Health Care
Overview
British Columbia has five regional health authorities that deliver health services to meet the needs of the population within their respective geographic regions. By working together with the Ministry of Health and Ministry of Mental Health and Addictions, as well as health organizations, communities and leaders, Interior Health delivers services and solutions that make a positive difference in the lives of everyone in the BC Interior.
Providing a wide range of integrated health care programs and services, the Interior Health Authority is the hub of health care for the Central Okanagan. Interior Health’s services include in-hospital as well as a wide variety of other important services including:
Resources
Interior Health Information for Newcomers
Whether you’re new to Canada, British Columbia, or moving within the province learn how health care is delivered and how to access it.
For eligible B.C. residents, the Medical Services Plan pays for medically required services of physicians and surgeons, and dental or oral surgery performed in a hospital. In Canada, public health insurance is available to eligible residents. Canadian citizens and permanent residents can apply for provincial health insurance.
HealthLink BC provides reliable non-emergency health information and advice in British Columbia. Information and advice is available by telephone, their website, a mobile app and a collection of print resources. You may call HealthLinkBC at 8-1-1 toll-free in B.C., or for the deaf and the hard of hearing, contact us using Video Relay Services (VRS) or Teletypewriter Relay Services (TTY).
The HealthLink BC Directory provides listings for health services provided by the provincial government, provincial health authorities, and non-profit agencies across the province. You can search for walk-in clinics, emergency rooms, hospitals, mental health programs, home care programs, pharmacy services, laboratory services, and more.
An Urgent and Primary Care Centre is available when you have a non-life threatening condition and need to see a health-care provider within 12 to 24 hours, but do not have a family doctor or nurse practitioner, can not access a walk-in clinic, or are unable to get an appointment with your regular doctor.
Mental Health Services and Resources
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health – you’re not alone. Learn how to access different support services and read helpful resources. Reach your local mental health and substance use centre for community-based supports by calling 310-MHSU (6478).
The Kelowna General Hospital (KGH) is in the Okanagan health service area and is one of two Interior Health tertiary referral hospitals. Located in Kelowna, KGH offers high-level, specialty medical care including 24 hour emergency and trauma services, ambulatory and outpatient clinics, and diagnostic/paramedical services.