Endometriosis Support in
British Columbia

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Living with endometriosis in British Columbia can involve navigating referrals, regional differences in care, and long wait times for specialist services. This page outlines common care pathways, available supports, and practical next steps if you’re encountering barriers.

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🏥 Hospital-Based Clinics & Programs

 

In British Columbia, endometriosis care is most often provided through public, hospital-based gynecology and women’s health services, particularly within larger regional and academic centres.

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Care may be available through:

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• Hospital gynecology clinics

• Women’s health programs

• Chronic pelvic pain or multidisciplinary pain services (where available)

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In some regions, care is coordinated through hospitals within Vancouver Coastal Health, Fraser Health, Island Health, Interior Health, and Northern Health. Availability, scope of services, and wait times vary by health authority and referral pathway.

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Examples are provided for awareness only and do not represent endorsements or guarantees of access.

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For a broader overview of providers across Canada, visit the Endometriosis Canada Care Directory.

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👉 Explore the Canada Care Directory

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🧭 Referral Pathways in British Columbia

 

Access to gynecology and endometriosis-related care in BC typically requires a referral.

Common referral routes include:

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• A family physician or nurse practitioner

• Primary care clinics or urgent care centres (if you do not have a regular provider)

• Referrals routed through regional health authorities

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Some referrals are triaged through centralized intake systems, while others are directed to hospital-based clinics. Processes and wait times vary significantly by region.

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Health Navigation Support

 

HealthLink BC (811) can help with health system navigation, especially if access to primary care is limited.

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👉 HealthLink BC (811)

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Helpful tips when requesting a referral:

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• Clearly describe symptom severity and daily impact

• Ask that suspected endometriosis or chronic pelvic pain be documented

• Inquire about pelvic pain or women’s health programs where available

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Experiencing delays or repeated referrals is common and not a reflection of the validity of your symptoms.

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♿ Disability & Income Supports in

British Columbia

 

Some people with endometriosis may qualify for provincial disability or income assistance, depending on functional impact.

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Disability Assistance (Persons with Disabilities – PWD)

 

The PWD program provides financial assistance and health-related benefits to eligible British Columbians.

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👉 Learn more about Disability Assistance (PWD)

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Eligibility is based on how a condition affects daily functioning, not on diagnosis alone. Medical documentation is typically required.

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✈️ Travel & Out-of-Region Care

 

In some cases, individuals may need to travel outside their local region for specialized care.

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Key points to consider:

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• Coverage and approvals vary by situation

• Some referrals are coordinated through regional health authorities

• Travel and accommodation costs may not be fully covered

 

If you are considering care outside your region, discuss options early with your healthcare provider and ask about any required approvals.

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🧩 Local Supports & Community Resources

 

Community-based endometriosis support resources vary across British Columbia and may not be formally integrated into the healthcare system.

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Local supports may include:

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• Peer-led support groups

• Community health organizations

• Pain management or wellness programs

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📩 If you run a verified support group or clinic-based program in BC, contact Endometriosis Canada to be considered for inclusion.

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🏫 Work & School Accommodations

 

In British Columbia, you may be entitled to reasonable accommodations at work or school under the BC Human Rights Code.

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Examples of accommodations may include:

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• Flexible or modified schedules

• Remote or hybrid work options

• Academic accommodations or medical leave

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Accommodations are based on functional limitations, not solely on having a diagnosis.

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💛 Need Help Navigating Care?

 

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, facing long wait times, or unsure where to turn next, you’re not alone.

Endometriosis Canada is here to help you navigate care, supports, and next steps.

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👉 Contact Endometriosis Canada
👉 Explore the Canada Care Directory

 

⚠️ Important Note

 

Care pathways, availability, and policies may change over time and vary by region.
This information is provided for navigation and awareness and does not replace medical advice.

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