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Dryden Regional Health Centre is a 42-bed acute care facility located at 58 Goodall St in Dryden, Ontario, serving patients across the Kenora District and Northwestern Ontario. The Emergency Department operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, with on-site physician and nursing coverage and access to diagnostic imaging, CT, laboratory services, and a broad range of visiting specialists. Patients with complex or life-threatening conditions who require higher-level care are transferred via ORNGE air ambulance to Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre or Winnipeg Health Sciences Centre.
Services & Specialties
24/7 Emergency Medicine, General Surgery, Orthopaedics, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Oncology, Paediatrics, Psychiatry, Mental Health and Addictions Counselling, Crisis Response Services, Diagnostic Imaging (X-ray, CT, Ultrasound), Laboratory Services, Fracture Clinic, Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT), Plastic Surgery, Dermatology, Rheumatology, Urology, Telestroke Program, Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence Care and Treatment Program, Pulmonary Rehabilitation, Rehabilitation Services, Total Knee Replacement Post-Operative Exercise Classes, Visiting Specialist Rapid Access Clinic, ORNGE Air Ambulance Transfer Access.
Amenities
On-site cafeteria (hours may vary — call ahead to confirm)
Fully wheelchair accessible facility
TTY service available at 807-223-8295 for hearing or speech impairments
Dryden Area Family Health Team co-located on site (mental health, chronic disease management, and more)
Bring your valid Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) card — most emergency services are covered. If you do not have OHIP, bring applicable medical insurance documentation.
For mental health crises, an on-site Crisis Response team provides immediate support; the Mental Health and Addictions Services Department also offers counselling with some evening appointment availability.
If you are transferred to a larger centre such as Thunder Bay or Winnipeg, ask ER staff about the ORNGE transport process and what to expect so a family member can make arrangements.
Parking is only $2 with no time limit, so family members accompanying patients can stay as long as needed without worrying about fees.
The Dryden Area Family Health Team is located on the same property and offers services including chronic pain management, diabetes management, and COPD support — useful for non-emergency follow-up care.
What to Bring
Valid OHIP card or applicable provincial/territorial health insurance card
Government-issued photo ID (driver's licence or passport)
List of current medications, including dosages and frequency
List of known allergies (medications, foods, environmental)
Any relevant medical records, recent test results, or referral letters
Health card or insurance information for any accompanying dependents
Phone charger or portable battery — wait times can vary
Comfortable clothing and a light layer, as ER waiting areas can be cool
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Dryden Regional Health Centre ER have a doctor on site around the clock?
Yes. A physician is on site Monday through Sunday from 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM. Between 11:00 PM and 7:00 AM, an on-call physician is available and can be reached by nursing staff. Nurses are always present in the ED regardless of the hour.
What specialist services are available at Dryden Regional Health Centre?
DRHC supports a broad range of visiting specialists including orthopaedics, obstetrics and gynaecology, oncology, paediatrics, ear/nose/throat, plastic surgery, dermatology, rheumatology, urology, and psychiatry, in addition to general surgery and emergency medicine supported by 16 on-site physicians.
What happens if my condition requires care beyond what DRHC can provide?
Patients requiring a higher level of specialized care are transferred to larger centres through Ontario's provincial Critical Care system. Most patients are transported to Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre or Winnipeg Health Sciences Centre / St. Boniface General Hospital, with ORNGE air ambulance available for critical transfers.
Is there mental health support available at the Dryden Regional Health Centre ER?
Yes. A Crisis Response team is on site to provide immediate mental health support for people seeking urgent assistance. The Mental Health and Addictions Services Department also offers counselling during regular business hours and some evenings for ongoing support needs.
Can I get imaging and lab work done at DRHC?
Yes. Diagnostic Imaging services — including CT scans, X-rays, and ultrasounds — as well as full laboratory services are available on site and support the emergency department directly.
Is there parking at Dryden Regional Health Centre, and how much does it cost?
Yes. Parking is available in the front lot and in a lot across from the Dryden Area Family Health Team. The fee is $2, paid on entry, with no time-limit restrictions — meaning you or your family members can stay as long as needed.