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Hamilton Health Sciences – McMaster University Medical Centre (MUMC) is a major academic hospital and regional referral centre located at 1200 Main St W in Hamilton, Ontario, operating a 24/7 emergency department within one of Canada's largest and most research-active hospital networks. The facility is home to McMaster Children's Hospital — which includes the fastest-growing kids-only ER in Ontario — as well as a comprehensive Women's Health Centre offering high-risk obstetric and gynecological care. MUMC is the primary destination in the region for pediatric emergencies, neonatal intensive care, high-risk pregnancies, and adult outpatient specialty care; patients requiring adult trauma, cardiac surgery, stroke, or burn care are typically directed to Hamilton General Hospital.
Services & Specialties
24/7 Emergency Department, McMaster Children's Hospital – Pediatric Emergency, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) – one of Canada's largest, High-Risk Obstetrics and Labour & Delivery, Women's Health and Gynecology, Pediatric Trauma Centre (regional), Child and Youth Mental Health (Ontario's largest inpatient unit), Pediatric Cancer Care, Pediatric Orthopedics and Neurosurgery, Digestive Diseases (one of Canada's premier programs), Diabetes Care – Adult and Pediatric, Adult Congenital Heart Disease / Cardiac Diseases in Pregnancy Clinic, Michael G. DeGroote Pain Clinic, Boris Clinic (multi-specialty integrated care), Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence Services, Diagnostic Imaging and Nuclear Medicine, Endoscopy / GI Investigations, Prenatal Diagnosis Clinic, Midwifery Care Unit, Pharmacy Services, Helipad for patient transfer (offsite).
Amenities
On-site Pharmacy Services
Diagnostic Imaging
Nuclear Medicine
Bike storage (contact HHS Security Office at main entrance, level 2)
MUMC's emergency department specializes in pediatric and women's health emergencies — it is the regional pediatric trauma centre and the top destination for high-risk pregnancies in the Hamilton area.
If you or a family member needs adult trauma care, cardiac surgery, stroke treatment, or burn care, Hamilton General Hospital (a separate HHS site) is the appropriate destination, not MUMC.
The campus is large and complex. Arrive early and budget extra time for parking, especially for daytime appointments or visits. The underground garage is well-signed from Main St W and King St.
Taking the bus? HSR routes 10 and 1A stop directly in front of the hospital at 'Main at Emerson' — a very convenient option if you're coming from central or east Hamilton.
As a major teaching hospital affiliated with McMaster University, expect that medical students, residents, and researchers may be involved in your care — this is a normal part of receiving care at an academic health centre.
If you need a Walk Safe escort to your vehicle or bus stop, contact HHS Security Services at 905-521-2100.
What to Bring
Ontario health card (OHIP card)
Government-issued photo ID
List of current medications and dosages
Any relevant medical records, imaging, or specialist letters
Insurance information (for non-OHIP-covered services)
Phone charger or portable battery pack
Snacks and water (wait times can vary)
A comfort item or change of clothes for children visiting the pediatric ER
Frequently Asked Questions
Does McMaster University Medical Centre have a children's emergency department?
Yes. McMaster Children's Hospital, located within MUMC, operates a dedicated pediatric emergency department and is the fastest-growing kids-only ER in Ontario. It is the regional pediatric trauma centre and is supported by specialists in children's cancer, digestive diseases, orthopedics, neurosurgery, and mental health.
Is MUMC the right hospital for a high-risk pregnancy or labour emergency in Hamilton?
Yes. MUMC hosts one of Ontario's largest labour and delivery programs and specializes in high-risk obstetrics. Women experiencing pregnancy complications or requiring specialized maternal-fetal care are typically served at this site.
Can I go to MUMC for adult trauma, stroke, or cardiac surgery emergencies?
No. Adult trauma, cardiac surgery, stroke, and burn services are located at Hamilton General Hospital, a separate Hamilton Health Sciences site. If you or someone you know is experiencing a stroke, major trauma, or cardiac emergency, call 911 — paramedics will direct you to the appropriate facility.
Is there parking available at McMaster University Medical Centre?
Yes. An underground parking garage is accessible from Main St W or King St at a rate of $3.75 per 30 minutes (daily max $20). A short-term surface lot is also available directly across from the main entrance. Long-term passes are available for patients with ongoing appointments.
Is MUMC a teaching hospital? Will students be involved in my care?
Yes. MUMC is closely affiliated with McMaster University and has been a teaching hospital since 1972. Medical students, residents, and clinical researchers are routinely involved in patient care as part of the academic mission of the hospital. This is standard practice and helps train future generations of healthcare providers.
What transit options serve McMaster University Medical Centre?
HSR bus routes 10 (B-Line) and 1A (King) stop directly outside the hospital at 'Main at Emerson.' GO Transit service is also available from a bus terminal on the McMaster campus, connecting to the Lakeshore West and Hwy 407 West routes. SoBi bike-share hubs are located at six spots on campus.