Your pharmacist can assess and prescribe for 30+ common conditions including UTIs, cold sores, pink eye, allergies, shingles, contraception. No appointment needed.
Canmore General Hospital operates a 24/7 emergency department at 1100 Hospital Place, serving residents and visitors in Canmore and the broader Bow Valley region. The ER handles major trauma, cardiac events, injuries, and general medical concerns, using the Canadian Triage and Acuity Scale (CTAS) to prioritize care. The department recently underwent a significant renovation to improve patient flow and privacy, and the hospital serves as a regional referral centre for surgical services with a STARS helipad for critical transfers to Calgary.
Services & Specialties
24/7 Emergency Department, Surgical services (regional referral centre), Obstetrical and acute care, Diagnostic imaging and X-ray, Laboratory services, Mental health services, Rehabilitation services, Long-term care, Clinical nutrition and specialty clinics, Bow Valley Community Cancer Centre, Domestic Abuse Response Team (DART), STARS emergency evacuation helipad.
Canmore is a major tourist destination — expect higher ER volumes on long weekends, holidays, and peak ski or hiking seasons, particularly from visitors unfamiliar with the area.
If your situation is non-life-threatening and you can safely travel, consider calling ahead or checking wait times; the hospital primarily refers serious cases to Foothills Medical Centre in Calgary.
The DART program at the ER provides confidential support for individuals experiencing domestic violence — you do not need to be in active crisis to request a referral.
Free Roam Transit buses can get you close to the hospital if you don't have a vehicle — Routes 5C and 5T run year-round at no cost within Canmore.
If you are visiting the Bow Valley and require ongoing prescriptions or specialty care, bring documentation of your medical history and medication list, as the hospital serves a large transient visitor population.
What to Bring
Valid government-issued photo ID (e.g., driver's licence or passport)
Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) card or out-of-province health card
List of current medications and dosages
Any relevant medical history, including allergies
Insurance information if you are a visitor or tourist
Payment method for any applicable fees (e.g., out-of-province patients)
Comfortable clothing, as waits can occur
Phone charger or book to pass time during triage and assessment
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Canmore General Hospital have a 24/7 emergency department?
Yes, the Emergency Department at Canmore General Hospital is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including all holidays.
Can Canmore General Hospital handle major trauma or serious emergencies?
Yes, the ER treats major trauma, cardiac events, serious injuries, and complex medical problems. For cases requiring a higher level of care, the hospital has a STARS emergency evacuation helipad for rapid transfer to Foothills Medical Centre in Calgary.
Is parking free at Canmore General Hospital?
Yes, free visitor parking is available onsite 24/7. As a rural Alberta Health Services facility, no paid parking is required.
What is the Domestic Abuse Response Team (DART) at Canmore General Hospital?
The DART program offers specialized, confidential support for patients of all genders experiencing domestic violence. You do not need to be in crisis to access this service — simply request a referral at the emergency department.
Does Canmore General Hospital get busy during tourist season?
Yes, the hospital serves both local residents and a large number of visitors to the Canmore and Bow Valley area. ER volumes can be higher during peak summer and winter tourist seasons, including holidays and long weekends.
Are there cancer care services available at Canmore General Hospital?
Yes, the Bow Valley Community Cancer Centre is located within Canmore General Hospital, providing oncology services to patients in the region.