Emergency

News release

Where to go for care during the winter season

December 9 2025

Vancouver, B.C. – Whether facing a minor ailment or a serious condition, receiving the right care at the right place and time is vital – especially during the winter season. VCH offers a range of health-care access points for medical needs, from non-urgent to critical. Residents should familiarize themselves with these options to ensure they can access the most suitable care setting for their needs.

For non-life-threatening conditions and health concerns there are many options for care over the holidays, including speaking with your family doctor or nurse practitioner, calling HealthLink BC at 8-1-1, visiting an Urgent and Primary Care Centre or attending a walk-in clinic. If you require an urgent medication refill or help with minor ailments such as allergies, pink eye or dermatitis, speak with your pharmacist. Additional information and resources are available at www.vch.ca/wintercare.

If you have a critical or life-threatening condition, such as a major injury, trouble breathing, symptoms of a stroke or heart attack, loss of consciousness or severe bleeding, call 9-1-1 or go to the nearest emergency department. Do not delay seeking emergency care.

Finally, preventing injury is an important way to avoid needing medical attention or a trip to the emergency department. While the holidays are a time for celebration and outdoor activities, the Winter Care webpage offers practical tips for avoiding slips, falls and other common injuries during the winter.

"Even the little decisions we make on a daily basis can have a big impact on our safety and well-being during these chilly months. Knowing when and where to seek medical care is important, but it's also important to know how to take care of our health to avoid disease and harm,” said Dr. Ingrid McFee, Medical Director at Lions Gate Hospital. 

Below is vital information for the winter season, encompassing preventative strategies, self-care tips, and clear guidance on where to access medical care, when needed. More comprehensive information is available at vch.ca/wintercare.  

Know Where to Go for Care:

This guide presents a general overview of care options for different needs. Health-care services and offerings may differ by location. VCH includes region-specific information at vch.ca/wintercare to assist in identifying local resources in specific communities.

  • Family doctor or nurse practitioner: Call your family practitioner to book an appointment. If you don’t have one, register at HealthLinkBC.ca.
  • General health questions and advice: Call 8-1-1 day or night to speak to a navigator who can help find resources and services near you or connect you with a nurse, pharmacist, dietitian, exercise professional, or physician based on your health concern. 
  • Urgent and Primary Care Centre (UPCC): Visit a UPCC for urgent, non-emergency care that needs attention within 12-24 hours, such as high fevers, cuts that require stitches or sinus infections. Find a location at vch.ca/UPCC.
  • Pharmacy: Talk to a pharmacist for prescription refills, minor ailments like pink eye, hemorrhoids or a urinary tract infection.
  • Mental health and substance use: Visit vch.ca/MentalHealth for a list of resources.
  • Emergencies: Call 9-1-1 or go to the Emergency Department for critical and life-threatening conditions. Check wait times at EDWaitTimes.ca.
  • Vaccinations: Get your flu or COVID-19 shot at a pharmacy, walk-in clinic or from your family practitioner.

Winter Health and Wellness Tips: 

  • Preventing slips and falls:
    • Beware of icy conditions as everyone is at risk.
    • Walk safely by planning routes, choosing cleared pathways, opting for non-slip footwear, and considering the use of canes or walking aids.
    • Seniors, remember many falls can be prevented. Stay active and adhere to health guidelines to maintain your strength.
  • Staying active and playing safe:
    • Embrace recreational activities for their extensive health benefits.
    • Wear appropriate protective gear, such as helmets and pads, and consider taking lessons for proper instruction.
    • Learn about injuries, risk factors, and safety measures at activesafe.ca.
  • Ensuring road safety during winter conditions:
    • Budget extra time for travel and be mindful of weather conditions.
    • Remain vigilant to avoid driver fatigue.
    • Equip your vehicle with winter tires and an emergency kit.
  • Keeping up with vaccinations:
    • Influenza vaccines are recommended for everyone six months and older.
    • COVID-19 vaccines are recommended for everyone six months and older.
    • Stay informed about vaccine recommendations via the province's Get Vaccinated system.
  • Practicing good respiratory hygiene:
    • Regularly clean your hands and avoid face-touching.
    • If feeling unwell, stay home and limit contact, especially with vulnerable individuals.
    • Shield coughs/sneezes using your elbow.

Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH)

Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH) is committed to delivering exceptional care to 1.2 million people, including the First Nations, Métis and Inuit in our region, within the traditional territories of the Heiltsuk, Kitasoo-Xai'xais, Lil'wat, Musqueam, N'Quatqua, Nuxalk, Samahquam, shíshálh, Skatin, Squamish, Tla'amin, Tsleil-Waututh, Wuikinuxv, and Xa'xtsa. VCH is British Columbia’s hub of health-care innovation, research and academic excellence, providing specialized care to patients throughout the province. Learn more at vch.ca.

Contact:

Vancouver Coastal Health
media@vch.ca
604.202.2012 (after-hours)