Vancouver General Hospital (VGH) is one of British Columbia’s largest tertiary and quaternary care teaching hospitals. It serves metropolitan Vancouver and the province at large. VGH operates as a major trauma centre and referral hospital, providing advanced surgical services (including transplant, neurosurgery, cardiac surgery), critical care, oncology, burn and plastic surgery, spinal cord injury care, and other high complexity services. It also houses specialized clinics, research institutes, and academic training linked with the University of British Columbia.

Patient Services & Facilities

Patients arriving at VGH can access a broad spectrum of services: 24/7 emergency care capable of handling major trauma; complex diagnostic imaging; specialized outpatient clinics; inpatient and outpatient surgeries; internal medicine; critical and neonatal care; and mental health services. Hospital rooms include shared, semi-private and private options when available. Amenities for patients and visitors include cafeterias, gift shops, spiritual/multifaith support, interpretation services, and wayfinding.

Education, Research & Teaching

VGH is academically affiliated with UBC’s Faculty of Medicine. It hosts teaching pavilions and research centres, accommodating medical students, residents, fellows, and researchers. Examples include the Gordon and Leslie Diamond Health Care Centre and other integrated research units. The hospital plays a central role in advancing medical practice in BC through clinical research, innovation, and development of care protocols.

Access & Practical Info

Address: 899 West 12th Avenue, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1M9. Main contacts include general line (604-875-4111), admissions (604-875-4300). Visitors should check parking & transport options; the hospital campus is accessible via public transit and has dedicated parking structures. Plan-your-visit information covers visiting hours, maps, patient admission, and visitor amenities.

What Users Should Know

Some specialized services require referrals; wait times for emergency, clinics and surgeries vary depending on demand. Because of its size and complexity, navigating the VGH campus may be challenging for first-time visitors—maps and wayfinding aids are provided. Private rooms are limited. Also, VGH participates in large-scale virtual health and telehealth initiatives, and offers robust supportive services such as interpreters, Indigenous health navigators, and inclusive care.