Cowichan District Hospital - Duncan, British Columbia

Cassandra G.

Absolutely wonderful, prompt support from paramedic Jan alongside ER doctors and nurses on site this evening. My son had his first anaphylactic reaction since he was small and we were treated with so much care, consideration, education and kindness from the first point of contact to our departure. Forever grateful for their amazing work. ❤️

gioia E.

Thank you to all ermerg staff and the Drs and nurses on floor 2. Our dad Barry Roome was in the best hands. He was treated with so much respect and kindness, as was our family. The staff made what was a very difficult time, much easier, as they were doing everything to make our dad comfortable as well as answering all our questions. Thank you so much. 🩷

Nel G.

I’m currently exploring legal action due to the severe medical mistreatment I experienced at Cowichan Hospital. I came in multiple times with symptoms like pseudo seizures, chest pain, and loss of motor function including vision and I was repeatedly dismissed, accused of faking, and labeled a “safety threat” instead of receiving proper medical care. I was also lied to and told by the doctor that he didn't have a CPSID number in fear of repercussions.

A nurse even told me I wouldn’t receive help if I didn’t "calm down" despite being in the middle of a seizure and clearly in distress. On another visit, an IV was inserted incorrectly and fluid was forced into my arm against my will, which has left me with long-term numbness and suspected nerve damage.

When I tried to advocate for myself, I was treated like a problem, not a patient. Cowichan staff also withheld pre-arranged medical services because they assumed I was faking, even though these appointments had been formally set up.

This is not only unethical. It’s dangerous. I was having ongoing functional seizures and strokes and the care I needed was refused based on harmful assumptions.

The trauma from all of this forced me to leave the province entirely, abandoning my life and support network in BC. This has left me in serious emotional and financial debt.

I wouldn’t wish what I went through at Cowichan Hospital on anyone.

J G.

This is the worst service from the ER. I have been there twice within the last few months with severe injuries. I am 77 years old and the 2nd time I had fallen out of bed, and broke 7 ribs! I was kept waiting for over 7 hours, experiencing excruciating pain. It didn't matter that I arrived by ambulance, they just stuck me in the waiting room on a very uncomfortable chair. I am not a racist at all. Everyone is equal to me. However, it soon became obvious to me, on both occasions, that they prioritize First Nations, no matter how minor the ailment, over the rest of the patients. It is disgraceful that seniors are rated as 2nd class citizens at all the hospitals. Yes, I agree with equal rights, but don't prioritize a 30 year old patient with a sore back (no wonder her back was sore, she probably weighed over 300 lbs.) over a senior with 7 broken ribs!

Eva-Maria S. (.

They might make you wait several hours with a life-threatening condition if you don’t have chest pains. Their priority and the only thing they seem to recognize as life threatening are bleeding and chest pains. Their priority ER doctor also tried to gaslight me on the symptoms of my condition!

Kristin

Booked lab appointments mean nothing indifference in providing the services needed but are quite happy to suggest you drive to Victoria for blood tests. If the lab reflects the standard of patient care for this hospital choose an alternative.

jackson T.

I understand the health care industry is difficult at all times especially now but maybe the triage attendants and nurses need some updated attitude training at the emergency dept. not hard to put on a smile ladies and gentlemen and treat people with respect!

Charlotte M.

Incredible thoughtful care! I was in for a day surgery this afternoon. The nurses all kept me constantly posted on the wait time, as there was an emergency ahead of me so my surgery was delayed a few hours. They provided me with as many heated blankets as I needed, braided my hair, put on my booties, we had great conversations. They smiled lots and were very reassuring. I never felt worried or nervous. They also looked like they were having a good afternoon themselves despite how busy it was, so I didn’t get any stress vibes from them. The communication from nurses, surgeons, and anesthesiologist was fantastic from start to finish.

I truly appreciate the care. Thank you so much