Health Care District clarifies guidance on receiving after-hours care

||| FROM TOM EVERSOLE, INTERIM HEALTH CARE SUPERINTENDENT |||

In partnership with Orcas Island Health Care District, Island Health has made considerable improvements in access to after-hours care. Here’s the information you need to know:

HOW TO GUIDE: AFTER-HOURS CARE
If you’re experiencing a life-threatening event, such as heart attack or stroke, call 9-1-1. Orcas Island residents have access to after-hours care seven day a week for urgent, non-life threatening health matters. Whether you need care during or after clinic hours, please call 360.293.3101.

After-hours process

• Call 360.293.3101 and listen carefully to the prompts.
• When calling after-hours, you will be asked to provide relevant information on your medical situation.
• The on-call physician will return your call within 30 minutes to provide advice on your symptoms.
• If determined to be medically necessary, the on-call physician will contact an Orcas Island provider to address urgent medical issues on the island.
• This may result in an after-hours clinic visit or help in facilitating an appointment in the clinic the following day.

Island Primary Care – Orcas is not a walk-in clinic. Same-day appointments may be available. Appointments are required for all services during or after business hours. Schedule appointments by calling: 360.293.3101 or toll-free at 360.376.2561