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Emergency Services
After Hours Consultations
We strive to address urgent medical needs on the same day whenever possible. For more details, please review our clinic policies.
For severe after-hours medical concerns that require immediate attention and cannot wait until the next business day, we recommend seeking care at the Cowichan District Hospital or one of the local walk-in clinics. All physicians at Protea Medical have hospital privileges and will be contacted by the Emergency Department if necessary.
While walk-in clinics are an option, we encourage patients to book a same-day appointment at our clinic the following day. This approach ensures continuity of care, as walk-in clinics do not have access to your full medical history.
988 Suicide Crisis Helpline
Canadians across the country now have access to vital support by calling or texting 988 whenever they need it most. This free service ensures that you will always reach someone who is available to help, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, without ever encountering a busy signal. Whether you are experiencing a crisis or simply need someone to talk to, 988 provides immediate access to compassionate support.
The service offers trauma-informed and culturally affirming support for anyone experiencing thoughts of suicide or concerned about someone they know. While the primary focus of 988 is suicide prevention, no one who reaches out will be turned away. Regardless of your location in Canada, by calling or texting 988, you can connect with a trained responder who is ready to listen without judgment and provide the necessary support. This ensures that help is always available, offering a lifeline to those in need.
911 Emergency Helpline
If you experience symptoms of a serious illness, such as a heart attack or stroke, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, or the sudden onset of neurological symptoms should never be ignored. In such cases, please call 911 immediately to ensure you receive prompt and appropriate care. Emergency medical services are equipped to provide life-saving interventions and transport you to the nearest hospital for further evaluation and treatment.
For injuries that require urgent imaging, such as fractures or severe sprains, it is best to proceed directly to the emergency room. Emergency departments have on-site radiology services available, allowing for quick and accurate diagnosis of your condition. This ensures that you receive the necessary imaging and treatment without delay, helping to prevent complications and promote a faster recovery. Remember, timely medical attention is essential for both serious illnesses and urgent injuries.
811 Nurses Helpline
If you are unsure about the urgency of your medical concern, you can call the Nurses Help Line at 811 for further advice or recommendations. This free provincial health information service is available within British Columbia and is operated by HealthLink BC, a division of the Ministry of Health. By calling 811, you can speak directly with a registered nurse who can assess your symptoms, provide guidance on the appropriate level of care, and offer recommendations on whether you should seek immediate medical attention or schedule an appointment with your family physician.
The Nurses Help Line at 811 is a valuable resource for residents of BC, offering peace of mind and professional medical advice at no cost. Available 24/7, this service ensures that you have access to reliable health information and support whenever you need it. Whether you have a pressing health concern or simply need reassurance, the experienced nurses at 811 are ready to assist you, helping you make informed decisions about your health and well-being.