Joseph Brant Memorial Hospital

Best Times to Visit

Quieter times: No historical wait time data is currently available for this location. Generally, community hospital ERs in Ontario tend to be less busy during mid-morning on weekdays (Tuesday through Thursday). If your condition is non-life-threatening, visiting during these lower-traffic windows may result in shorter waits.

Busier times: No historical wait time data is currently available for this location. As a general pattern, emergency departments across Ontario typically see higher volumes on Monday mornings, Friday evenings, and weekend afternoons, as well as during cold and flu season. Evenings after 6 p.m. and Sunday nights can also be busier at community hospitals serving populations like Burlington.

About Joseph Brant Memorial Hospital

Joseph Brant Hospital's Emergency Department in Burlington, Ontario provides 24/7 emergency care for patients of all ages at 1230 North Shore Blvd E, along the shores of Lake Ontario. As an Academic Community Teaching Hospital affiliated with McMaster University, the ER offers access to a broad range of on-site specialists including cardiologists, general surgeons, orthopedic surgeons, and infectious disease specialists. The department also houses Nina's Place Sexual Assault & Domestic Violence Care Centre and dedicated Psychiatric Emergency Services, making it a comprehensive emergency care destination for residents of Burlington, Waterdown, Flamborough, and surrounding Halton and Hamilton-Wentworth communities.

Services & Specialties

24/7 Emergency Department (all ages), Psychiatric Emergency Services, Nina's Place — Sexual Assault & Domestic Violence Care Centre, Cardiology consultation, General surgery, Orthopedic surgery, Infectious disease specialist, ENT (Ear, Nose & Throat), Internal medicine (Internist), Oncology consultation, Emergency Medical Services (EMS) intake, Diagnostic Imaging (CT, MRI, Ultrasound, Fluoroscopy), Laboratory & bloodwork, Maternal & pediatric emergency care (up to age 18), Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), Trauma and acute care.

Amenities

• Cafeteria (Pasquale & Anita Paletta Grand Hall)
• La Prep restaurant
• Tim Hortons (Level 1, North Tower — Mon–Fri 6:30am–7:30pm; Sat–Sun 8:30am–7:30pm)
• Gift Shop (Level 1, South Tower — Mon–Fri 9:00am–7:30pm; Sat–Sun 10:00am–2:00pm)
• Pay telephones throughout hospital
• Free inpatient telephone service
• Free inpatient television service
• Public television screens throughout hospital
• EV charging stations (ChargePoint)
• Volunteer wayfinding assistance
• Accessibility transport chairs (Staxis)

Other Care Options

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Tips Before You Go

• Patients are triaged by severity of condition, not arrival order — if you have a less urgent concern, expect to wait while critical cases are prioritized.
• Bring your Ontario Health Card (OHIP card) or proof of medical coverage to ensure your visit is covered without out-of-pocket costs.
• The Emergency Department is on the Main Level of the South Tower — follow hospital signage from the parking garage pedestrian bridge to navigate efficiently.
• If you are a frequent visitor or accompanying a family member through an extended stay, consider purchasing an H-PASS from the parking kiosk to save on parking costs.
• Burlington Transit Route 10 from Burlington GO Station is a quick and affordable way to reach the hospital if you are unable to drive or park.
• Service animals and guide dogs are permitted in the hospital, but personal pets are not allowed — plan accordingly if travelling with animals.

What to Bring

• Ontario Health Card (OHIP) or provincial health insurance card
• Government-issued photo ID
• List of current medications, dosages, and allergies
• Any relevant medical records, test results, or referral letters
• OHIP-covered items are billed directly; bring a credit or debit card for parking, food, or non-covered items
• Phone charger or portable battery pack for long waits
• Comfortable clothing and a light jacket (ERs can be cool)
• Snacks and water for accompanying family members or for less urgent waits

Frequently Asked Questions

About ER Wait Times

Emergency departments use triage. Patients with more serious conditions are seen first, regardless of arrival time.

Wait times are estimates based on Ontario health data. Actual wait times may vary.

If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 immediately.