Nanaimo

Those looking explicitly for addiction resources, including access to addiction treatment and addiction medicine, should be directed to Access Central.

The AAC is the single point of access to Vancouver Coastal Health Mental Health and/or Substance Use services. It offers an alternative to the emergency department for people having a non-life-threatening mental health and/or substance use issue.

Staff includes Registered Nurses, Registered Psychiatric Nurses, Psychiatrists, Social Workers, Occupational Therapists and reception staff.

Eligibility: Services are limited to City of Vancouver residents ages 17+ who are experiencing a non-life-threatening Mental Health and/or Substance Use issue. If you are unsure, call.

How to Access: Eligible adults can self-refer by calling or walking into the clinic. Families and friends concerned about a loved one can either call and let them know any details or send a faxed referral, but this is not required to access care. AAC follow up will depend on clinical risk profile and patient ability to navigate services independently. If a family practitioner wants to refer a patient they can call in and let them know any details, but this is not required to access care.
Services not provided by AAC include:

• Prescription refills
• Counselling or referral to counselling services
• ADHD assessments
• Referral to private psychiatrists as this must be provided through a family physician
• Medical notes for work or school (can be provided by a family physician)
• Housing applications
• Disability applications
• Court-ordered assessments
• Second opinion

Referral Instructions: Eligible adults can self-refer to the AAC by calling or walking into the clinic.Self referral is encouraged. Family physicians and external agencies can also refer by completing the form below and faxing it (See fax number below).