The Niagara Health System launching a public education campaign ahead of major changes to the landscape of care in the region.

When "Minutes Count.  Right Choice, Right Care."  Aims to ensure patients across Niagara know when to call 911 and where to go for care.

March 24th the new St. Catharines Hospital opens the doors to receive patients at 6am on Fourth Ave.

Interim President and CEO Dr. Sue Matthews says they want to make sure everyone is aware of the changes and also of the appropriate use of 911.

Dr. Matthews says they want to make sure if anyone is in doubt in an emergency, they can simply call 911 and get guidance from there.

She says care starts the minute the call is answered, and in a true emergency - minutes count.

As of March 19th the maternal and child programs in Niagara Falls and Welland are closed, meaning people needing those services will go to the current St. Catharines General site.

March 23rd Ontario Street Urgent Care Centre will close at 10pm.

Dr. Matthews says at the new St. Catharines Hospital, the Urgent Care Centre and Emergency Department are combined - so they'll determine there what type of care you need.