Reviews of Nanaimo Regional General Hospital (Hospital)

Robyn Zelickson

Many people complain about NRGH. Try going to a hospital in the US. I had good insurance. Ambulance cost $500. ER costs $400. But lucky you - if you have to stay, they'll apply that to your first night which could be $1000. MRI is $1000. …

Tom

In here and then out of here.You come to this place because it's the last result.My condition causes me to make sudden visits.Every time I'm treated nicely in the most professional way.With each other's sense of humour the visit is usually short and sweet. Thanks everyone.

A K

I’ve never been to a better hospital. I had the opportunity to spend a lot of time in several different units of the hospital this past summer as a family member was gravely ill. Almost every staff member we came into contact with was wonderful - even the nurses in training! I was very impressed and felt comfortable having my loved one in their care. I cannot thank them enough for all of their hard work and compassion.

Kathryn Young

Last Saturday I had come across on the ferry to Nanaimo. We stopped at a store and didn't see a step and fell. I knew my wrist was broken. I drove to the hospital which was 5 minutes away thankfully. …

A M

This is a horrible nightmare, I hate this place I’m sitting here for 2 hours to get stiches and I’m still waiting they won’t let me know the wait time. I hate this planet.

Daryl Brundritt

They dont knock, and always disturb while your sleeping even with a sign on the door. And they have never cleaned our room in the week we've been here.

Kim Windancer

Serious lack of communication... And you feel rushed of the door.. After checking up on a few facts I will update my review accordingly...

jesse davis

Pretty rude all n all couldn't believe it but thankful for them being there

Alanah Milne

Horrible ER intake staff, told them what I preferred and they refused to use that information. As well as taking it upon themselves to change personal information on my health profile. The only decent staff in the ER were the nurses and doctors.

morgan “Legend-afk” sherban

People there don’t care and will do almost anything to try to get you to go to clinics instead even if you tell them repeatedly that you already have gone to the clinics

Norry Kaler

Wife had surgery today and nothing but glowing reviews from the nursing staff and the doctors. Dr Don Wilson was phenomenal. Thank you for giving us some hope in a difficult time. This was the exact opposite of the VGH hospital which was a horrible experience in January.

Jansait Qughondouqa

Imaging and x-rays are amazing! In general all staff are really nice. Some are more helpful than others. …

Bruce Frey

Last week i had a CT Scan and a bone scan. The staff were excellent and helped me with my claustrophobia. They were very friendly and professional. Also on time with both appointments. I had four needles and for the first time, no bruising. Thanks to all the staff. Bruce Frey

Mr. Andersson

Thank you Dr DeLaney and a special thank you to Brigette.

RG whatup

Clean and nice place. The emergency entrance is something to be admired. The Staff are kind and fine.

Alan Christensen

I'm at medical daycare every 2 weeks. The nurses are very polite and skilled. Over the years Nanaimo has grown and it's put a lot of pressure on the hospital staff and management. However it's still one of the best regional hospitals on the island in my opinion.

Alyssa Medwid

The most unfriendly, unkind and laziest nursing staff. Care aids and nurses were dressed very unprofessionally and gossiping in the halls while the patients listened from their rooms. I guess there is a reason this place has such a terrible reputation.

Monir Shahzeidi

This was my second time here and both time I took a very nice care. They explain everything very well and kindly answer your question. Staffs are very polite and welcoming. I was waiting to be called for about an hour and there is a lovely cafeteria if you need coffee or snacks.

James Browne

Despite the shortcomings of being a naturally dirty environment with the number of people served daily I was as well cared for as could be expected. Emergency was typical people thinking emerg doubles as a walk in, cranky drunks and a few …

Leanne Elliott

I went in for emergency knee surgery as an add on. The staff was cheery, warm and super supportive. I don't know who to thank first. You made me smile during my darkest hour. I am now resting at home in relative comfort.

Les Taylor

My wife and I would like to thank each and every one of you for your kindness and professionalism that helped us through a trying time.We were very impressed with the team work of your staff, not to mention the knowledge and patience each of you had for myself and the other patients.This review also includes, everyone in the emergency ward. 1st floor #1025 & 1027. Feb 9 /13 to Feb 14 /13. Thanks for the pacemaker.

Sam Camp

Waiting in an empty emergency room for hours to see a doctor. Nothing short of pathetic service. Brad Camp

Risa Leray

I had an MRI scheduled for 10:30am but showed up at 10am to get checked in, etc. Everyone was so friendly and helpful! I walked in, was directed where to go. Then was checked in, sent to the MRI area and barely had my sheet completed when …

Jay Kell

The nurses and staff blew me away with their kindness, compassion & efficient work. Extra huge shout out to Alise (sp?) in Medical Imaging. Outstanding care. Thank you!

Jamie Hollingshead

Nanaimo Regional General Hospital I am very disappointed in the treatment of my family If you think things couldn't get any worse my father who has dementia was …

Jared Bayley

I had a really good experience at this hospital. I went for a MRI. It was really easy to find the place where I was supposed to be, and everything was explained to me thoroughly. The doctor performing the procedure was knowledgeable, and he had the whole thing over in a jiffy. I also went here into the emergency room once, and the doctor I had was very friendly and listened as I explained everything that was going on. Really appreciate all the work of the staff of this hospital. They do a good job of taking care of people, from what I have seen.

Dylan Mathieson

This may be premature but this is causing great disteress to my Mother brought in by ambulance. It is 60 feet between triage and where she sits. Her purse is gone! Totally unacceptable for a persons valuables being taken while so vulnerable.

Jennifer R

All the staff I encountered were super friendly, patient and caring.

M VW

I will give this place 5 stars because of Gaydene. If you are lucky enough to get her as a nurse you will be fine. She is smart, intuitive, she listens and does what's right. I'm sure there are others and I hope this hospital treats them well. Dr. Carol Most was an excellent doctor and there are others. If I were to rate what happens with people piled up in emergency, these stars would be much different. It is my great hope that this hospital with good caring people, grows to meet the demands of the population.

Ryan S

Staff is super friendly. However they did not record any of my information. After 2 weeks of waiting to hear from a doctor (which I was told was going to contact me) I finally contacted my family doctor. She had no idea I was injured. …

Ida Z

I love our hospital. They are understaffed and we should be more understanding. I always thank God that we DO have a hospital as other countries don't , and people are dying of a common cold or infection. So what if you have to wait in a hallway for 15 or more house...at least you are inside out of the cold or heat. We do not live in a perfect world people, be thankful for the country we live in that has FREE MEDICAL and OUR hospital won't turn you away. I have had my 92 year old mother in the hospital and, YES, she had to wait in the hallway in emergency...SO WHAT!!!!. I, for one am very GREAT FULL for the staff, nurses and doctors. If you want to be mad at anyone you should be mad at the system and the government. Be thankful more than once a year (thanksgiving in Oct.). I would like to take this opportunity to thank the staff, nurses and doctors. You are a God sent to us. You work long hours and you don't get enough thanks from people on harassment... I love you all.

Jesse Kaellis

When I was on the rehab ward Troy and Catherine were exceptional nurses. Also, Paula my physio pushed me hard to get my life back and help me to walk again. Brandon was a compassionate guy and a knowledgeable physiotherapist. All told it was above and beyond, especially since I'm a duel citizen and I know what I would have faced in the USA. Yeah, I almost died but I survived it and I'm back home now and still recuperating from a virulent spinal infection. I also do apprehend the stress that the nursing staff are under due to chronic staff shortages and cutbacks. They all do their best to give proper care and attention. I perceive that some of these people are burnt out but that is to be expected. It takes a certain kind of person to even do this kind of work. Over worked and underpaid is probably a cliche but it applies to the staff at all BC hospitals. I've been a patient in four hospitals, two on the lower mainland and two on the island. I also worked as a security guard at all of the Fraser Health hospitals and got to see a lot there.

Debbie Cotton

Sad the patients are left to deal with those refusing to wear mask. The greater allowed him to sit inside as he was eating candy to sit less then 2 meters from my son. Even supervisor dismissed concerns "he does not have covid". The individual who was apparently just hanging out not even waiting for care. The hospital was extremely busy and heard the nurses complaining there was no clean sheets The ER doctor did take the time to explain things better then most.

Yard Plots

Most of the staff here are great. Unfortunately some seem to be there just for a pay cheque. This hospital needs another mri machine. A nearly 9 month wait is too long. I do like the upgrades in emergency and maternity ward is great

Rick O'shay 54

I had an appointment to get a my second booster shot for rabies. The shot makes you feel terrible. Because of this I was directed to stand in the rain and wait until the nurse could give me the shot. This is unproffesional to say the least.

tanisha storey

This hospital isn't very friendly towards female patients, I went to this hospital Five time in February 2019 because I was spitting up blood and other problems, all the (male) doctors said I just had a cold and sent me home even when they saw me spit up blood, I had H- pylori when the doctors in Victoria found what was wrong a YEAR later they were surprised that I was ok, the male doctors aren't likely to believe a female patient when they saw something is wrong

Dan K

Had to go to emergency to deal with a back issue. There was no wait, extremely nice people, and they got me sorted really quick. I have never had such a good experience at a hospital. Everyone was really nice and they took my pain seriously.

andi Quatell

This is not about the medical care. It is more about patient/family communication. I left a message for a nurse to contact me as I am 2.5 hours away from the hospital. Well over 24 hours I finally heard from my husband's nurse, however she was unable to tell me anything about the plan for my husband. I was promised a call from my husband's Dr so that my questions could be put to rest. I have still not heard from my husband's Dr. The excuse is always "we're very busy". I appreciate that but there is an emotional place for every patient in that hospital. As such it's imperative to keep the family in the loop so we can support the patient. How are we to do this if we're continually ignored?

Zhu Shu

Waited 3 hours midnight with a 2 year old for constant cough, gave up, was going to walk away, doctor made her availabel for us, was very profesionnal and polite. Thank you.

Gay Jones

My Dad spent some time here coming in with pneumonia, he got better and sent home, came back with very bad swelling of the legs, could barely walk. They treated him, got very good care by nursing staff and looked like he was getting better but had an episode one day, almost like he was panicking, tried to get out of the hospital. Apparently one of the doctors there told him(in front of him, my mother and sister) that he was going to die, his heart was going to fail, his kidneys were going to fail etc. He died on October 30th. What kind of doctor would say this? I thought they were concerned about well being of patients, my Dad wanted to live, he probably lost hope at this point.

Kristy-Ann Whalen

Terrible patient care! I have never been to such a rude and unwelcoming place such as this hospital in my life. From triage to the ER, terrible communication, care and a clear lack of empathy.

Brandi Jabs

Never met rude nurses like this before. Absolutely appalling If you hate your job then quit . Aug 19 @ 1:23 am . …

Shali Whalen

Hello, My name is Shali and I just home after spending over 2 days at NRGH in Orthopdics on the 6th floor. The hospital staff were nothing less than spectacular! Superhero spectacular! From the time I arrived at the emergency room to discharge, the staff and Doctors who looked after me were at many times ~ earth angels! Thank you all so much. I wanted to keep track of all of your names but in the foggy haze of pain I was in, I hope you understand how grateful I was for your amazing, amazing work! Tuesday March 9, 2021 Mid~Afternoon. Emergency Room: Blonde hair. Kind eyes. "Melissa" maybe...The team that worked together to make me feel so comfortable and safe until they could secure a bed for me. For those of you who had to cut off my Lulu Lemons LOL! I remember you but not your names ~ I'm sorry. Ortho Floor: Lynne, Felly, Elaine, Luisa, Holly and Esson (sp) of course. And to those ones in the darkness and fogginess who checked in me when I didn't even know they were there. Surgical Team: Christina, Brynn, Dr. Woo and of course the brilliant, Dr. Birchard. The support workers, the food service people ~ all of the people were all amazing! Your people did you proud NRGH! I am definitely going to become a donor! S.

Betty-Lou McBryan

My husband has been in this hospital a few times. He has always had great nurses and doctors. Hospitals are understaffed due to government cut backs. Nurses work 12 hour shifts. Doctors work incredibly long hours. Its hard being patient when you are sick or in pain, but there are protocols and procedures that have to be followed. The other day and girl in emergency was upset they were taking so long. The nurse told her there were 3 people in need of immediate medical care ahead of her. She got angry and left. We were there 10 hours before my husband got admitted because he needed surgery. It's hard to be patient, but that's life.

Deborah Hughes

I have been going to Nanaimo Hospital for many years. All my children were born there. This year has been an exception for my own personal health and have had a couple of operations and procedures. All of my appointments have been an excellent experience with kindness and professionalism.

Tom Clarke

The colonoscopy dept. sends out a "customer satisfaction survey" after a procedure, but it isn't obvious that they read it, they certainly don't follow up with the patient when asked.

Adrian Kraus

Iv been here for only a week and they can't even clean nice clothes. The food tastes like prison food and visiters aren't allowed to bring hygein products. That all for now but trust me there's more!

pamela wong

This hospital is terrible, pray you don't get sick. They don't know how to treat people and quiet frankly I don't know how these employees got their jobs

Rob Go

NRGH is basically a glorified nursing station with a very rare few of adept alchemists. Caught the Dr & Nurse In a lie. The situation as it appeared they screwed up. Then they came out and gave a truth highly educated no that is a myth …

Kelly Lenahan

EXCELLENT ER Care & Protocols at Nanaimo Regional General Hospital Aug. 11/21 My daughter (27) lives in Nanaimo; we live in Ontario. Regardless of a child’s …

Christine MacDonald

Wonderful care right from intake to discharge. Thank you for helping me. CLM

Jolene Macintosh

Thank you to all the doctors and nurses that are helping my mom Val my mom Valerie Johnson in the covid word you've been a very big help my love goes to all of you ❤

Jennifer L

Received the best care with my son today. Everyone had a great sense of humour and we were treated quickly and with great care. Thank you!!

Spud Jack

They called the wrong number to ask me for my healthcare # and then when i tried to call them to tell my healthcare # I had no idea who tried to call me so i went to the support services when i dialed 0 and the lady was kind of rude and talked over me. Said she couldn't help me if i had no name from whoever it was that called me then hung up. If i had a name and a department i wouldn't have needed any assistance trying to figure this out. Now i don't know what to do because I would rather give them my healthcare # than send them money that i don't even even have. I'm pregnant and struggling right now. This does not help me at all.

Rachel Bosch

I went in yesterday for a day surgery to get K wires removed from my knee that were put in last year after I broke my kneecap. The staff were all friendly, patient and supportive as I was getting ready for surgery. I could ask any nurse a question and they would find an answer for me. The only downfall was that when it comes to paper work they were a little disorganized. Maybe it was because I went to the cast clinic to chat with my surgeon about getting my wires out and signed the papers there, but I didn't get a pamphlet of how to prepare for surgery. The receptionist that I called was super helpful and filled me in on most things I needed to know. However some things got missed, For example I didn't know I wasn't supposed to shave until I googled how to use the sponges. Also I didn't know until I got to the hospital not to wear makeup or deodorant (I happened to not anyway just by common sense). After the surgery I wasn't sent home with instruction on dressings or any extra dressings. I called a nurse friend of mine for advice on that. I had also asked for a piece of K wire from my knee, a nurse said she'd look into it and I never heard back. I understand nurses have several things on their mind and even at my work I forget things. Besides the few things that got missed, once again I found the staff to be very good, very supportive, patient and caring. I recommend Nanaimo Hospital, because of their caring staff.

Joshua Judd

Absolute mess. Construction everywhere, traffic control with no idea how to do their job, and staff that doesn’t have a clue where I’m even allowed to enter the building.

Fatima Douhaibi

A friend of mine went to the emergency room, because she was losing alot of blood, and was not seen by a doctor for many hours. Had to wait for almost, 6hrs

Fran Postenka

I was there following a heart attack. I was in emergency for 6 (six!) Days! I never did make it onto the Cardiac ward. After the 6 days, during which I received only medication, I was sent by Ambulance to Victoria for surgery. During my stay at NRGH I was not allowed to get out of bed. Not even to use the toilet. I was requested to move out of the little room I was in several times. An orderly took pity on me and brought me a toothbrush after 4 days. I wouldn't say the care was poor, just a bit nonexistent! I felt abandoned. I only saw staff when time for meds.

Todd Bourcier

Great care and comfort. The staff were great from the front door to my departure. I was diagnosed by a very good doctor who took the time to explain and answer my questions. They utilized a lot of equipment and staff to rule out the unknown. I was very concerned of my condition and they asked a lot of questions to narrow down the diagnosis. Awesome experience, Great job NRGH !!!

Christina Frechette (Pinky)

Great stuff

Zorbies

Within certain departments at this hospital I do not feel safe going there. After listening to a story about how they treat mental health there I will never admit myself there.

shirley wood

I SPEND A LOT OF TIME AT THIS HOSPITAL UNDERGOING VARIOUS TESTING AND I MUST SAY, THIS IS BY FAR, THE BEST HOSPITAL I HAVE EVER BEEN TREATED IN. THIS STAFF IS EXTREMELY PROFESSIONAL, EFFICIENT AND VERY CARING. WITH A HOSPITAL AND STAFF OF THIS CALIBER, WE ARE REALLY BLESSED TO LIVE IN NANAIMO.

John Gislason

Always courteous staff.Always meet their scheduled appointments.

Martha Merchuk

I spent several days in the short stay section and then went back for a procedure the following week. I hated being there instead of at home. The nurses, doctors and other staff made my stay VERY bearable. They were so kind, friendly, comical, empathetic and efficient. The schools they got their training at also deserve mention. I don't know how I would have lasted there without them. Wishing them and theirs nothing but the best!! Many, many thanks. This is the way all hospitals should be run!

B M

2.5 hr wait then the Dr. took 15 secs to diagnose with arthritis and prescribe me with ibuprofen. I felt like that everyone that works here has to try to be nice. I was a nuisance. I didnt deserve care. This Is this Canadian health care.

Debi Forbes

Easy access

Dan Crawley

My wife went in yesterday for knee surgery and I have to say they have treated her like freaking royalty! Couple minute wait for something is no big deal when you realize how many people these ladies and gentlemen are dealing with in a day. Thank you all for taking such good care of my girl everyone, you have no idea how much I appreciate you all!

Mckayla MacAndrew

If I could give no stars I would. Nanaimo emergency is ONE OF THE WORST emergency services I have ever been to. First off the two plus visits we unfortunately had to make were the worst. When someone goes in they expect to see a trained and …

Arlene spilloway

went in to er waited 15 hrs for a bed.. had severe heat stroke /heart trouble.. got a bed to be moved 7 hrs later to ward and to wait in hall another 5 hrs for a bed... then told would have to stay in hall... discharged myself. lot of gossip and chatter between nurses and staff (very loud) 2 nurses were very Rude! and no communication/supervision ..VERY UNORGANIZED.. They NEED an OVERHAUL!!!!! WORST Stay EVER!!! My arms were BRUISED from my Wrist to elbow from IV 's and Needles.

Joanne Andreeff

Having surgery has never been on my Bucket List, but since it was, I am very glad it was at NRGH. Staff from all departments were so fantastic, friendly, helpful and professional that I felt like a visiting VIP. When staff enjoy their …

Paul Gray

To Whom It May Concern: Just a short note to thank the administrative staff, nurses, physiotherapists and doctors for the excellent care they provided me during recent visits to the NRGH. A very positive experience for me. Thanks again Paul Gray

Christine Williams

Very disappointed in my experience. I got hit by a car, very sore and hurt, and the nurse just left a gown and told me to change into it. I cried and cried trying to do it all by myself. Thanks. When discharged, I was waiting for a friend to bring me clothes, the nurse asked me to leave the room . Still injured af, I felt so much anger. No help whatsoever. No sympathy.

devin chapple

Was denied mental help yesterday the way I was sent into the cold was sickening I don't think I will be going back ever again

Mike P

Had a mental health issue, was there for 2 nights. They sent a report to the ministry of public safety to have my license taken away. Kind of wish I didn't phone 911. My whole life has been turned upside down and put on hold because I had a breakdown. Now I'm stuck trying to find a family doctor and specialists to help me get things back on track where as the doctor who had them take my license away does not have to help me get it back. So if your feeling down and out..... maybe don't asked to be taken to nanaimo general

Lindsay Deniet

I broke my wrist while hiking. Dr Culp, Dr McLaren and all nursing staff were absolutely wonderful and beyond friendly. They made the experience as comfortable as possible. I am forever grateful.

Barb F

I have been treated well at the hospital. Staff have been respectful and professional

Susan Abey

I went to emergency today and the nurses were extremely nice but the doctor treated me horribly. He was irritated that I didn't go to ocean side in Parksville cause I am from Parksville. He kept saying that my issues were not an emergency. I am trying to ask him questions and he just walks out the door. He treated me like I was wasting his time. I have not been happy with the health care here in BC since I moved here from Ontario. I have had some extremely rude Doctors since I have been here.

Mouse 2242

Wasnt there for the reason I wanted and even when I went to the Emergency entrance, it took HOURS; 10 hours to be exact. I had to get an epi pen and get my auntie to stab with it cause this hospital didnt help me

guinea pig pizza

The staff in the ICU saved my sister who was on life support for 20 days. The nurses and doctors and respiratory therapy...students...pharmacist and specialists... all amazing!! I cant thank you all enough!!

Danielle Mandrafina

Big shout out to Josh in emerg for being a wonderful nurse. He was caring and attentive ! Keep up the good work, you are appreciated !