Do you know a youth looking to grow and explore future career paths? Youth volunteers Ava, Eren, Liv, Sierra and their fellow student volunteers are making a meaningful impact through the Step Up Youth program. Apply today! islandhealth.ca/stepupyouth

This Earth Day, we are highlighting progress to cut greenhouse gas emissions in half by 2030, with real improvements happening where people receive care. Read more: https://ow.ly/LRPl50YOhfL

A moment of kindness can change everything. 💙 This National Volunteer Week, we’re celebrating Island Health volunteers who support patients, families and care teams every day. Read more about volunteers’ experiences: ow.ly/fu8h50YMQEH Apply to become a volunteer: islandhealth.ca/volunteer

Some habits have a bigger impact on your heart than others. Dr. Swiggum, a cardiologist at RJH, ranks them: - Resistance training (2x per week): 10/10 - Weight management: 10/10 - Quality sleep: 8/10 - Coconut oil: 0/10 Make the habits that count part of your routine. More: heartandstroke.ca

Every part of the new Quw'utsun Valley Hospital / Quw'utsun Hulitun-ew't-hw is designed with people in mind. From welcoming spaces to rooms that support safety, healing, and dignity, this hospital is built for the community. Opening 2027. Learn more: islandhealth.ca/newcdh

10 years after B.C. declared the toxic drug crisis a public health emergency, the impact is still being felt in communities across the region. For support, call Access Central at 1-888-885-8824 or visit islandhealth.ca/addiction-care.

Today, we honour Indigenous nurses who lead with compassion, cultural knowledge, and strength. Their work is changing lives and systems every day. #IndigenousNursesDay

School-based clinics make it easier for parents. No extra appointments, no missed work, and kids can get vaccinated in a place they already know. Find your local health unit to check your child’s immunization record: www.islandhealth.ca/our-location... #PublicHealthWeek

Not everything labeled “healthy” helps your heart. Dr. Swiggum, a cardiologist at RJH, shares where to focus if you want to make a real difference. Simple, everyday choices like eating whole foods and managing stress matter more than trends. Learn more at heartandstroke.ca

Getting help with alcohol or drug use doesn’t have to be complicated. With one call, a care team member will listen, understand your needs, and help connect you to the right supports. Call Access Central at 1-888-885-8824 (9 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. daily) or visit islandhealth.ca/addiction-care

A significant step forward for cancer care at Nanaimo Regional General Hospital. The future BC Cancer centre will expand access to care in Nanaimo and surrounding communities for patients and families when it opens in 2028. Learn more at ow.ly/iyIE50Yzj16 or email [email protected].

Want to feel more confident about your baby’s sleep? Here are a few key tips: - Place baby on their back for every sleep - Use a firm, separate sleep surface in your room - Keep the sleep space clear and uncluttered Register for Right From the Start: www.islandhealth.ca/pregnancy

PLEASE SHARE: A Drug Poisoning Overdose Advisory has been issued for #Victoria Find information on supervised consumption sites, drug-checking services & more: ow.ly/FgyS50PLkLF

There is a lot you can do to protect your heart. Dr. Chris Franco, General Cardiologist at Royal Jubilee Hospital, ranks common strategies to reduce heart risk. Take the free Risk Screen at riskscreen.heartandstroke.ca

If you are under 19 and living in the Island Health region, you could be eligible for the 2026 Youth Harm Reduction Award. Recipients receive $1,000 (total) and a framed certificate. Apply by April 15 at islandhealth.ca/yhra

Cardiac arrest can happen without warning. When it does, the people nearby matter most. Acting quickly can double someone’s chance of survival. You do not need to be a healthcare provider to save a life. Anyone can learn CPR. Take a course at heartandstroke.ca/cpr. Be ready when it matters most.

PLEASE SHARE: A Drug Poisoning Overdose Advisory has been issued for #Cowichan. Find information on supervised consumption sites, drug-checking services & more: ow.ly/FgyS50PLkLF

PLEASE SHARE: A Drug Poisoning Overdose Advisory has been issued for #Nanaimo. Find information on supervised consumption sites, drug-checking services & more: ow.ly/FgyS50PLkLF

Good news for Nanaimo and central Vancouver Island. We are moving ahead with concept planning for a new patient tower at Nanaimo Hospital, expanding acute and cardiac services to deliver care for patients closer to home.

Are you looking to change your relationship with alcohol or drugs? One call can connect you to services like detox, counselling, treatment programs, or medication that helps you manage withdrawal or cravings. Call Access Central at 1-888-885-8824 or visit islandhealth.ca/addiction-care

Mental health supports for youth are available. These services offer immediate crisis support and ongoing tools for teens and young people across BC.

Today is a Day of Mourning in BC for the tragedy in Tumbler Ridge. Our thoughts are with the families of those who lost their lives, students and staff, first responders, and the entire Tumbler Ridge community. Please join us in observing a moment of silence at 12:00 PM (PST).

British Columbians grieve with Tumbler Ridge and hold the families & friends suffering loss & affected by the tragedy close in our hearts. If you need support: 310-Mental Health Support: 310-6789 Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868 FoundryBC.ca

Our hearts are with everyone impacted by the tragic events in Tumbler Ridge. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or distressed, please reach out. Help is available: islandhealth.ca/get-support You don’t have to go through this alone. Get support now.

PLEASE SHARE: A Drug Poisoning Overdose Advisory has been issued for #Victoria. Find information on supervised consumption sites, drug-checking services & more: ow.ly/FgyS50PLkLF

PLEASE SHARE: A Drug Poisoning Overdose Advisory has been issued for #Nanaimo. Find information on supervised consumption sites, drug-checking services & more: ow.ly/FgyS50PLkLF

If alcohol or drugs are affecting your life, work or relationships, support is just one call away. Reach out to Access Central at 1-888-885-8824 or visit islandhealth.ca/addiction-care

The name Quw'utsun Valley Hospital / Quw'utsun Hulitun-ew't-hw is now in place above the west entrance on Bell McKinnon Road in North Cowichan. Learn more about the new name and construction progress: islandhealth.ca/newcdh/news

PLEASE SHARE: A Drug Poisoning Overdose Advisory has been issued for #PortAlberni. Find information on supervised consumption sites, drug-checking services & more: ow.ly/FgyS50PLkLF

We stand with Tseshaht First Nation and all Indigenous people affected by the recent hateful vandalism in Port Alberni. Wearing orange reflects our commitment to respect, understanding, and a community where all people feel safe, valued, and supported.

PLEASE SHARE: #Victoria Overdose Advisory There are options for safer use: Find information on supervised consumption sites, drug-checking services & more: ow.ly/FgyS50PLkLF

Are you concerned about your alcohol or drug use? You don’t need to have the answers before you call. A care team member will listen, learn what you need, and help connect you to services. Call Access Central at 1-888-885-8824, 9 a.m. to 7:45 p.m. daily or visit islandhealth.ca/addiction-care.

PLEASE SHARE: #Cowichan Overdose Advisory There are options for safer use: Find information on supervised consumption sites, drug-checking services & more: ow.ly/FgyS50PLkLF

Are you concerned about your alcohol or drug use? You don’t need to have the answers before you call. A care team member will listen, learn what you need, and help connect you to services. Call Access Central 1-888-885-8824, 9 a.m. to 7:45 p.m. daily, or visit islandhealth.ca/addiction-care.

New year, new goals. ✨ Thinking about drinking less? Cutting back on alcohol can mean: - Better sleep and more energy - Improved mood and clearer focus - Healthier skin and more balanced hormones - A higher sex drive - More money in your pocket Learn more: islandhealth.ca/alcohol

Hospitalist services resumed this morning (Wednesday, December 24, 2025), helping make sure patients can access the care they need close to home. Thank you patients, families, and staff for your patience during the temporary pause. Learn more: bit.ly/4qtetEr

Holiday care reminder✨ If you or a loved one needs care: 1. Call 8-1-1 2. Call your doctor/NP ask for an urgent appointment 3. Ask your pharmacist about prescribing or an urgent refill More options: islandhealth.ca/find-care

The holidays can be joyful and stressful. Big gatherings, busy schedules, and different personalities can take a toll. You’re not alone. Help is here when you need it. Call 1-888-885-8824 or visit islandhealth.ca/mhsu for support and services.

Running low on medication? Before the holiday rush, check with your pharmacist. They can provide emergency refills and treat 21 common conditions quickly. Find a pharmacist near you: seeyourpharmacist.ca

In order to ensure continued safe patient care, some patients at WCGH may be transferred to another hospital. The Emergency Department remains open 24/7. If you have a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the emergency department. Learn more: ow.ly/jXJo50XHfpT

PLEASE SHARE: #Cowichan Overdose Advisory has been extended. There are options for safer use: Find information on supervised consumption sites, drug-checking services & more: ow.ly/FgyS50PLkLF

Join Dr. Charmaine Enns and Island Health leaders to talk about health and care in Campbell River. Share your questions with the Board in person or by emailing [email protected]. Details at islandhealth.ca/boardforum.

Are you a First Nations person in BC, or do you support the health care decisions of someone who is? Share your feedback through our online survey before Dec. 10, and as a thank you for participating, you could win one of three $250 gift cards. Take the survey: https://fnhasurvey.malatest.net

Stay strong, steady, and confident. Small changes can make a big difference in preventing falls. Share this with someone you care about. Learn more at islandhealth.ca/falls-prevention

PLEASE SHARE: #Cowichan Overdose Advisory has been extended. There are options for safer use: Find information on supervised consumption sites, drug-checking services & more: ow.ly/FgyS50PLkLF

Join us Wednesday, December 3 for the Campbell River Public Board Forum! Have a question or idea about health in your community? Bring it to the forum or send it in advance to [email protected] and let the Board hear from you. Find event details at islandhealth.ca/boardforum

PLEASE SHARE: #Nanaimo Overdose Advisory There are options for safer use: Find information on supervised consumption sites, drug-checking services & more: ow.ly/FgyS50PLkLF

PLEASE SHARE: #Cowichan Overdose Advisory There are options for safer use: Find information on supervised consumption sites, drug-checking services & more: ow.ly/FgyS50PLkLF

Our 2025 Population Health Status Report takes a closer look at how people across our region are doing, highlighting real progress, and where more support is still needed. Learn more: www.islandhealth.ca/news/news-releases/new-report-highlights-health-gains-and-inequities-island-health-region

It’s tough when your child has a cold. Most mild infections clear up in a week or two with some at home care. - Offer plenty of fluids - Encourage rest - Try saline drops or a humidifier - Use safe, simple cough soothers - Keep vaccinations up to date Learn more: https://ow.ly/RbUU50Xl2Km