What does 811 (Info-Santé, Info-Social) do and when should I call?

811 is a single phone number that gives access to free and confidential consultation services. With option 1 (Info-Santé), you reach a nurse for a non-urgent health problem. With option 2 (Info-Social), you reach a psychosocial intervention professional for a psychosocial problem. The services are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to anyone living in Quebec, for themselves or for a loved one. According to the official Info-Santé page, in the case of a serious problem or an urgent need, it is important to dial 9-1-1 or go to the emergency room.

Key facts

Cost and confidentiality

Free and confidential telephone consultation services.

Availability

24 hours a day, 365 days a year, to anyone living in Quebec (for themselves or for a loved one).

When to call Info-Santé (option 1)

For a non-urgent health problem. Examples on the page: flu lasting several days, a high fever in a child, an insect bite, questions about health network resources in your area.

When to call Info-Social

For a psychosocial problem. Examples on the page: anxiety, worries about a loved one, family or couple difficulties, bereavement.

Length of an Info-Santé call

On average 12 to 16 minutes, in 3 or 4 steps.

Where it is offered

In all regions of Quebec except Terres-Cries-de-la-Baie-James and Nunavik. Answers in English are available; telephone relay service for people with hearing impairments.

Steps

1. Dial 811. You reach the Info-Santé and Info-Social services for your region.
2. Choose the option that fits your need: option 1 (Info-Santé) for health advice, option 2 (Info-Social) for psychosocial advice, option 3 (Guichet d’accès à la première ligne) if you have no family doctor.
3. You are asked whether you agree to provide some personal information (first and last name, date of birth, postal code, phone number). It stays confidential and providing it is not mandatory: you can tell the person who answers.
4. The person who answers listens, asks questions and assesses your need, then gives you information and may advise measures to monitor how your situation evolves.
5. If necessary, they direct you to an appropriate resource (for example a medical clinic for Info-Santé, or a crisis shelter for Info-Social).
6. In the case of a serious problem or an urgent need, the Info-Santé page says to dial 9-1-1 or go to the emergency room.

General information drawn from official sources. It does not replace legal, medical or financial advice. For your situation, contact the organization concerned or a professional.