South Muskoka Memorial Hospital

Best Times to Visit

Quieter times: No historical wait time data is available for this location. Generally, mid-morning to early afternoon on weekdays tends to be less congested at community hospital ERs. If your situation is not life-threatening, consider whether a virtual care or urgent care option may be appropriate before visiting.

Busier times: South Muskoka Memorial Hospital serves a large seasonal cottage country population — expect significantly higher ED volumes on summer weekends, long weekends, and holidays from late June through early September. Friday evenings and Saturday afternoons during peak season are typically the busiest periods.

About South Muskoka Memorial Hospital

South Muskoka Memorial Hospital is a 67-bed acute care facility located at 75 Ann St in Bracebridge, Ontario, serving residents and seasonal visitors across the South Muskoka region. Its 24/7 Emergency Department is staffed by physicians, nurses, and allied health professionals equipped to assess and treat life-threatening injuries and serious illness, supported by on-site diagnostic imaging, laboratory, and intensive care services. As the primary emergency resource for cottage country, the ED sees approximately 21,000–22,000 visits per year, making it an essential hub for both permanent and seasonal populations in Muskoka.

Services & Specialties

24/7 Emergency Department, Intensive Care Unit (ICU), Obstetrics, General Surgery and Endoscopy, Diagnostic Imaging: X-Ray (walk-in), CT (by appointment), Ultrasound, Mammography, Outpatient Echocardiography, Ontario Breast Screening Program, In-house Laboratory, Cardiorespiratory Services (7 days/week, 8am–4pm), Fracture Clinic, Rehabilitation Services: Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy, Speech Language Pathology, Diabetes Education, Complex Continuing Care, Palliative Care, Clinical Nutrition, Discharge Planning, In-house Pharmacy, Telemedicine, Urology, Seniors Assessment and Support Outreach Team, Spiritual Care, Interpreter and Sign Language Services.

Amenities

• Complimentary Wi-Fi for patients and visitors
• ATM in the main lobby
• Gift shop in the main lobby (operated by Auxiliary volunteers, stocking toiletries, snacks, clothing, and giftware)
• Vending machines with fresh and packaged food options on the first floor (Garden Court)
• Patient meal service available to family members and visitors for a nominal fee
• In-house pharmacy
• Spiritual care services
• Information desks staffed by Auxiliary volunteers in the front lobby
• Interpreter and sign language services (request through care team)
• MyChart patient portal for access to health records
• Wayfinding signage throughout the facility
• Mail delivery service to patient rooms

Other Care Options

Not every health issue needs an ER visit. Find out where to go for care → · 2 walk-in clinics in Bracebridge →

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Compare hospital wait times across Canada. View all wait times →

Tips Before You Go

• If you are visiting Muskoka cottage country and need emergency care, South Muskoka Memorial Hospital is the closest 24/7 ED in Bracebridge — save the address (75 Ann St) before your trip.
• X-ray is available as a walk-in service at this hospital, but CT scans require an appointment — your ER team will arrange imaging if needed during your visit.
• MRI and District Stroke Centre services are located at MAHC's Huntsville District Memorial Hospital site, not in Bracebridge — in a stroke emergency, paramedics will direct you to the appropriate facility.
• Summer and long weekends bring a significant influx of seasonal visitors to Muskoka — expect higher ED volumes during peak cottage season (late June through Labour Day).
• Bring your Ontario Health Card — most services at South Muskoka Memorial Hospital are covered by OHIP for valid cardholders, and having it on hand will speed up registration.

What to Bring

• Ontario Health Card (OHIP card)
• Photo ID
• List of current medications, dosages, and allergies
• Provincial or private insurance information
• Emergency contact name and phone number
• Comfortable clothing and a warm layer (ERs can be cold)
• Phone or tablet with charger to access MyChart or stay connected
• Snacks and water for a potentially long wait

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.