A mobile application that helps the public find local health services has been updated to include laboratory services.

The BC Health Service Locator app was unveiled by the government of British Columbia in February 2012 and has had over 7,000 downloads. The app helps the public find nearby hospitals, emergency rooms, immunization clinics, after-hours pharmacies and walk-in clinics from an iPhone, iPad or iPod Touch. Health service locations are pinpointed on a map and include detailed service descriptions, hours of operation, contact information and address.

The upgraded version now includes medical laboratory services, helping the public locate the nearest laboratory service when they leave their physician's office if blood work or other laboratory services are required. Current users will need to upgrade the app on their hand-held device.

The BC Health Service Locator app is designed for non-emergency health service location assistance and information. Users can view the latest health alerts on the HealthLinkBC website from within the app. Users can have instant access to call HealthLinkBC at 8-1-1 for non-emergency health information and 7-1-1 for hearing-impaired assistance. For immediate emergency help, always call 9-1-1.

The BC Health Service Locator app was created by HealthLinkBC at almost no cost to government using mostly volunteer government employees and is available through the iTunes App Store.

Quotes:

Minister of Health, Dr. Margaret MacDiarmid -

"The BC Health Service Locator app has been popular with British Columbians seeking easily accessible health service information. Having laboratory services now included in this new version will make it easier for individuals to find nearby laboratory locations if they require blood work or other lab services. We are hoping this change will provide information for patients faster by simply using their iPhone, iPad or iPod Touch."

Learn More:

To download the app, visit: http://itunes.apple.com/ca/app/bc-health-service-locator/id487323272?mt=8

To learn more about BC Health Service Locator app, visit: http://www.healthlinkbc.ca/app/

Media Contact:

Ryan Jabs
Media Relations Manager
Ministry of Health
250 952-1887 (media line)