Pathways | Urgent and Primary Care Centre (UPCC)

Urgent and Primary Care Centre (UPCC) - Nanaimo (Central)

Healthcare Providers, Indigenous Services, Mental Health - Adult, Mental Health - Child & Youth, Public Health, and Sexual Health

Provided by Island Health

UPCCs provide care for non-emergency health concerns within 12 - 24 hours for individuals who cannot access their primary care provider or do not have one.

The Central Nanaimo UPCC provides same-day Urgent Care services for people who need care within 12-24 hours, but do not require an emergency department. Accessible for individuals who do not have access to a family doctor, nurse practitioner, or walk-in clinic in a suitable timeframe. The UPCC can be used if an individual is experiencing a health concern that needs attention but is not an emergency, such as:

Infections or abscesses
Back pain and headaches
Chest, ear, or bladder infections
Coughs, colds, fever, and sore throat
Minor illnesses, fevers or infections in children
Urinary tract infections (also available through pharmacy)
Stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation
Mental health concerns such as low mood, anxiety and depression
Allergic reactions or asthma (immediately call 911 if difficulty breathing)
Cuts, minor wounds or skin conditions/irritation, and rashes or itchy spots
Minor injuries including sprains and strains, cuts requiring stitches, suture removal, and stabilization for hospital transport if required.
Reproductive and sexual health care including pregnancy testing and options, STI testing and treatment, and support and care after sexual assault.

Thunderbird Wing of the Central Nanaimo UPCC
A separate wing of the UPCC clinic which was created to provide culturally safe and discrete patient care. The Cpey Snugin (Cedar Room) is a safe, quiet space for healing, ceremony and connection. It’s soundproof for drumming, specially vented for smudging, and furniture is placed in a circle to welcome support from loved ones and care team while the individual shares, reflects, and has the opportunity to heal. Please connect with staff for more information, or to learn about the Thunderbird digital space.

How to Access

The UPCC is not a replacement for routine care from a family physician, including treatment like chronic disease management, prescription renewals, referrals, completion of medical forms, treatment for Persons with Disability (PWD), or the provision of doctors' notes.
This clinic does not provide second opinions for ongoing issues.
If unsure of the type of care required, call 8-1-1 to speak with a nurse 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Appointments are required: Call when the clinic opens to book a same-day appointment (walk-ins are not accepted) at 1-833-688-8722 ext. 1, 6.

1-833-688-8722 ext. 3, 1

Website: https://www.islandhealth.ca/our...

3260 Norwell Drive, Nanaimo, British Columbia, V9T 1X5

Open 7 days a week, 8:00AM to 8:00PM, year-round (including all statutory holidays)

Wheelchair accessible.

Cost: No cost