Vanderhoof Health Facilities
The St. John Hospital has been in existence since 1941. The hospital is part of the Stuart Nechako Regional Hospital District servicing a region with a population base of 5,000 located in Vanderhoof. St. John Hospital is a 24 acute care bed and eight bassinet facility with a staff base of 180.
The St. John’s Hospital services include:
- Emergency treatment
- Labor and delivery
- X-ray and ultrasound
- Minor orthopedic surgery
- Minor general surgeries
- In-patient recreation and physiotherapy
St. John Hospital is a teaching facility for the University of Northern British Columbia. Visiting specialists are referred for orthopedics, urology, ororhino-laryngology (ENT). Services that are operated on an outpatient basis from the St. John Hospital include:
- Diabetic counseling and daycare
- Occupational therapy
- Smoking cessation program
- Dietetic services and counseling
- Healthy heart program
The Mental Health Unit serves the communities of Vanderhoof, Fraser Lake, Fort St. James and Burns Lake, providing on-site counselling and outreach services for adults with crisis and persistent mental disorders. A visiting psychiatrist and geriatric psychiatrist provide delivery for 4-5 days once every four months.
Vanderhoof has three dental clinics, a private physiotherapy clinic, a local search and rescue group, as well as 20 other health related support groups, volunteer associations and service providers.
Vanderhoof Community
Nestled in the Nechako Valley, on the banks of the Nechako River, Vanderhoof is the geographical center of British Columbia. The Vanderhoof Bird Sanctuary, along the route of the Pacific Flyway is considered a mecca for bird watchers. The major industries include forestry and agriculture. Vanderhoof offers affordable housing and natural splendour that supports a balanced lifestyle. Local activities include golfing, skiing, horseback riding, curling, skating, bowling, tennis, fishing, boating, canoeing, water-skiing, hunting and camping. There are seven elementary schools, one secondary school and several private schools, as well as opportunities for continuing adult education.