8-1-1 is a free-of-charge health information and advice phone line available in British Columbia. The 8-1-1 phone line is operated by HealthLink BC, which is part of the Ministry of Health. By calling 8-1-1, you can speak to a health services representative, who can help you find health information and services; or connect you directly with a registered nurse, a registered dietitian or a pharmacist. Any one of these healthcare professionals will help you get the information you need to manage your health concerns, or those of your family.
Nurses
At any time of the day or night, every day of the year, you can call 8-1-1 to ask a registered nurse your health questions. Our nurses are available to help you with non-emergency health concerns, to discuss symptoms and procedures and recommend whether you should see a health care provider in person.
Pharmacists
You can call 8-1-1 to talk to a pharmacist about your medication questions. Our pharmacists are on call at 8-1-1when your community pharmacist may be unavailable – every night from 5 pm to 9 am.
Dietitians
Registered dietitians are available to answer your healthy eating and nutrition questions by phone at 8-1-1, or you can Email a HealthLinkBC Dietitian. Our dietitians are available from 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday.
Health Services Representatives
When you call 8-1-1, you will speak to a health services representative who will direct your call to the HealthLink BC service that fits your needs. Our health services representatives can also help you find your way in the B.C. health care system. Whether you are looking for the closest walk-in clinic, travel clinic, or want to know where to take your child for immunizations, the Navigation Services team at HealthLink BC will direct you to the services you need, closest to where you live.
Our health services representative can also answer your questions about the B.C. Smoking Cessation Program, and register you for Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT). For more information, call 8-1-1 or visit our B.C. Smoking Cessation program web page.
Translation Services
8-1-1 provides translation services on request in more than 130 languages.