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Travel Clinic - Vancouver Coastal Health

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Centre of Excellence in Travel Medicine for B.C. The Vancouver Coastal Health Travel Clinic is equipped with all your pre-travel needs. Our doctors and nurses provide recommended and required vaccinations, prescriptions, and health advice tailored to the individual?s medical history and itinerary. Though we are owned and operated by the public health branch of VCH, travel medicine is not covered by the government. We are a Yellow Fever designated centre and we also offer non-travel vaccines such as the shingles vaccine.Our goal is to protect travelers against preventable diseases. more... See more text

• Vaccination ,

Products and Services

• Insect Repellent & Nets ,
• Malaria Counseling ,
• Prescriptions ,
• Travel Health Advice ,
• Water Filters ,

Languages Spoken

Getting there.

• 1 Block West Of Cambie & Broadway (downstairs) ,

Opening Hours *Holiday hours

Methods of payment:, social media.

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Ratings & Reviews - Travel Clinic - Vancouver Coastal Health

Better late than never?

I found out about this place through a facebook post. Wish I knew about this place earlier because I ALWAYS get sick when I travel. My family doctor was never helpful and probably didn't know about this place either. Better late than never I guess. The staff was friendly and everything was done quick.

Very pleasant experience

Came here as my travel agent recommended it. Glad I did! Quick service and friendly staff. I liked how I got babied with a juice box and lollipop at the end. Oh! And I took a picture of their sand collection! Very neat.

Travel Medical Services

Great staff -- very friendly! I came to the satellite clinic in Richmond offered on Thursday evenings and I've been to the main clinic on Broadway as well. Consult was informative and I got everything I needed promptly (yellow fever vaccine, malaria prescriptions, etc.)

DO NOT MAKE AN APPOINTMENT AT THIS CLINIC!!!!

I just came back from this travel clinic, and I wish I had just made an appointment with a nurse (no charge) to deliver the vaccines that I wanted. Their receptionist lured me in by making me feel ill-prepared should I not take advantage of their "highly trained doctors" and "up to date information" and tomes of maps and so on... The fact is that Dr. Salzman was snide, didn't know any more than I did (in fact I knew more - since you can find all the info you need on the centre for disease control website) and was very quick to make me feel like I was being irresponsible if I should decide not to take certain vaccines or medications. He actually said that "the point of anti-malaria medication is to NOT get malaria" (very snidely insinuating that to not take it would be a poor health choice) and he said all this without even CONSULTING a map. I had to ask him to look. Don't waste your time and money.

Business Reply February 11, 2013

Hi Musicmaam, We are sorry that you were not happy with the consult you had with our doctor. You are welcome to come back and have a second consult free of charge with our director, Dr. Boraston.

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Agency: Vancouver Coastal Health

Travel Clinic - Vancouver Coastal Health

Hours updated over 3 months ago

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Review Highlights

“ I really appreciate the doctor consult as she's really well versed in the different cities/areas no matter what country I throw at her. ” in 2 reviews

“ My mom has some pre-existing conditions, therefore, they were very detailed with her as to her risks, the benefits of prevention . ” in 2 reviews

“ This travel clinic is conveniently located right off of Broadway , there is plenty of street parking close by. ” in 2 reviews

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About the Business

Business owner information

Centre of Excellence in Travel Medicine for B.C. The Vancouver Coastal Health Travel Clinic is equipped with all your pre-travel needs. Our doctors and nurses provide recommended and required vaccinations, prescriptions, and health advice tailored to the individual?s medical history and itinerary. Though we are owned and operated by the public health branch of VCH, travel medicine is not covered by the government. We are a Yellow Fever designated centre and we also offer non-travel vaccines such as the shingles vaccine.Our goal is to protect travelers against preventable diseases. …

Location & Hours

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601 West Broadway

Vancouver, BC V5Z 4C2

Fairview Slopes

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Overall rating

I'm heading out to Costa Rica and Panama next week, so I visited the Travel Clinic for a consultation and to get vaccinated. This travel clinic is conveniently located right off of Broadway, there is plenty of street parking close by. Or it's a short 5 minute walk from the Broadway-City Hall Canada Line station. I was able to make an appointment the day before and they accomodated me right away. I came in and had to wait less than 3 minutes before the doctor called me in for my consultation. Dr. Suni Boraston was awesome. She had me walk her through the cities I was planning on visiting and then let me know what vaccinations I would need depending on where I was traveling to. Lucky for me, I only needed to get a typhoid booster shot. Initially I thought I was going to have to get a Yellow Fever shot, which is a bit expensive, so I was happy that I didn't need to get one. Once the consultation was finished, Dr. Boraston had me go back to the waiting room to wait for the nurse to get my shot. I only waited about 5 minutes before the nurse called me in. She walked me through the process and let me know the side effects (sore arm) and then gave me the shot. Luckily, I'm one of the few people who aren't afraid of shots, which comes in handy for times like this. I was in and out of there within 20 minutes. Easy peasy. Also, if you check in on Yelp, you get a free mosquito repellant. Now I'm set for my trip.

I love going to this travel clinic. The front desk staff and nurses are all very professional, efficient, and friendly. I've been here 3 times to get HepB shots + boosters, as required by my workplace. All 3 times the service has been amazing and the staff have been organized and on-time/ahead of schedule. From the moment I entered, I would be out within 5-10 minutes. The nurses here are always open to questions and explain things very well, often before I even asked. Once I forgot my booking, I felt bad and was worried the clinic would give me trouble but they didn't at all. This clinic makes getting stabbed with a needle a much more tolerable experience. Would be back if I ever need shots for trips.

This is definitely the clinic you should go if you're planning to travel. All staff members are professional, offer very good service, give you all the information you need and are polite and friendly. The doctor I met was great! She didn't try to sell me vaccines or medication I don't need, she was trustworthy. The nurses were also great and they gave me a shot, not directly in the muscle, so it won't be painful for days. Their costs are fair and you can talk to a doctor which in not the case in every clinic. There was a team in the clinic to welcome me the morning of my appointment and they were ready to work even if I arrived 10 minutes before my appointment. I didn't wait to see the doctor or the nurse and they gave me everything I need very quick so that's great when you're busy or you have to go to work right after. You can also find their vaccines prices on their website so it's not a surprise when you have to pay. It's easy to get a prescription for medication for your trip and there's no additional charges.

Great experience with Dr. Suni Boraston Very efficient, fast and intelligent care. I wish all of my medical experiences were this good. 10/10

Business Manager

Feb 19, 2020

Thank you so much Lennon! We are so glad you had a good experience :)

Ultimate professionals: prefer to do the vaccinations ideally 4-6 weeks before your destination, so it's good to know. Get a prescription from my doctor, and depending on what benefits plan you're on, it's all good on my end ;) It's in the gawdy looking Broadway Plaza, with the 1970s steps; best to enter from W. 9th Ave, on the other side (north) of Broadway as it's just up the steps. Clean and carpeted so doesn't feel like a clinic. You'll need to book an appointment and you can leave your AMEX at home. They also sell travelling medication like diarrhea tablets, etc. Sorry to mention this if you're eating your lunch now.

If you travel anywhere outside Canada you should go to this clinic. The specialized doctor provides advice based on which countries and regions you are visiting. There are vaccines for things like typhoid, hep A and hep B (think ice in your fancy umbrella drink), yellow fever. Any time I go to places like Mexico or Cuba, I always get Dukoral, which prevents traveler's diahrrea (aka Montezuma's Revenge). To me it's like buying travel insurance for your trip. They also do shingles vaccinations, good for seniors.

A little known gem in Vancouver health care! Before I go on any trip outside Canada I visit the clinic. I almost always get Dukoral going to places like Mexico - it's like taking out insurance so that I won't get sick on my trips. A worthwhile investment. They provide the right vaccines you need depending on where you are traveling. They also have travel products such as compression socks, mosquito nets, water bottle filters and bed bug spray.

I hate going to doctors and avoid them at all costs. I am happy to report this is a good and trustworthy travel clinic. The first thing I noticed was that they actually honored my appointment time, which is practically unheard of in the healthcare professions. They had the Economist and other good magazines to read, but I did not get the chance to read anything because I was in and out in 30 minutes. That included the doctor consult and 3 vaccinations. The second thing was no pushing me on vaccinations I did not want or need. That was important too. I've traveled extensively and the last thing I wanted was a lecture or a scare, and I got neither. I just got the shots I knew were important to the area I am visiting. I recommend checking the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website to learn more about what to expect from the places you are going. I also liked their African carvings and maps all around, it felt like a real travel clinic. Overall great experience, although I have not yet processed my insurance claim--apparently the visit ($50) plus the cost of the shots should be reimbursable through extended coverage. We shall see. Even if I paid out of pocket, it beats the hell out of typhoid fever.

May 11, 2017

Thanks for the review. We're very happy to hear that you were happy with your visit. Just a note about the extended health insurance claims: everyone's coverage will be unique and dependent on the specific plan they have. Our clinic runs on a cost-recovery basis so you're right -- we provide only the relevant vaccinations. Thanks again and we'll see you next time!

I attended this travel clinic in 2013 and was disappointed with the consultation recommendations but I decided to give it another try recently. I left the clinic feeling disappointed once again and will not be going here in the future nor referring anyone. The doctor said that I didn't need a meningitis vaccine despite the fact that I will be travelling to the "meningitis belt" in Africa, staying with locals in a village with poor sanitation, and shaking a lot of hands with people, as well as kissing a lot of babies. Upon my further questioning, she said that I should have received the meningitis vaccine as a baby and a young child, although I know that I didn't receive a booster in grade school. Every guide book and website I've consulted recommends getting a quadrivalent vaccine (she said she wasn't sure if I would have had the quadrivalent vaccine as a child, nor did she seem to care). I've since spoken with another doctor who highly recommends that I get the meningitis vaccine before I go travelling. I have little trust in the doctors at this travel clinic who are supposed to be the experts.

Meet with a doctor to find out exactly what you may need for your worldly travels! This is most likely to include Shots, but these are not in the kind you get in the club, but the ones in which a nurse stabs in your arm. Ouch. I really appreciate the doctor consult as she's really well versed in the different cities/areas no matter what country I throw at her. She gives you the straight goods on whether you really need the shot or not, doesn't oversell and leaves the decisions to you at the end of the day if you want it or not. The nurses are also very nice and if you've been a good boy or girl you can get a sucker. Feel a bit woozy and they'll provide a snack sized orange box drink. I would give this place a 5 stars if only they could find a way to vaccinate without needles or pain.

Overall this place is a waste of time. The "doctor" gave out very generic travel advice and she had a very condescending attitude, and what was most disconcerting was , information she gave me was contrary to what I later researched from multiple sources, namely the manufacturer of the vaccines. What also bothered me was that I came 5 minutes before my appointment time but they kept me waiting close to 20 minutes after my appointed time (on both occasions).

Dec 10, 2013

I'm truly sorry you had this experience. Please check your messages for more detail on how we would like to make this up to you.

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Everything you need to know about visiting a travel vaccine clinic in Vancouver

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Heading on a trip to a country that you've never visited before?

A travel vaccination clinic should be among the first places you visit after you've booked tickets -- but it might be an even better idea to head to one before buying them. 

Travel Medicine & Vaccination Centre Nurse Director Prab Cockar says some people return from trips with horror stories about getting sick overseas because they weren't aware of viruses and bacterial infections they could pick up while they were away. 

Travellers' vaccinations not covered by MSP in B.C.

The B.C. government covers the cost of some vaccinations, such as ones for COVID-19 and influenza, for people who are enrolled in the  Medical Services Plan (MSP) for British Columbia . A prescription is not needed for these vaccines.

But people who receive vaccinations only for travel are not eligible for coverage under the provincial plan. 

A visit to the clinic can be a "one-stop-shop" for potential travellers, Cockar told V.I.A. When they book a consultation, a health care professional will break down all of the health risks associated with travelling to their destination, including ones that can be prevented with immunization or treated by prescription and ones that cannot, and even what to consider about drinking local water and eating food. 

Since travel resumed following the pandemic, the clinic has seen a steady increase in appointments for travel-related vaccinations. However, there are several safety factors to consider, such as a client's age and medical history, as well as the unique destination they plan to visit. 

What to expect at the travel vaccine clinic

"Our consultants will review [the patient's] medical history, what vaccines they had as kids and then we discuss where they are travelling. We look at the full itinerary and search the place and the time of year," she said.

The clinic always recommends purchasing a comprehensive travel insurance plan that includes robust medical coverage for emergencies.

Immediately following the consultation, the patient can get vaccinated in the clinic and is given a prescription to pick up medication at their local pharmacy; they don't need to return for a follow-up visit.

The entire visit, including the consultation and vaccines, generally costs an average of $60, Cockar explained. 

What kinds of vaccines do the clinics offer?

Some vaccines they routinely administer are for viruses like Hepatitis A and B -- which are recommended worldwide -- and ones that may be more specific to exotic destinations, such as a Typhoid fever shot for travel to South East Asia. 

They also administer non-travel vaccines , such as ones that prevent HPV, Influenza, Shingle, Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis/Whooping Cough, and more.

For diseases that can't be prevented by vaccines or medication, such as dengue fever, the clinic will detail the steps necessary to prevent an infection. Since it is a mosquito-borne illness found mostly in tropical and sub-tropical climates, the best way to prevent getting sick is by covering up, such as wearing protective clothing and sleeping in a mosquito net. People should also use a mosquito repellent, such as DEET, to keep the harmful pests off of them. 

While between 100 and 400 million people are infected with the dengue virus annually, many cases cause asymptomatic or mild illness. However, a severe dengue infection can cause severe illness and even death . Except for pain management, there is no treatment for the virus, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). 

Some destinations should be avoided due to health risks

Knowing what destinations put you at greater risk for contracting particular viruses, as well as what resources may be available to you, may determine whether or not you want to visit a particular destination. For example, women who plan on becoming pregnant may want to avoid travelling to countries where it is possible to contract the Zika virus, which also does not have a vaccine.

While the Zika virus doesn't often cause severe illness in adults, pregnant women who get infected with the virus may give birth to a baby born with "microcephaly and other congenital malformations as well as preterm birth and miscarriage," says the WHO. Cases of the virus have occurred on many continents, including Africa, the Americas, Asia, and the Pacific, but some individual destinations may carry a greater risk.

The Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH)  Travel Clinic/Vaccination Clinic also provides "travel prescriptions, health advice, and vaccine recommendations based on an individual’s medical history and travel itinerary."

The coastal health authority says it is vital for people to get the appropriate vaccines before they travel outside of Canada.

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Featured Flyer

Tuberculosis Skin Testing

Certain professions require you to be up to date with vaccinations and Tuberculosis skin test screening.   In preparation for your school program or career, we can make this process as easy as possible for you!

Tb skin testing requires two appointments. 

You will need to book TWO appointments (48-72 hours apart with one of our experienced registered nurses.

Appointment #1 : A small amount (0.1mL) of test serum is injected under the first layers of skin on your forearm. The test serum is made of the purified protein derived from the tuberculosis bacteria.

Appointment #2 : A Registered Nurse will assess the area on your forearm where the test was administered. Documentation will be provided with the results of your TB skin test.

Your TB skin testing appointment can also include an occupational health consultation if you need any vaccines for school or employment.

Download Client Intake Form here

What should I bring to my appointment?

• Previous TB skin test results (if you have a record)
• A list of medications you may be taking
• Your school or employment paperwork for TB skin testing results
• Visa, MC, or Direct Debit card

*MSP vaccines and administration, vaccine history review, lab requisitions, paperwork completion.  Vaccines required by your employer or school not covered by MSP are extra, eg. TdaP (tetanus/diphtheria/pertussis), hepatitis A.

Tb skin test c ommon questions and answers

We see many people in our clinic who require a Tuberculosis skin test ( TB Skin Test ) and/or vaccinations (shots) for their school program or employment.  We’ve created a list of common questions clients ask us about the tb skin test and vaccinations.  We hope they may help answer some of your questions too!

Call us to arrange your appointment(s) 604. 251-1975 and we will book your appointment(s) to suit your schedule.  We will assist you to obtain the necessary vaccines, tb skin testing, and lab work for your school program or employment.

A: You will need to bring:

+ paperwork from your school or employer listing the vaccinations your require

+ BC Care Card (if you have one)

+ your vaccination records

Unfortunately, there is no central database containing your vaccine history.  You will need to contact each clinic or office where you received each vaccination.

Common clinics where you may have received vaccinations in the past:

• your family doctor
• public health unit (eg. Vancouver Coastal Health , Fraser Health )
• walk-in clinic
• travel clinic
• at your elementary and/or high school (You will need to contact your public health office near your school)

If you can’t remember where you received vaccinations in the past, we will assist you with the best plan for your circumstance.

You can try to locate your vaccine history from a family member, doctor’s office, or clinic where you received your childhood vaccines. If it not possible, we will provide vaccinations required for your employer or school. We may also recommend you have a blood test to determine your immunization and disease history.

Please call us to book an appointment at 604. 251-1975.  We will arrange two appointments for your tb skin test.  This test requires two appointments 48-72 hours apart.

When you book your appointment we will ask if you have received certain vaccines within four weeks of your scheduled tb test.  If you have received vaccinations such as MMR (measles/mumps/rubella), varicella (Chickenpox), shingles vaccine (Zostavax) and yellow fever, we will arrange your appointment one month after you received one of these vaccinations.

The tb skin test requires two appointments 48 to 72 hours apart.

Please note the appointments cannot be less than 48 hours or more than 72 hours apart.  If you miss your second appointment, the test becomes invalid and must be done again.

The first appointment is for the tb test: a small amount of Tubersol is injected just under the skin of your arm and creates a small bump.

The second appointment, 48 to 72 hours after the test: your arm will be seen by a nurse to determine the test results.   The nurse must see you in person to assess your arm and to give you your test results.

At the time of your second visit, the nurse will provide proof of your results to give to your school or employer.  Don’t forget to make a copy for your own records.

If you have a history of a positive tb skin test, you do not need this test again. You will need an appointment in our clinic to receive an x ray requisition in order for you to have a chest – ray. We will explain where to get your chest x ray when you come for your appointment.

Yes. Even if you have a history of receiving a BCG vaccination in the past, you can have the tb skin test safely.

We provide vaccinations as well as tb skin tests at your appointment(s).  For your appointment you will need to bring your list of vaccination requirements from your school or employer.  The nurse will review your health history and vaccination records together with you.  If you have recent lab results you could also bring these to your appointment.

Most clients can complete their vaccinations at their first appointment. Some patients may need to return for a follow up vaccination if it requires more than one dose.

You will need to make an appointment to determine the best plan for you. At your appointment, one of our nurses will review your history and will recommend the best plan to ensure you are prepared for school or work. The nurse will advise if it would be best to receive the vaccines on your visit and/or provide a lab requisition for a blood test. A blood test will determine your immunization and disease histories.

No. We we have all the vaccines you will require for your school or work. We can also provide the tb skin test and lab requisitions if required. This will save you some time and some pocket money.

Don’t forget to keep all your records of vaccinations and tb skin testing in a safe place.  You may need these important records again in the future!  A helpful free resource to keep your own digital history of your vaccinations is available with CANimmunize .

To arrange an appointment please call 604. 251-1975 or book now .

Our telephone hours are M-F 9:00am-5:00pm. Saturdays 9:00am-4:00pm. On Sundays our clinic is closed, and we check email intermittently. Please contact [email protected] . Appointment times are arranged to suit your schedule and may be booked outside the hours listed below.

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