Vancouver

Urgent and primary care centres (UPCCs) provide access to same-day, urgent, non-emergency health care. UPCCs are often open evenings, weekends, and statutory holidays (actual hours vary by clinic). UPCCs are an alternative to visiting the hospital for issues that don’t require emergency care.

Patients who require medical attention within 12 to 24 hours can receive care at UPCCs for conditions including but not limited to the following:

• High fevers
• Sprains and strains caused by minor accidents and falls 
• Minor bleeding or cuts that require stitches 
• Minor burns that may require care 
• Mild to moderate breathing difficulty or asthma attacks 
• Sinus, oral or lung infections 
• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation 
• Skin conditions such as rashes or infections 
• Minor allergic reactions 
• Pain or burning when urinating 
• Non-severe new or worsening pain 
• New or worsening mental health concerns

If you have a serious condition that requires immediate care, including broken bones, chest pain and head injuries, visit the UHNBC emergency room or call 9-1-1 (or local emergency services in your community).

The urgent and primary care centre can respond if you have an urgent mental health and/or substance use concern. We will coordinate appointments to mental health and substance use clinicians and primary care nurses as needed. These appointments will be for managing your immediate needs and connecting you back to your regular health care team.

If you are unsure, call 8-1-1 to speak with a nurse before leaving home.