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Dr. Walter Templeman Health Care Centre is a small, community-level health facility located in Wabana, Bell Island, Newfoundland, serving approximately 2,800 island residents. The emergency department operates 24/7 and functions as a stabilization and transfer point, meaning patients with serious or complex conditions will be assessed and transferred to a larger hospital in St. John's when required. This facility is best suited for residents needing urgent or primary care, minor procedures, or initial emergency assessment on the island.
Services & Specialties
24/7 Emergency and urgent care, Stabilization and transfer for serious cases, Blood collection and laboratory services, Diagnostic imaging and X-ray, Inpatient services, Long-term care, Outpatient clinics, Minor procedures, Palliative care, Mental health and crisis support, Addictions support (drugs, alcohol, and gambling), General community mental health services, Primary health care clinic, Community health services, Family physician access.
If your condition is life-threatening, call 911 immediately — the ER can stabilize you and arrange transfer to a larger hospital in St. John's if needed.
Plan your ferry trip carefully, especially in winter or bad weather, as rough conditions can delay or suspend service and affect your ability to reach or leave the island.
For non-emergency medical questions at any hour, call the NL HealthLine at 811 to speak with a registered nurse before making the trip to the ER.
Primary health care, lab, and outpatient services are only available Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m., so schedule routine visits accordingly.
Call the facility at 709-488-2821 ahead of your visit to confirm specific services and amenities are available on the day you plan to come.
What to Bring
Valid government-issued photo ID (e.g., driver's licence, passport)
NL provincial health card (MCP card)
List of current medications, dosages, and allergies
Any relevant medical records or recent test results
Provincial health insurance or supplemental insurance information
Phone charger or portable battery pack
Snacks and water, as wait times can vary
A support person if possible, especially if transfer to St. John's is a possibility
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Dr. Walter Templeman Health Care Centre have a full emergency department?
Yes, the facility operates a 24/7 emergency department. However, it is a small, community-level ED. For serious or complex conditions, patients are stabilized on site and transferred to a larger hospital in St. John's via ferry and/or medical transport.
How do I get to Dr. Walter Templeman Health Care Centre from the mainland?
Bell Island is only accessible by ferry. Take the Labrador Marine car ferry from Portugal Cove Ferry Terminal to Bell Island Ferry Terminal — the crossing takes about 20 minutes. Ferry service begins at 5:55 a.m. daily. Keep in mind that weather can affect ferry availability, which is important to consider in an emergency.
What mental health services are available at the Bell Island health centre?
The centre offers mental health and crisis support, general community mental health services, outpatient mental health services, and addictions support for drugs, alcohol, and gambling. Family physician access is also available for mental health concerns.
Is Dr. Walter Templeman Health Care Centre free to use?
Yes, insured health services are provided at no direct cost to patients covered by the Newfoundland and Labrador Medical Care Plan (MCP). Services are available to patients of all ages.
What are the hours for non-emergency services at the facility?
The primary health care clinic, laboratory, X-ray, and outpatient services are available Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., except on statutory holidays. The emergency department remains open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Is the facility accessible for patients with mobility challenges?
Yes. The building features accessible parking spaces, ramps, accessible entrances, and accessible interior spaces, making it suitable for patients with mobility needs.