People in Nanaimo will have more appointments available and additional options for their outpatient laboratory needs thanks to changes to outpatient laboratory services.
To balance patient demand and improve service, Island Health is shifting hours and staffing between the two Island Health outpatient lab locations – NRGH Main Lab inside the hospital and Satellite Lab at #2-1599 Dufferin Crescent. Access to lab services will continue to be available Monday to Friday from 7:15 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Effective April 13, 2026, hours will be:
- NRGH Main Lab: Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., appointment only, some urgent appointments available.
- Satellite Lab: Monday to Friday, 7:15 a.m. to 3:15 p.m., open to walk-ins and appointments.
During the COVID‑19 pandemic, outpatient lab services were adjusted to limit the number of people entering Nanaimo Regional General Hospital (NRGH). These precautions are no longer required and patient volumes at the Satellite Lab have become unsustainably high, while the outpatient lab at NRGH is underused.
With these adjustments, Island Health expects to accommodate up to 25 per cent more patient visits across both labs.
Patients can book appointments through:
- WaitWhile online
- WaitWhile Text: 1‑833‑827‑3761
- Laboratory Call Centre: 1‑866‑370‑8355