Same-day and next-day care

Get care in person or online at an Island Health clinic for concerns that need attention within 12–24 hours. Most clinics require an appointment, so call to book.

Browse the clinics listed below to find one near you.

Are you having a life-threatening emergency?

For life-threatening or emergencies such as chest pain, stroke, overdose, or severe injury, call 9-1-1 or go directly to the nearest emergency department.

When to choose

This service may help if: 

  • You need care soon, but it’s not an emergency
  • You feel sick or in pain, but it’s not life-threatening
  • You have a minor injury (like a cut or sprain). If you think something might be broken, check if the clinic has X-ray or other tests
  • Need mental health support
  • Need a prescription refill, a check-in, or follow-up care. 

Services vary by location. Check the clinic’s page to see what’s offered.

How to begin

 

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 Call your clinic first, if you have a family doctor or nurse practitioner. Tell them it's urgent and ask if you can get seen today or tomorrow. 
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Book by phone, if you don't have a doctor/NP or they are unavailable. 

  • Central or North Vancouver Island: call the clinic when it opens. 
  • Southern Vancouver Island: you can now call anytime to request an appointment

A trained team member will ask a few questions about your symptoms to understand how urgent your concern is. This helps us:

  • Make sure people with the most urgent needs are seen first
  • Match you with the right provider
  • Direct you to the best care option if a UPCC isn’t the right place

You may be offered:

  • A same-day appointment
  • A next-day appointment
  • Advice about another care option
   

Have your BC Services Card or PHN and be ready to describe your symptoms.

What to expect

Before you go

  • Bring your BC Services Card or PHN or provincial ID card (fees may apply).
  • Bring a list of medications you take.
  • Arrive a little early to check in for your appointment.
  • Be ready to describe your symptoms and what you want help with.

When you arrive

  • Check in at the front desk and share why you’re here.
  • If you need support (language, mobility, or other accommodations), tell staff — help is available.
  • You may be asked if you identify as First Nations, Métis, or Inuit to support culturally safer care. It’s your choice to answer.
  • If you start to feel worse while waiting, tell staff right away.

Your visit

  • You’ll be seen by a doctor, nurse, or another care provider. We’ll explain who you’re seeing and why.
  • You’ll have time to ask questions, and you’ll leave with clear next steps and what to do if symptoms change.

Care locations

North Island

Central Island

South Island

More services

Find Virtual Care

Talk to a doctor, nurse practitioner, or other health professional by phone or video anywhere in B.C.
Register to get a family doctor or nurse practitioner

Add your name to the BC Health Connect Registry and get on your local waitlist.

Register now
Get Mental Health Support Now

Find urgent mental health and substance use care—counselling, harm reduction, treatment.
Not sure where to start?

Call 8-1-1 to talk to a patient navigator about the support you might need.