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Hospital emergency departments in Greater Vancouver

16 hospitals grouped by health authority. Emergency departments treat serious and life-threatening conditions; for minor issues a walk-in clinic or UPCC is usually faster.

Life-threatening emergency? Call 911 now. For health advice any time, call HealthLink BC at 811.
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Fraser Health

8

Vancouver Coastal Health

4

Providence Health Care

2

Provincial Health Services Authority

2

How emergency departments triage

Patients are seen by medical urgency using the Canadian Triage and Acuity Scale (CTAS), not by arrival time — less urgent cases may wait several hours.

1Resuscitation

Immediate, life-threatening.

2Emergent

Potential threat to life or limb.

3Urgent

Could become serious.

4Less urgent

Related to age, distress or risk.

5Non-urgent

Often faster at a walk-in or UPCC.

Questions people ask

Is the emergency department first-come, first-served?
No. Emergency departments triage by medical urgency (CTAS levels 1–5): life-threatening cases go first. If your condition is not urgent, expect a long wait — a walk-in clinic may be faster.
Should I go to the emergency department or a walk-in clinic?
Call 911 or go to the emergency department for chest pain, difficulty breathing, major injuries, or anything life-threatening. For colds, minor infections, rashes, or prescription refills, a walk-in clinic is the right choice. If you’re unsure, call HealthLink BC at 811.
Do I need to call before going to the emergency department?
It’s a good idea. Emergency hours and services can change without notice — some departments have had temporary closures. Call the hospital or check its official website before heading out.
Can I check emergency wait times online?
Yes, for six hospitals — Lions Gate, Richmond, UBC, Vancouver General, Mount Saint Joseph and St. Paul’s — via edwaittimes.ca (external site). Wait times change constantly, and triage by urgency still comes first.

Information only — not medical advice. In an emergency, call 911.