How do I get a family doctor in British Columbia?
To be matched with a family doctor in British Columbia, you must first be registered with the BC Health Connect Registry.
If you have valid BC Medical Services Plan (MSP) coverage, you can sign up for the registry through HealthLink BC at :
healthlinkbc.ca/hcr or by calling 8-1-1.
When physicians in your area are able to accept new patients, they use this registry to connect with individuals who are seeking a family provider.
It’s important to keep your contact information up to date so you can be reached when an opportunity becomes available.
While you are waiting to be matched with a family doctor, there are several local healthcare resources available:
Fernie Options for All
Elk Valley Hospital
Open 24 hours
1501 5th Ave, Fernie, BC V0B 1M0
250-423-4453
The Sparwood Emergency Department is open daily from 8am–7pm
Walk-in / urgent care options are available in Cranbrook and Elkford
Elk Valley Maternity Clinic
If you are pregnant, the Elk Valley Maternity Clinic provides care throughout pregnancy and newborn support.
You do not need a family doctor to self-refer.
Located in the Elk Valley Hospital
Fernie Options for Sexual Health
By appt only, book online.
STI Testing
PAP and HPV Screening
All sexual health matters for all
Located in the Elk Valley Hospital
You do not need a family doctor to book an appt online.
Cranbrook Travel Clinic
Travelling out of country and looking for vaccine and safety information, book in with the travel clinic in Cranbrook.
The Fernie Health Unit
The Fernie Health Unit offers a weekly Options Clinic for sexual health services
This is also your vaccine clinic.
Located in the Elk Valley Hospital
Fernie’s Pharmacy on 2nd Ave
Visit their website for more information. Can serve for virtual appointments or as a walk-in for a minor ailment assessment, for contraception or emergency contraception.
Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre