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Fogo Island Health Centre is a community-level health centre located in Fogo, NL, serving the 10 communities that make up the municipality of Fogo Island. Opened in 2004, the facility operates a 24-hour emergency department supported by on-site laboratory, X-ray, dialysis, and long-term care services, as well as Virtual ER capability connecting patients with physicians or nurse practitioners by video. As a rural, island-based facility, it provides essential front-line emergency and primary care; patients with serious or complex conditions may be transferred to James Paton Memorial Regional Health Centre in Gander for higher-level care.
Services & Specialties
24-hour emergency department, Virtual ER (physician or nurse practitioner by video), Laboratory services, X-ray / diagnostic imaging, Dialysis, Acute care, Long-term care, Mental health and addictions counselling, Community health services, Urgent care.
Call ahead at (709) 266-2221 to confirm available services and amenities before making the trip, especially given the island's remote location.
Always dial 911 in a life-threatening emergency — in serious cases, an ambulance can coordinate with the ferry service for transport to a larger hospital in Gander or Grand Falls-Windsor.
Be aware that ferry schedules may affect travel time to the island; check MV Veteran crossing times before visiting, particularly outside of summer months.
For complex or specialized emergencies — such as cardiac, stroke, or trauma — be prepared for a possible transfer to James Paton Memorial Regional Health Centre in Gander, several hours away by road and ferry.
Bring all current medications, health card, and relevant medical records, as specialist services are limited on the island and complete information helps staff provide the best care.
What to Bring
Provincial health card (NL MCP card)
Government-issued photo ID
List of current medications and dosages
Any relevant medical records or test results
Insurance information (if applicable)
Phone charger and entertainment for potential wait times
Snacks and water for yourself or accompanying support person
Warm clothing, as Fogo Island weather can be unpredictable
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Fogo Island Health Centre have a 24-hour emergency department?
Yes, the emergency department at Fogo Island Health Centre is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Virtual ER technology is also available, connecting patients with a physician or nurse practitioner by video when needed.
What happens if I need care that Fogo Island Health Centre cannot provide?
For serious or complex emergencies beyond the facility's community-level capabilities, patients are typically transferred to James Paton Memorial Regional Health Centre in Gander. In emergencies, the provincial ferry can be used to transport patients by ambulance to a larger centre.
How do I get to Fogo Island Health Centre from mainland Newfoundland?
Fogo Island is reached via the provincial government ferry MV Veteran, which operates a 45-minute crossing from Farewell, NL. Two ferries run four crossings daily during the summer season. The centre is located at 9 Center Island Road, Fogo, NL.
Does Fogo Island Health Centre offer services beyond emergency care?
Yes. In addition to the emergency department, the centre offers laboratory services, X-ray, dialysis, long-term care, acute care beds, mental health and addictions counselling, and general community health services.
Is there free parking at Fogo Island Health Centre?
Yes, free parking is available on-site, including accessible spaces. The building also has a ramp and accessible entrances and interior spaces for patients with mobility needs.
What is Virtual ER and is it available at Fogo Island Health Centre?
Virtual ER is a service that ensures 24/7 emergency coverage by connecting patients with a physician or nurse practitioner via video when local physician coverage is limited. Fogo Island Health Centre is equipped with this capability, ensuring a health-care professional is always on-site alongside remote physician support.