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Cowichan District Hospital is the primary acute care facility for Duncan and the broader Cowichan Valley region, including communities such as Chemainus, Cobble Hill, Cowichan Bay, and Crofton. The Emergency Department operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, with 17 care spaces and triage-based prioritization to ensure the most critical patients are seen first. The hospital also provides intensive care, diagnostic imaging, rehabilitation, specialty outpatient clinics, and serves as a training site for UBC Island Medical Program students and residents.
Services & Specialties
24/7 Emergency Department, Intensive Care Unit (ICU), Diagnostic imaging services, Convalescent and rehabilitative care, Specialty outpatient clinics, Chronic disease education programs, Medical student and resident training (UBC Island Medical Program).
Triage is based on medical urgency, not arrival order — the most critical cases are treated first, so be prepared for a wait if your condition is less severe.
If your condition is not life-threatening, consider visiting a same-day or urgent care clinic in the Cowichan Valley to reduce your wait and free up ER resources.
The hospital serves a wide regional catchment area including Chemainus, Crofton, and Cobble Hill — account for travel time if coming from outlying communities.
Free Wi-Fi is available on-site, so bring a fully charged phone or tablet to stay connected or entertained during your visit.
Patients requiring highly specialized services such as advanced pediatric care or complex psychiatry may be transferred to facilities in Nanaimo or Victoria — ask your care team if you have concerns.
What to Bring
BC Services Card or provincial health card
Government-issued photo ID
List of current medications including dosages
List of known allergies
Any relevant medical records or recent test results
Emergency contact information
Phone charger or portable battery pack
Snacks and water for potential wait times
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Emergency Department at Cowichan District Hospital open 24/7?
Yes, the Emergency Department at Cowichan District Hospital in Duncan, BC is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including holidays.
How does triage work at Cowichan District Hospital's ER?
When you arrive, a triage nurse will assess the urgency of your condition. Patients are seen based on medical severity, not the order they arrive. Life-threatening cases are always prioritized.
Is parking free at Cowichan District Hospital?
Yes, parking is free at the Gibbins Road location. There is no charge to park, which is a benefit for patients and visitors who may be spending extended time at the hospital.
What communities does Cowichan District Hospital serve?
The hospital is the main acute care facility for the Cowichan Valley and serves Duncan, Chemainus, Cobble Hill, Cowichan Bay, Crofton, and surrounding communities in the region.
Is there a new Cowichan District Hospital being built?
Yes, a replacement hospital is under construction and expected to open around 2027. It will be named Quw'utsun Valley Hospital / Quw'utsun Hulitun-ew't-hw and will expand the ED from 17 to 45 care spaces and increase overall capacity from 148 to 204 beds.
Is free Wi-Fi available at Cowichan District Hospital?
Yes, free guest Wi-Fi is available throughout the facility. Connect to the wireless network called 'IslandHealthGuestWiFi' on your device and follow the on-screen instructions to get online.