Primary health care is the foundation of your health journey. It is the first place you go for care when you are sick, need a check-up or want to maintain good health. Primary health-care services keep you healthy, prevent illness, manage chronic health conditions and provide care closer to home. These services are provided by a variety of health-care professionals, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists and social workers.
Family care teams are a new way to provide primary health care in Newfoundland and Labrador. The vision for family care teams is to make it easier for people and families to get the health care they need in their own communities. Family care teams bring together different health-care professionals to work as a team to support people’s health and well-being.
NL Health Services is actively working to connect individuals who have registered with Patient Connect NL to a primary care provider (family doctor or nurse practitioner).
We are committed to improving access to primary health care for all. If you do not currently have a family doctor, there are several care options available to you:
A range of services are available for mental health and addiction support, including immediate counselling, peer support, and online resources.
Over half the population in Newfoundland and Labrador, aged 12 and older, live with at least one chronic health condition. For support to help better manage some conditions, visit:
Screening appointments for cervical, breast, and colon cancer are available through primary health providers or self-booking. Services for Pap smears, mammograms, and colon cancer screenings are accessible via the provided contact numbers.
Dial-a-Dietitian offers free, confidential nutrition advice from registered dietitians, available through 811.
211 is a free, 24/7 service operated by United Way of Canada that helps connect you to health and other services in Newfoundland and Labrador, offering information and referrals for a variety of needs.
Not every health concern needs emergency care. The table below can help you determine what level of care is right for you.
The symptom checker tool can help you assess your symptoms and identify the level of care you might need. Access the symptom checker.
Emergency departments are available 24/7 to support you in urgent situations.
Urgent care centres help you with unexpected, but non-life-threatening health concerns.
Seek primary health care for health concerns that can wait 24-48 hours
Last updated on: March 31, 2026