic) care for individuals of all ages without a family doctor, addressing health needs that are not emergencies but require timely attention. Examples of care provided include:

  • Ear and throat concerns: assessment and treatment for sore throats or ear pain
  • Urinary issues: care for urinary tract infections and bladder infections
  • Minor injuries: support for sprains, strains, and other mild injuries
  • Eye health: addressing redness, irritation, or mild eye infections
  • Skin conditions: treatment for skin infections, rashes, or irritation

Additional services include:

  • Prescription renewals: available by appointment only, scheduled at least two weeks in advance
  • Paediatric care: dedicated appointments for children (ages 0-17)
  • Connections to local support: assistance in finding further healthcare resources and support for ongoing health needs

For emergency medical care, please call 911 or visit the nearest emergency department.

Locations

Our clinics are strategically located in Stratford, Listowel, Wingham, Goderich, Zurich, and Exeter, making them accessible for residents within a 40km radius of their homes.

For appointments or general inquiries, please call the clinic nearest to you:

  • Stratford Family Health Team: 226-766-0510
  • Listowel-Wingham and Area Family Health Team: 519-291-4511
  • Bluewater Area Family Health Team, Exeter Medical Clinic (currently offering limited services); Maitland Valley Medical Centre: 519-870-9034

Independence and Community Focus

The UCC is a separate program of the Family Health Team. Accessing this program does not “attach” the patient to a family doctor at the clinic. 

Additional Resources

We understand that the healthcare needs of our community extend beyond the services provided by the Unattached Care Clinic. To ensure comprehensive care options are available to all residents, we encourage you to explore and share the following resources:

  1. Know Your Options:  Visit the “Know Your Options” for comprehensive information on alternative healthcare services available in the Huron Perth region.
  2. Urgent Care Ontario: For situations requiring prompt medical attention that fall between primary care and emergency services, Urgent Care Ontario provides virtual urgent care appointments. Visit www.urgentcareontario.ca to book a virtual care appointment.

FAQs for Patients

1. Who can use the Unattached Care Clinic?

The UCC is open to individuals living in Huron Perth and Area who do not have a Family Doctor or Nurse Practitioner. Whether you have acute, chronic, or preventive healthcare needs, you are welcome at the clinic.

If you have a family doctor or nurse practitioner, you are not eligible for the Unattached Care Clinic.

2. Do I need an appointment to visit the clinic?

Yes. Scheduling appointments is required to ensure appropriate information is gathered, access to timely care is provided, and wait times are reduced. You can book an appointment by calling the clinic closest to where you live.

3. Who will provide my care at the Unattached Care Clinic?

The Unattached Care Clinic is Nurse Practitioner-led, meaning your care may be provided by Nurse Practitioners (NPs), registered nurses, or mental health service providers. This team-based approach ensures you receive comprehensive, high-quality care tailored to your needs. If additional services are needed, our team can refer you to other healthcare providers or community resources to help manage your health.

4. What should I bring to my appointment?

Please bring any relevant medical records, a list of current medications, and your health card if you have one. If you are visiting for the first time, it is helpful to bring any previous medical history documentation if you have them. Booked on a first-come, first-served basis.

5. Will I get a family doctor through the UCC?

No, the UCC provides primary care services but does not provide you with a permanent primary care provider. We aim to meet your immediate healthcare needs and provide follow-up as necessary.

Please sign up at Healthcare Connect to find a family doctor.

6. Are there any fees for services?

Most services at the UCC are covered by provincial funding. Please inquire while booking at the clinic for more details.

FAQs for Providers

1. How can I refer a patient to the Unattached Care Clinic?

Patients can self-refer by calling the clinic closest to them or providers can complete a referral form [download pdf]. 

2. What types of patients are suitable for referral?

The UCC is aimed at people without a family doctor or nurse practitioner (NP) who need acute, chronic, or preventive care. We welcome referrals for people requiring comprehensive primary care services.

3. Can I consult with UCC providers about a referred patient?

Yes, our providers are available for consultations regarding referred patients. You can contact us directly through our clinic contact details provided on our website.

4. Where can I access resources to promote UCC services?

A comprehensive UCC Digital Toolkit is available to help providers and organizations share information about the clinics. It includes social media content, posters, digital screen graphics, and more. Access the UCC Digital Toolkit here.