GF Strong Rehabilitation Centre, part of Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH), is the largest rehabilitation hospital in British Columbia. Located in Vancouver, it provides comprehensive inpatient, outpatient and outreach programs for individuals recovering from significant injuries or managing chronic conditions. Its specialized services focus on acquired brain injury, spinal cord injury, arthritis, neuromusculoskeletal rehabilitation, and related complex health needs.

Range of Specialized Programs

Patients benefit from multidisciplinary care delivered by physicians, nurses, occupational therapists, physiotherapists, psychologists, social workers, and speech-language pathologists. Programs include intensive rehabilitation following acute injury, community re-integration training, assistive technology services, pain management, vocational rehabilitation, and support for independent living. Outreach services extend to communities across BC to improve access to specialized care.

Patient-Centred and Inclusive Care

GF Strong emphasizes patient- and family-centred care. Rehabilitation programs are tailored to individual goals, with an emphasis on maximizing functional independence, quality of life and community participation. Services integrate family involvement, peer support, and culturally safe practices. Indigenous health supports, language interpretation, and customized therapy approaches are part of the hospital’s inclusivity commitment.

Research, Teaching and Partnerships

Affiliated with the University of British Columbia and other academic institutions, GF Strong is a hub for rehabilitation research and professional training. Areas of study include neurorehabilitation, assistive technologies, pain science, and outcome measurement. Clinical placements for medical and allied health students are offered regularly, ensuring future health professionals gain expertise in rehabilitation medicine.

Practical Information for Patients

Admission to GF Strong typically requires a referral from a physician or acute care hospital. Wait times may vary based on medical priority and program capacity. The facility provides both inpatient beds and outpatient clinics, with services coordinated to ensure continuity of care. Accessibility features include adaptive equipment, wheelchair-friendly spaces, and community transition resources.

Key Considerations

Patients and families should prepare for multidisciplinary involvement and goal-setting throughout their stay. Due to limited bed capacity, length of stay is determined by clinical progress and discharge readiness. For individuals outside Metro Vancouver, planning for transportation and temporary accommodation may be necessary. Despite these challenges, GF Strong remains BC’s provincial leader in rehabilitation, combining clinical expertise with innovation and compassion.