Health, Safety and Mental Health
Royal Metro College is committed to supporting the health, safety, and overall well-being of all students. The College provides access to information and community resources to help students maintain their physical and mental health while studying in British Columbia.
This information is made available to prospective and current students before enrolment, upon arrival, and throughout their studies.
Students who are unsure where to begin may contact Student Services at studentservices@royalmetro.ca for guidance.
Medical and Emergency Services
In case of emergency, students should call 911 or go to the nearest hospital emergency department.
Nearest Hospital
Royal Columbian Hospital
330 East Columbia Street, New Westminster, BC
Phone: 604-520-4253
https://www.fraserhealth.ca/Service-Directory/Locations/New-Westminster/royal-columbian-hospital
For non-emergency medical concerns, students may access walk-in clinics or urgent care services:
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Fraser Health – Urgent and Primary Care Centres
https://www.fraserhealth.ca/Service-Directory/Services/primary-care-services/urgent-and-primary-care-centre -
HealthLink BC (call 8-1-1 for medical advice and service navigation)
https://www.healthlinkbc.ca/
Health Insurance (MSP)
International students studying in British Columbia for six months or longer are generally required to enrol in the Medical Services Plan (MSP). Students are responsible for ensuring they have appropriate health coverage for the duration of their studies.
More information:
https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/health-drug-coverage/msp
Mental Health and Well-Being
Royal Metro College encourages students to seek support if they experience stress, anxiety, homesickness, or other mental health concerns.
Students may access the following services:
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Here2Talk – free and confidential counselling support for students in British Columbia
https://here2talk.ca/ -
Government of British Columbia mental health resources
https://helpstartshere.gov.bc.ca/ -
Fraser Health community mental health services
https://www.fraserhealth.ca/your-community/new-westminster
Crisis and Immediate Support
Students in crisis or requiring immediate assistance may contact:
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Fraser Health Crisis Line
604-951-8855
Toll-free: 1-877-820-7444 -
Emergency services: call 911
Addiction, Overdose, and Naloxone
British Columbia provides access to free take-home naloxone kits, which can temporarily reverse the effects of an opioid overdose.
Students may obtain naloxone kits from participating pharmacies and community health locations.
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Province of BC – Naloxone Program
https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/overdose/naloxone-kit -
Toward the Heart – Naloxone information
https://towardtheheart.com/naloxone
Pharmacies and Health Services
Local pharmacies provide prescription services, basic health advice, and access to naloxone kits. Students may visit nearby pharmacies such as Shoppers Drug Mart, London Drugs, and other community pharmacies.
Student Support
Students who need assistance accessing health, mental health, or community services may contact:
Disclaimer
This page provides general information only and does not replace professional medical advice. In an emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.