Vancouver Women’s Health Collective

–same day appts.
–safe space for ALL women
–clothes ‘wardrobe’ for women in need
–breakfast pastries for those who need ‘em (on the day of my visit, could be standard fare)
–haircuts
–computer usage
–phone usage
–yoga & art classes (donations accepted)
This collective is a true gem. Beyond the fact that one can access gratis medical visits – thanks, Canada! – this clinic is a ‘clean, well-​lighted’ & welcoming space for women from all social strata.
My visit with the RN began ten minutes after my 10.30 appt. time. The client just before me had left at about a quarter past the hour. Be prepared to wait a bit, I guess.
Not used to not having to pay for every little thing regarding health care, I was compelled to make a financial donation after my visit as both a thank-​you & a way to support what is a very necessary women’s institution. When I inquired, I was told that the collective would gladly accept a donation of women’s clothing. Preferring to make a monetary donation, I was sent to chat with the clinic’s director. PayPal would be the way to go, if one is so inclined.

After a week of trying to make an appointment for a well woman exam and not being able to book an appointment less than two months away I stumbled across an article about the Vancouver Women’s Health Collective. I gave them a call and almost dropped the phone in shock when I was told I could come in later that SAME DAY! I couldn’t leave work on such short notice so I made an appointment for 3 days hence. I was a little trepidatious about the clinic’s location on Hastings but even though the area is a touch sketchy the clinic itself is VERY clean, warm, bright and welcoming. The super friendly staff let me into the woman only space, I filled out a single sheet of paperwork and was called back by the nurse practitioner, Tamara. She was the definition of professional. The exam part of our meeting went by very fast but she took almost half an hour discussing my health concerns and making arrangements for me to receive follow up care. I never felt rushed and left feeling like I’d been truly listened to. I couldn’t have asked for a better experience and will definitely be back. Highly recommended!

I’ve had the nurse practitioners here as my primary care for about a year now. I really appreciate them for several reasons:
— it’s easy to get an appointment on the same day
— the appointments are scheduled in half hour chunks, so I never feel rushed
— they are so kind and caring: they always tell me to come back if I have more problems, and work with me to get to the bottom of things.
If you’re a woman looking for a walk-​in clinic in the area, I highly recommend them.