Coming for care? Start here to get ready for your visit and know what to expect.
Before your visit
Check your appointment details before you leave.
Make sure you know:
- where to go
- what time to arrive
- whether you need to prepare in advance, such as fasting before a test
- who to contact if you need to change or cancel your appointment
Need to change your appointment? Contact the clinic, program or service that booked your visit.
Contact the clinic or service that booked your visit to ask if you should still come in.
What to bring
Bring:
- your BC Services Card or another piece of identification
- your appointment details
- a list of medications you take
- glasses, hearing aids, mobility aids or other items you use every day
- something to pass the time, such as a book, headphones or phone charger
Plan your trip
Give yourself enough time to travel, park, find the right entrance and check in.
Plan your route using the trip planner from BC Transit.
When you arrive
- Check in at the front desk, clinic or care area.
- You may need to wait. Appointment and wait times can change because of patient needs, emergencies or care team availability.
- Your care team will explain what will happen and answer your questions. They may ask about your health, medications and care needs.
- You may also be asked if you identify as Indigenous. Answering is always your choice. This information helps us offer culturally safe care and connect you with supports if you choose.
During your visit
Depending on the type of care you are receiving:
- tests, exams or treatments will be explained before they happen
- you may be asked for consent before care is provided
- a support person may be allowed, depending on the care area
- your care team may talk with you about next steps, follow-up care or going home
Animals are not allowed in Island Health care areas, except certified assistance dogs. Approved therapy animals may be allowed in some areas.
Tell us if you need support with mobility, language, communication or other needs.
You can ask for help when you arrive, or contact the clinic, program or service before your visit.
You may be able to access:
- accessibility supports
- interpreter services
- Indigenous patient supports
- social work
- spiritual care
- help from your care team
View or request your health records
Learn how to view or request your health records, use MyHealth and understand how your privacy is protected.
Getting ready to go home
Your care team will help you understand what happens next.
Before you leave, ask:
- what care you need at home
- whether you need medications, supplies or equipment
- who to contact if you have questions
- whether you need follow-up care
- what symptoms or concerns to watch for
If you are not sure what information you need, start by checking your appointment details or contacting the clinic, program or service that booked your visit.