Reviews of Medical Arts Centre (Hospital)

Chris Trinkwon

A safe place to see the doctor with a pharma there

Rob Penner

I've been here a couple of times and I've always been dealth with professionally and courteously. I've noticed some people expecting immediate service as soon as they walk in the door, we'll, that's not the way it works folks, so I think some people are posting unfair reviews. But, take it from me, this is a good clinic.

Michael Walters

I went in the first time saying I had a bacterial infection and was really sick, the next day I got severe strep throat and treated it with salt water and ibuprofen. When I was in extensive pain and was no longer sleeping I went back in, about 5 days after the first visit. Dr seemed annoyed I was back, barely looked at my throat and said he would do a swab. Three days go by and I hear nothing. And enough friends had said I looked extremly I’ll and sent me to emergency. The dr told me I was fighting a severe bacterial infection and was really sick and the walk in had received my results and chose not to tell me. I finally got my antibiotics from the hospital. Stay away from this place its just a waste of time and they will make you more sick.

Dave Macdonald

Am a huge fan of the clinical team, but not a fan of the admin team. I had an appointment for today and called in ~30 minutes after my appointment to see what was up. I was advised It was *only* 30 minutes late (my time doesn't matter) and I should wait. 2.5 hours after my appointment, I got an apologetic call from the doc saying he got called into hospital - surely that might have been known 30 minutes after my appointment.

Lois Peterson

Very well managed and calm environment. Friendly and courteous desk staff. And attentive care from the doctor. Well worth the trip from the North end for a walk-in visit. This will be my regular medical centre until I can find a regular GP.

Shareen Buck

I found the staff very nice and friendly

Mike Lothbrok

Forget the staff here. They just lie to you about anything Worksafe related. Need a Return to Work form filled out, which is one page? "NOPE WE CAN'T DO THAT HERE!" If that was so, why have other been able to? Absolutely HORRIBLE lying staff at the front desk. People like this need to leave the job so that the people that NEED help, get it.

Sarah Howe

Medical Arts Centre is the only clinic in Nanaimo taking walk-in folks at the moment. I don't have a family doc and have recently returned from overseas. The front desk staff and doctors have been absolutely AMAZING. I have been so impressed with all of the doctors that I have seen. Thank you Medical Arts Centre for being such great, kind and efficient clinic.

Caleb Herle

AMAZING. the receptionists are super nice and the doctors are really nice and affective as well. odds are you will be waiting for a while but its worth it. I get treated better here than my family doctor which is why I keep coming back. I've had 4 different doctors here and had a great experience with each one. the long wait times for walk-in is the only downside

Sundip Hothi

Refused service to a sick baby. The receptionist who did that should be fired

Sarah Cody

Nice doctors, nice receptionists

Jasper Michelle Thompson

The receptionist are so nice but the doctors....... when you return with the same problem more than one time and they insist on their diagnosis, instead of continuing the investigation if the disease is not responding as expected to time or treatment. they pretty much use a script for patients, but it is protocol-driven, and used to pick up on medical red flags. It is well-tested, verified questioning to enable us to make a proper diagnosis. But it doesn't work. they will judge you on how you look and your age and push you awag again and again until your someone else's problem because thing ended up being more serious then the doctor was willing to accept because his original diagnosis was not that. Or just so far into the whole cash wise from being unable to work and them overlooking me time after time

Randy H

Incompetent staff

Madison Makepeace

Rebecca was very helpful.

Dano Murillo

I told the doctor that I was filling empty inside and instead of giving me even just some encouraging words he said there is nothing I can do for you. Wow if I was suicidal and kill myself the doctor should be accountable for my dead. But I am not at that point, yet

Marie Bakewell

All in all its been a satisfactory experience for me. They are improving slowly.

Alicia He

Could be a bit wait but the nurses and the doctors there are actually care! Thank you for serving Nanaimo as the only OPENED walk in clinic

Chris Penwell

My doctor is caring and knowledgeable, the staff are kind and punctual, and it's very clean.

quimachi

front desk staff was very unfriendly, reasonable during this pandemic, I imagine they are stressed beyond belief. However they told me I couldn't see a Dr as my prescription is on a list of medications that can't be filled during COVID. Had to call the general hospital and talk to three different people to find out that's not true for my medication and it could have been filled had I been able to have a call or visit with a Dr there. I'm sure it is insanely hectic there daily but I would have appreciated better care during this difficult time. We are all in this together.

D K

Absolutely terrible clinic, just go to the hospital. I arrived at 805am. Open for 5 minutes and somehow there was 13 people ahead of me. That said come back in an hour.... so an hour later they told me to come back at 930... now its almost 10am and I am still waiting... the doctors are dismissive and don't help let alone even listen. They make snap judgements without basis and no testing to back up their diagnosis. Dont waste your time and just go to the hospital. At least if you are going to wait for hours on end, at least the hospital has competent staff.

Craig “Chefy Mac” McIntosh

Terrible. They make you physically come in to put your name on a list to be seen by a doctor. You’d think by now they would get with it. Why put high risk patients or anyone for that matter at risk of being exposed to covid or other things, instead of having an online or call in appointment service? Ridiculous and stuck in the past. Times have moved on, are they actually going back to the old way of doing things, where they make you come in and wait for hours at their convenience and our inconvenience? How is this better for the patient? Get with it!

Yunah Lee

Quick care

Sukhi Sangha

Laurie at the front reception is amazing! Very friendly and helpful. Great experience at this clinic!

Hippy Chick

Staff is friendly and helpful but there are long wait times.

M Green

Not a great place, but not all the doctors are bad. Reception isn't perfect, but they get the job done, generally. I once had a walk-in appointment and while it was brief and they said they couldn't do anything for me, they still looked into it and I felt like it was a strong educated assertion. Now, my family Doctor (O'Farrel) is the primary reason this is a bad clinic. She misdiagnoses, she diagnoses without examination based on the easiest answer, she has said it's best to self-diagnose with the internet instead of coming in, she's diagnosed drug side-effects of swelling as "getting fat", she diagnosed mental illness as needing sun and having no friends, and she loses her composure the second you don't accept everything she has to say without question. I've also never been informed of ANY test results, ever. I had to bring them up in a later appointment to find any of them out (if she had the records). She feels like a kind doctor, as long as you never look into anything she says or have anyone else look at your problems. She's concerned about swift diagnosis and patient rotation, not health. (I very nearly question her credentials) That said I've met with a couple other doctors there via family members. They are very different from each other and O'Farrel is likely just the worst of the bunch. From what I hear Dr.Love is absolutely fantastic.

Tamare White-Wolf

They are the least compassionate receptionists I’ve ever experienced. I called after an appointment to request a call from attending doctor in order to arrange more meds n exrays. They are aware that I can’t walk n I’m caring for an elder with Alzheimer’s n believe it or not told me they couldn’t do that I must come in... n while I cried they said I wasn’t belong fair m hung up on me.

Margaret Delves

Endured 2 hour wait last night. Not complaining, my own clinic was closed. No one else open. This clinic provides a great community service. Very happy with my treatment.

Maggie Conners

They do get results back to me at an appropriate time. Scheduling appointments over the phone is normally very easy. My family doctor is here and he is the best doctor I have ever known. Something on the wall to keep children occupied while waiting would be extremely helpful but I understand why it's not available.

James F

My family doctor works out of this clinic and he is a great doctor, that is not where my complaints lie. The reception staff at this clinic are the rudest group of people I've ever met. They are always trying to rush you and they are ALWAYS extremely rude and dismissive. I have been going to this clinic for around 5 years now and not once have I had a positive experience with the reception staff; a little hint of compassion once in awhile would go a long way. They should all be absolutely ashamed of themselves for treating people this way. This clinic needs a complete overhaul and better management. I know most of us don't have a choice, but if you do, avoid this clinic like the plague unless you are fine with being treated like cattle headed for slaughter.

Theo Artzoglou

I waited nearly 2 hours and when i finally got my turn I was dismissed with some untested doctor's assumptions and random prescriptions. The doctor told me they had to many people waiting to do a proper questioning.

Roger Andersen

As a retired specialist physician I spent considerable time evaluating the local clinics to determine where I wanted to put my trust. Ultimately, I chose Medical Arts Clinic for several reasons - this is without doubt the best run clinic in the area, they have completely converted to electronic medical records, they assist patients with getting their own access to their lab results online, they have developed a system for qualifying their doctors such that they ultimately only get doctors who get along great with patients, staff and each other and are willing to put in the long hours when necessary. Their walk-in clinic is open every day of the year except 2. The clinic will fight for their patients whether it is to the hospital bureaucracy, imaging center for timely exams or the specialist referral. They are definitely unusual in that they have figured out that customer service is just as important in medicine as it is in any other business. I can unequivocally recommend them for all your primary care needs.

Dawn Turner

I went to the walk-in clinic for the first time and was impressed by the professionalism of the staff. I wish I could recall the name of the nice young doctor who saw me but he was very warm and cheerful and promptly referred me to a specialist for my condition. I would highly recommend this clinic to others (even though doing so may make the wait times longer!).

Ashley Henderson

Worst medical clinic by far. HIGHLY disappointed. Had a family doctor for about 4 years, I could get my prescriptions renewed no problem. Then he up and leaves and leaves all of his clients without a backup or even any notice. Who does that ? Just to get a renewal I was waiting around for about 5 hours. Trying to get through on the phone is a joke, Don't even get me started on how terrible the receptionists are. Very very rude, impatient and demeaning. I get some people have rough days but this is a normal interaction for most. A complete JOKE.

Mary Meeking

Great clinic

Jennica Duncan

Dear Doctor VanPel I saw you a while ago. I saw you deliver some pretty bad news to my wife. I saw you take a full half an hour to make sure that my wife understood her diagnosis. I saw you try and keep your face stoic while delivering the very hard new that she may have the c word. I saw as a little part of you broke while delivering that news. I saw how you wished you could comfort her. I saw you today. I saw that you took 40 minutes with the patient before me. I saw that she came out crying. I saw that the 30 extra minutes you took with her, meant the world of difference. I saw that you had to make the hard deliverance, then compose yourself before seeing me. I saw you apologize for doing your job well, and truly caring for the people who call you their doctor. Know that you never have to apologize to me. I appreciate all the time you take with your patients. I hope that you never become jaded by the reality that there will always be that one person who is never satisfied with their care. I hope that you always remember that I appreciate you and everything you do for us, your patients. Very gratefully. Me.

Sam Jones

The lady who I spoke to over the phone regarding walk in hours/appointments was incredibly demeaning and gave me unclear directions. At first I was told a doctor needs to call me to determine whether or not I can be seen- so I tried to give her my contact phone number. And then I was told to see another clinic, and finally told to come in immediately for their walk in which I am unable to do. She refused to take my contact info to be followed up by a doctor and insisted I can just “come in during office hours”.... very different from what she started the call with. Now I have doubts that coming in will allow me to see anyone not having a doctor call me first. Aside from her being so unkind, I feel extremely mislead.

michele schmidt

Thank you Dr. Chris Collins and Joanne! for your upmost care, compassion and patience when I came in with my daughter yesterday!

Latasha Fox

Always long waits 2+ hours, with estimates off by hours. Staff is rude and unhelpful and the Dr do not care about your issues with zero follow up and dont tell their clients that they are moving branches. Office will not help if your not a client of theirs. Only good thing is they have all day walk in.

Brittany Olson

Best walk in ever. There WILL be a huge wait and often line ups. But the receptionists will give you a very accurate wait time and let you come back when it’s time. Super efficient, friendly, and had a wonderful doctor who didn’t make me feel rushed.

Jenina Gutierrez

THE WORST CLINIC IN NANAIMO! Receptionists are so rude, one time I was trying to book an appointment and they said I was good to go and it was set then they hung up on me mid-sentence. I called 4-5 times and they purposely did not answer and when they did, they would pick up and hang up. I called the manager/supervisor and told her what happened and she just seemed like she didn’t care that her staff were so rude and I explained i was just trying to book an appointment so she checked and she told me there was no appointment booked under my name. Not only that the front staff are rude, their doctors are also useless. My maternity doctor was Dr. Barron and since this is my first pregnancy I expected at least a bit more guidance from my Dr. but that didn’t happen. There were times I needed to reach my Dr. and I had told her about it and she said I can’t contact her directly and I have to go through the receptionist first, her communication was TRASH. She did not let me know that she was going on vacation, she didn’t let me know when I should book my appointments, she didn’t tell me anything important like registering at the hospital or taking important vaccines. And the worst part is that she recommended me a heartburn medicine and told me it was safe but when I went to the pharmacy, the pharmacist told me that the medicine has been discontinued for 2 years now because it causes cancer.. That was definitely my last straw and i knew i couldnt trust her with my baby when she doesn’t even know what she’s prescribing or recommending… also I just felt that everyone working at that clinic was racist because my husband and I got different treatment because we are not white. Im trying to save every pregnant woman from going to this clinic. Pregnant or not i would never again step foot in here.

Matteau Imeson

Amazing doctors. The doctors are compassionate and truly care. Horrific wait times but that's not the clinics fault. They are picking up the slack for the shortage in family doctors in Nanaimo and can't fault them for helping the best they can.

Yarrow Talifero

The best!

sandman34567

Most usuless doctors ever, they just want to get to the next client and will give little to no information. I had a broken ankle and they had my running in circles to the hospital X-ray, than back, than othropedist... the bullcrap never ends I am furious with them!

Hilda Webster

This is the only place I go to when I come to Nanaimo.

Tara Lawrence

Nice doctors and staff. Extended hours really great.

Meghan Young

Every single time I go here I turned away, don't waste your time

Sharnake

Don't waste your time

Sherri Smith Graham

Very organized and efficient. Friendly and respectful staff! Confident and courteous doctor also.

Me Not you

Always over packed because of the islands shortage of doctors. Some of the drs rush you through the appt so fast its not even worth going

Erin Essiambre

I called this clinic because my husband is extremely sick. The phone was answered by a very rude receptionist, who cut me off when I tried to ask a question. She was extremely rude, to the point where I hung up on her. I will never go back to this clinic, and I am NOT impressed.

Ambryn E

Just saw a doctor tonight. I was left extremely shocked at the way he spoke to me as a patient. I respectfully disagreed with his diagnosis (that he gave me before I was done explaining all my symptoms and my own family doctors diagnosis from 2 weeks ago) and he told me "if you don't think so you can leave". I was so taken aback and shocked. As one health care professional to another, learn some bedside manners and how to professionally navigate a disagreement with a patient. Absolutely uncalled for, offensive and unprofessional. I also work in the medical field and explain diagnoses and treatments to patients, often with pushback. However, I would never even think to speak down to a patient in such an aggressive, rude manner. I will never see this doctor again.

Cathy Andersen (Buzz and Billy Farm)

The medical staff and physicians have cared for my family and myself for many years. We have always been treated by competent and caring staff. We have never had an issue with getting an appointment when we are sick, and follow up appointments are never a problem. There is never a problem being seen if you are sick, even if your physician is not in on a given day, they have a great walk in clinic. The walk in clinic is there for us when we need to be seen first thing in the morning or on the weekend-no appoint required. Our physician truly takes the time to know each of us and understand our healthcare issues. I highly recommend this clinic.

Rúben Vilas Boas

I was told that i had an hour of waiting. Ended up being 3. It may have been an exceptional occasion, but this was my experience.

family Strijckers

They are very kind and efficient

eX ordium

It wasn't too busy, I dropped by around 10:30am but there was a sign on the door saying they don't take walk in patients until 12:30pm so I left and came back at 12:30pm. I came in the security guard immediately came up to greet me, the whole time I was there I noticed he was very attentive and I appreciate that. I waited in the waiting room for about 40 minutes then saw the doctor for about 1 minute, lol. Quickest doctor's visit I've ever had.

Jim Frank

Never able to get an appointment with my own clinic. This downtown clinic is a life saver. Many thanks.

D S

My family doctor is out of this clinic (Dr. Balfour) and I absolutely adore him! I was lucky to find such a compassionate, knowledgeable and efficient physician like him! The ladies at reception are always friendly to me and the clinic looks clean and well managed. I’ve never had issues with booking appointments, in fact, most times I’m able to get same day appointments! 5 star all the way.

Selma Chen

i like this clinic. reception are warm and efficient, doctors are kind and professional, environment is new and clean. definitely will recommend it to friends.

Bruce Finch

Staff to be commended for all the difficult people they have to constantly deal with. This is a great clinic for the downtown. Everyone does their best despite the physician shortage.

Shaba Martin

Normally this center is exceptional. (It is better with visiting doctors) there is one nurse that clearly does not like people, I don't quite understand why she is a receptionist. Also if I am quoted an hour and a half I will be there then. I feel that the receptionists hedge how long it will be, if they tolde 2 hours right off the bat I would go home and come back. In short good doctors normally, but be prepared to wait.

Greg McRae

The best care in Nanaimo. Nurse Brenda has been patching me up for more than 50 years..

Sarah Pickard

Absolutely lovely and patient admin staff and great doctors. This is the only walk-in clinic in Nanaimo, so they are extremely busy and doubtless handling a lot of frustrated people on the daily. I recommend going as early as you can, before opening hours and try being kind to the people that work there.

Don King

Three generations of our family come here. We love this clinic.

Conor McGowan

2 stars because the doctor at least was good.

Justine Breingan

The most discriminating, cruel, and abusive clinic I’ve ever attended, or attempted to attend I should say. I was denied a medical appointment by them. And will be pursuing a lawsuit against them for a human rights violation.

Dawn Solski

Of the two receptionists, one was very rude. After a lengthy wait in severe pain I noticed that a person that had checked in after my friend was being seen first, he asked the receptionist what was up with that. She became very rude muttering comments under her breath. Finally, upon seeing the doctor he told my friend he could do nothing for him. Well about 10 hours later, after a trip to an emergency department, my friend was diagnosed with a severe ear infection and give an Rx and pain medication. He has filed a formal complaint against this clinic!

Sara Anne

I called this evening (October 23) and requested that they peek in my chart to see if they had received lab results from another clinic. The girl REFUSED to look up the info, demanding that I call back during the day. I advised that I work in the bush during the day and do not have access to cell phone reception. She said too bad for me and she once again REFUSED TO HELP ME. All she would have had to do is look in my chart.

Captain Chainsaw

if i had the option i would choose zero stars this place is a absolutle joke, huge wait times. cant awnser a phone call. people go elsewhere if you need to see a doctor.

Bob Smithers

If your in pain for ANY reason.....DONT GO TO THIS PLACE.....they will NOT help you...your better off going to the hospital...... This place is good for Ear Cleaning, and prescribing Aspirin....

David Hiebert

One of the best clinics I've ever been to. Highly recommend. Great in every area.

Elizabeth Prevost (You Need To Meditate)

The doctors are smart and thorough but the rest of the staff are terrible which make it hard to keep going. Rude receptionists make it nearly unbearable. Especially if it's during walk in hours. Appointments are useless, nearly all of them get cancelled or rescheduled for various reasons for nearly every doctor it seems like. 5 stars to the iud clinic, but they end up with a 1 star because you have to deal with the rest of the clinic to go.

Yard Plots

Worst experience ever. Misdiagnosed. Argumentative doctors on staff and management that has zero response to my concerns. I do not appreciate the poor level of health care insurance have received and am grateful to have moved over to a professional health care office

Myster Wonderful

Clean, doctors are on shift, just what you need when going too or needing a clinic!!!

Marc Vane

I went to medical arts as a visitor from the USA. I had a bad hematoma after a bike accident. They are very fast in comparison to other clinics and best of all I saved $950 from going to the ER previously. Highly recommended

Eva B

The care was decent but the way they manage wait times is off. I was told I had to wait in my car and to come back in 1.5 hrs even though there were still a few seats in the waiting area. When I came back in, they weren't busy anymore so a few people who had just got there got in to see the doctor before me. The security guard said they had no one in the clinic for 30 mins. They had my phone number. A simple text to say that I could come back in would have been nice. Lots of places are doing this now to streamline the wait so hopefully they will update the way they do things in the future.

Erica Morin

I'm in extreme pain. Can barely breathe or walk and I had to walk to work I don't drive or I'd go to the hospital but I just called there explaining I'm at work and would like to set up an appointment for as soon as I'm done and this rude woman answers and continues to talk over me and ignore what I'm saying! All I want is an appointment so the tissue around my lungs can become unswollen so I can breathe and move about freely and then it s horrible lady won't even help me. I'm in so much pain. This woman should not be employed where she needs to help people by any means. She clearly has no heart!

Darlene Frier

I have had excellent service here over the past few years. The staff are friendly and helpful, as were the doctors. Even when it was quite busy, I always felt listened to and not rushed.

J R

An older MOA lady was super rude, I was told 45 minutes and 8 people in front of me. As I watched more than a couple dozen + come and go, I walked over I asked when I was going in and she said "soon" with attitude and I waited 2 hours.. the doctor checked and they completely missed me and they didn't bother to even look into this. The Doctor apologized and was great! but that one lady was so rude, she shouldn't be at the front desk dealing with people, I feel like she did this intentionally after I asked her, as she was holding my paperwork in her hand while rolling her eyes at me for asking.

nessie

this place is a joke. the dr. called me to tell me my results were normal, when i had already seen the results and they were abnormal. after a few follow ups he made it clear to me that he would not refer me to a gyno or perscribe me medicine for my uti... an absolute digrace as far as im concerned. UPDATE: the dr. booked a procerdure with a urologist without my consultation or consent.

Laura Moro

Great experience with front desk staff and doctor.

J Murray

This place is some sort of sad sad joke. You go at 930am for walk in. They tell you okay it is a 2 hour wait but they ask you to check back in every hour. Sicker than a god damn dog and I have been here 4 times this morning. There is absolutely no reason any sick person should need to come back to the walk in clinc 3, 4, 5, 6 times just to be seen. Sure glad the governement is going to pay to clean up their firm. Just an absolute bloody joke.

Jason Ellis

I had a deep cut that needed cleaning, a couple stitches, and a tetanus shot. Not worth an Emergency visit so I was delighted to hear there was a primary care centre in Nanaimo (the one in Vancouver is second to none). I drove across town to the Medical Arts Centre no fewer than 3 times to find a sign on the door stating they are overcapacity and won't start taking names for an hour or more. Sorry, that's not "urgent" and it's not "primary care". Whether the cause is funding or staffing shortfalls, it needs fixing or everyone will just go back to Emergency for everything, the problem primary care centres were trying to solve in the first place.

Mike Thompson

Surprisingly rude and shows no compassion. When I phoned in with a genuine health concern I was greeted by a person with a poor attitude towards patient health. When I tried to explain my situation I was told to phone the office manager - Greg - who is away until August 5th. I was then hung up on. I don't understand why people take customer service roles who clearly dislike people.

Meg Gorosh

paternalistic doctors who pride themselves on being experts and who don't listen to patients. Terrible experiences the last three times I've been. I get better medical support through telehealth platforms. I will not go back to this clinic.

KΔSTLES Music

The wait times at this clinic have exploded to an absolutely absurd 2-3 hours. It now takes having booked an entire day off work just to see a doctor for five minutes. I took a friend there to be seen due to an acute dental abscess and they’d closed accepting walk-in patients for over an hour. Because of his pain level and his reluctance to even see a doctor, let alone wait, I encouraged him to ask if they’d at least put him on the list. They refused to put him on the list for over an hour. The wait afterward could be an additional few hours just to get antibiotics, plus the time to fill them. That’s potentially four hours to get medical care. When I expressed a complaint (was not abusive, did not yell, swear or use inappropriate body language), he was told not to return to that clinic and threatened with not receiving medical care at all in the future. This clinic needs either new receptionists or to close. Frankly, it is incredibly poorly managed and has so many negative patient reviews that after 12 years of being a patient there, even I won’t go back. The receptionist who dealt with my friend should be fired and taught a thing or two about bedside manner.

Wayde Simpson (ETHbadger)

Amazing care and customer service. Lizzy and the Doc were caring and thoughtful in numerous follow ups. Amazing communication throughout. Thank you for what you do!

Layth Matthews

The Medical Arts Centre in Port Place has been a great medical clinic for me and my three children. It is well organized, the staff is very courteous and proficient. The drop in waiting times have been reasonable, and all the physicians have been very kind and professional including our own family doctor, Doctor Mander. I only wish they had a woman doctor still taking patients (for my wife). This seems to be a universal shortage. But then it has been a year since we checked, so maybe they do!

Brad Olsen

Old staff lady is horrible and should be let go or made to not interact with the public. If another walkin is available go there.

Kristy-Ann Whalen

This is hands down the worst clinic I have ever visited. They have the most rudest reception staff I have ever encountered. When I informed the lady of her rudeness she defended herself. There is absoloutly no need to be rude to another human being for no reason. If you hate your job that much, please get another one. Perhaps not with the public or in health care would be a polite suggestion.

Claire Hughes

Most of the receptionists are so rude here. I called today to just ask a question and the response from one of the receptionists was very rude. I understand that they have to deal with a lot at this location, but every time I call, I already know that the receptionists will be extremely impatient and will somehow make me feel dumb.

shawn mawer

Worst service I’ve ever received at a clinic. I wait an hour and a half And the Doctor could care less what’s actually wrong with me, all he cared about was getting the next patient out the door, my friend and I went in for 2 completely different reasons and he told us both the exact same thing, absolutely pathetic. Don’t run a walk in clinic if you don’t care about your patients

Kieran Monaghan

Not happy with the lack of waiting list for walk-ins.

Lori Pollock

Even if you go early to their walk-in clinic, & are told to come back in an hour or two, they are still way off. You will still wait hours. They also push the jab every chance they get. Their literature on it is laughable. I can easily refuteceverybpoint

Christopher Sinclair

Life saver. Only clinic open in town. No one else even tries. Terrific service. Lack of doctors in community is a problem. Feel sorry for reception who have to deal with so many rude, demanding and selfish people.

Barbara Gilleran

Nothing negative to say at all. This is an extremely challenging environment in which to work, being one of the few (if not the only facility) in the area to welcome walk-in patients. The staff is too often subjected to verbal (and sometimes physical) abuse from patients who likely wouldn’t even be seen but for this clinic. Makes me wonder why staff would even subject themselves to it. The service given me over this past summer, as an annual visitor to the area, was exemplary. Special kudos to Nurse Brenda for her unfailing good humour in the face of it all.

Saquib A

Very very bad customer service. Lady at the reception was rude and unprofessional.

Rob Frykas

I wasn't sure what to expect for my first visit. I must say I saw a doctor that was very friendly and I felt looked after for sure. Just wish I could get him as a family physician.

Samantha R

I came in on a busy Sunday and couldn’t thank the reception team enough for being so nice and helping me.

Mr. T (MR.T)

good service, nice doctor.

Sunny Parsons

I have seen a few of the doctors for myself and my daughter and all of them have been attentive and caring.

Carolyn Soucie

I've been going to this clinic since 2001. I have gone there as a walk-in patient and to see my family doctor (Dr. O'Farrell). The staff is efficient, polite and quick. The nurses station is again efficient. They are so busy in there and I appreciate all of them. I like the proximity to London Drugs and to the lab (just around the corner). When I have an appointment I never have to wait long in the waiting room. I think the most I have ever waited might have been 10 minutes? Usually it's within 5 minutes. I can't say enough about how fantastic Dr. O'Farrell is. I am so grateful to her. She is thorough, caring, understanding. She has this lovely calm aura about her. Has given me excellent referrals for specialists. My husband had a different physician at another clinic and now sees Dr. O'Farrell too. He likes her very much and has noticed the difference in his care with her in comparison to his previous physician from another clinic. As a walk-in patient I have had to wait but that is to be expected. The staff usually give you an ETA upon arrival so you can go and come back. I've seen many doctors there as a walk-in patient. They are all lovely. There is this one guy in particular (I wish I knew his name) whom I've seen a few times including at the hospital in Emergency. He has curly hair and one year around Christmas time he was seeing patients dressed up as an Elf. He was making everyone laugh including the kids. It was wonderful.

Nelly Schouten

Best Medical Clinic in Nanaimo!!!. Last friday I walk -in this clinic feeling very unwell. I was looked after by a very friendly receptionist, a very caring nurse and a very attentive Lady Doctor( too sick to remember her name). Just a note to let you know how I really appreciate your help and to THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR ALL YOUR HELP.

Lori Seeker

Busy place. Line ups, but doctor and staff were terrific. What would community do without this service? Very pleased with my care.

Steve Graham

It is difficult to make an appointment with my own doctor. I have arrived early twice on a Saturday morning for the walk in clinic, fist in line. On both occasions an actress that arrived much later than many of us, they were fine before the clinic doors opened, but put on a great show when they signed in and were given the first appointment. The first time I let my concern be known politely, the second time a lady that had driven down island, second in line let her frustration be known. On both occasions I was surprised at the rudeness of the receptionist. If anyone in authority reads these remarks, her description has been give many times, seated at the far left at the reception desk. She creates a toxic environment. Both doctors were very professional.

Babae Williams

I called to book an appointment beforehand but whoever was answering calls hung up on me twice without saying anything. Once I got her on the phone she was not polite at all.

Tracie

Since I've lived in Nanaimo, this has been my go to clinic for walk in and the staff here all seem to be very caring, friendly and knowledgeable and the wait times are actually pretty good compared to most clinics. With having such a positive experience here with walk-in, and after having the majority of my care done here after a car accident, I decided to have my maternity care done here as well when I found out I was pregnant with my first baby. I started seeing Dr. Laura Barron who has been such a huge support and advocate for me throughout my entire pregnancy and has helped me to understand the many physical as well as emotional changes that come with pregnancy. She has also helped me to feel confident in the labour and delivery process and has acquainted me with the other maternity doctors who also seem very caring, knowledgeable and professional. Dr. Barron definitely goes the extra mile to make you feel special as a patient and spends time with you to answer questions and help you to feel supported. I'm very happy with the choice I have made for me and my little one and would highly recommend Dr. Barron and the Medical Arts Centre team to anyone. I also want to recognise the nursing staff who have also made this journey a very positive one for me. <3

Danielle Bazowski

Arriving already stressed and nervous regarding my reason to visit the clinic. The staff was very patient and polite. The receptionist who clearly never gets enough recognition ( hence some of these reviews) was an absolute sweetheart without even trying. I myself have worked in reception and nobody knows how hard that woman works to keep everything going in a timely manner ( truly the heart that keeps a clinic running smoothly in some instances- of course there's going to be bumps along the way!. Imagine that clinic without her. You don't know what's going on behind closed doors before you encountered your first visit with her, if she's short with you....have a little compassion for her aswell ! We ALL need to show a little more compassion these days. Maybe she's overworked and God knows what else..working for clinics and larger staff oriented offices is a tough gig. Period. I was late for my appointment and staff made no change in attitude regardless. The doctor was respectful non judgemental informative and to the point. This clinic deserves the recognition. Huge thanks, Dr Collins, we need more doctors like you.

Matt Teller

Valuable service! Thank you.

Clark Rob

I had to go this walk in clinic. On Wednesday night. It was busy and had to wait and came back after a period of time. Granted it was a long time but the staff especially the receptionist were awesome. The doctors were running back and forth and when it came to me I am.happy

Clare Dwyer

Thank you! Appreciate all your help.

Sam B

I was in the clinic last week to pick up a doctors note and I felt that the MOAs really deserve some recognition. The front area was chaotic and you could tell they were feeling overwhelmed and people were being rude to them. The MOA handled the situation professionally when I’m sure at times they would love to be rude right back.

Carly G

I’m sorry to have forgotten the name of the doctor I saw (Male with accent), he was the most thoughtful, thorough doctor I have ever met. Thank you for the wonderful care.

Christina Bore

I and my family have been coming to this clinic for many years. Our family doctor is dr Kaban. He is the most thorough physician, who always respect our concerns. I feel we are in very competent hands.

Mike Oliver

Great access to medical help High quality service. Drug store across the Hall to fill prescriptions. No problems with the high level of proffesionalism offered.

Caroline Umeokeoma

Normally I do not post reviews, but I tried contacting the clinic directly to provide this feedback but other than to book an appointment, they have no further contact details listed on their website (email, etc.). I was quite disappointed and caught off guard by the response I received today when calling to consult my family doctor about whether my Son should be tested for Covid. I was told that nobody could help me today, I could not book an appointment for a future date, and I would have to call back on Monday to see if I could speak to somebody at that point (no guarantees). Out of curiosity i asked, if I simply needed to book a normal check up, the I could not even book this in advance? Answer was no. I do not want to unnecessarily take my 3.5 year old for a test, but I want to be responsible. I was able to book a test with public health, but they did not go through any screening process with us (didn't even ask if he had symptoms). All this to say i'm disappointed that in a confusing time for many parents who will be faced with colds/flu symptoms this season its so difficult to get the advice we need from our family physicians.

Jason H

I was told that "they don't make appointments for walk-ins" and offered no other information. Isn't the point of calling to make an appointment to not be a walk-in? What a moron receptionist. Incredibly rude for the entire call, they need to fire this person and get somebody with some communication skills.

Fred Anderson

Have always had courteous service and professional consultation at this location. Get there early in the morning for the quickest appointments.

Kimberly Holliday

Receptionist was extremely rude & unprofessional as i could hear her talking to the other receptionist about me in a negative way. Was given someone else’s prescription and left without realizing and when i tried calling the clinic the phones were off due to being at capacity at 815am??? Then when they called me to tell me they gave me the wrong persons paperwork, the receptionist says ‘you really didn’t think to check it before you left?’ ??????? Also told me that they take ‘confidentiality very seriously’ when i asked how that happens. not impressed

Mike Allen

Calling for a test result on a weekend is impossible, not enough staff on hand to deal with incoming calls.

Sooji Han

One of the lady who work there as a office assisdant she rude and aggressive i went there twice seems like she just angry person.....

Aspen Avenu

Great staff and we just love our doctors (Van Pel & L. Barron) they’re amazing. I never feel rushed and can get an appointment pretty quickly (about a week)

Kevin Barrett

We had the best experience here. Our daughter needed stitches taken out. We called and Rebecca from the nurses station called us back and arranged to help us. This was on a Saturday and we missed a ferry so we were an hour late. Rebecca stayed after her shift to help us out, she was incredibly patient, skilled and kind in helping put our daughter at ease and remove the stitches. I honestly owe her a debt of gratitude. Thank you so much Rebbeca, from Kevin and Elle.

Matt Cousineau

Honestly this place will work for you, shorter wait times then the hospital but they managed to mix up my perscription with someone else's luckily they fixed it within 2.5 hours have noticed that extra things like doctors notes cost money

Brandon Browne

Poor service. The staff were very rude to me. I won’t recommend going in there to anyone I know.

Alana Hopkins

I'm currently residing in Surrey for school. But I love this office so much that I make the trip over and keep my doctor because my doctor is amazing and the staff has been great!

Julia Youngs

The clinic was busy today so there was a two hour wait but I was able to go away and check back in hourly instead of sitting the entire time The staff were kind and professional.

T SMITH

My doctor is wonderful, but the admin staff are rude and don't seem to care that people are attached to files. The people who answer the phone, and I have spoke with many now, are rude and lack the one thing a doctor offices needs which is compassion. They listen only to respond and never to understand.

Kaylyn Cox

Only place in Nanaimo taking walk-ins due to covid. As I just moved here and don't have a family doctor I really appreciate the hard working staff members. It can't be easy on them being the only open walk-in clinic. Thank you for seeing me every week for allergy shots! Without them I'd have to get the shots done at the hospital.

Cameron Craig

Nothing but good experiences from the doctors. Unfortunately every experience with the reception staff up until this point has been both rude and abrupt. I will be switching my preferred clinic as a result of this.

Bill Cohen

Doctor was fantastic with my son. Thanks for all your help!

Mike M

Place is always busy and you have to book weeks in advance to see a Dr. And yes the old lady at the counter is usually rude.

Tunis Babcock

Bad cut on the weekend. Thanks for stitching me up. Really appreciate all you did.

Б Купер

Rude front desk staff. My usual clinic (Caledonian) was fully booked today. I possibly have strep throat, and called Medical arts to see if I could be tested so that I can receive some antibiotics if needed. They said no, and took my name and phone number, and said they would call my usual clinic to see if someone could call me today. I waited half an hour, and called Caledonian back. They had not heard from Medicdal arts. I was advised by Caledonian just to go to medical arts as a walk-in, and they should test me for strep. So I went into Medical arts, and the receptionist was very rude. She said I shouldn't be in there because I'm sick (Whole reason I'm there). She said I was already booked in for a telephone appointment for "right now" (odd). I said Caledonian told me I should just come in and get tested. She responded loudly with "WELL Caledonian are liars and they need to stop that". It was a very unprofessional and weird thing for her to say. I'm just trying to get testing/treatment so I can go back to work.

Judy Lupkowski

Fantastic Service! Reception and doctors very caring.

Megan Carlson

I see Elaine Clarke here and I can honestly tell you she's incredible and so is the receptionists.

Cindy Williams

I don’t know about other days, but Saturday morning the lineup starts before the clinic opens. People like Steve Graham who comment on others being seen first because they are good “actors” need to be corrected. I was let in to donate a urine sample and then returned to the waiting room to wait my turn like everyone else.

Andrew Nelson

Nice place. Like my doctor and the staff are always helpful.

MacKenzie Cooper

I've had good experiences with the clinic in the past!

Juith Macphee

Nice place. Appreciate their services

Shawn

Don’t waste your time coming here they will make you wait forever and then tell you they are too busy to help you while there is no one in the waiting room and they are open for three more hours

Shaneka Ealeuthere

The staff are polite but the service is poor and of low quality. I wasn't feeling well for a week and I decided go to that clinic. I had to wait almost 4 hours (no exaggeration). When i finally got to see the doctor for 3 minutes I was sent for a test to confirm his diagnosis. He told me when the results come back he would know the correct treatment. However, 3 weeks went by and didn't hear anything. I decided to call the lab and they told me the doctor has my results. When i called the clinic the rude receptionist put down the phone in my ear. I called a second time and was told my results came in the next day. I ask if I can speak to the doctor to get a recommendation on treatment as he said he would do. I was told I will have to come in as a walk-in and pay again. WTH...I'm an international student hence I have to pay for everything. It's not worth it to go there....TERRIBLE!

Joel Dumas

Went in on a Wednesday around 11am and waited about an hour to see Dr Visser(spelling?). Everything went as well as possible. Not really the best enviroment to work in (in general, everyone who comes in is sick, etc.) So respect to the staff.

Bryan KL

The staff ,who seems an old lady,on the reception desk ,is super rude and without heart. Even rejected to booked an spot for patient,using the ridiculous reason,you guys should Chang some reception staff to keep the reputation. Doctors are generally good.

Mackenzie Kinequon

The reception is extremely rude. No help at all. Definitely don’t recommend dealing with this lady.

molly Armstrong

Don' t waste your time at this clinic .....money, money , money appears to be the only motivating factor.