New Westminster Public Health Unit – New Westminster, BC

Fraser Health Community Hub

The New Westminster Public Health Unit is a vital community health facility operated by the Fraser Health Authority. Located in the uptown district at 610 Sixth Street, this unit focuses on health promotion, disease prevention, and providing support services to families and individuals across their lifespan. Unlike a hospital or urgent care centre that treats acute injuries, the Public Health Unit is dedicated to proactive wellness programs, communicable disease control, and developmental support. It serves as a primary access point for residents to obtain essential health resources, immunizations, and confidential counselling in a supportive, non-judgmental environment.

Family and Child Health Services

A significant portion of the unit’s work is dedicated to the well-being of infants, children, and parents. The facility offers a comprehensive suite of services designed to support early childhood development:

• Child Health Clinics: Routine monitoring of growth and development, along with public funding childhood immunizations.
• Breastfeeding Support: Lactation consulting and support for new mothers/parents to ensure successful feeding practices.
• Speech and Hearing: Screenings and therapy referrals for children exhibiting delays in speech or hearing development.
• Dental Health: The Fluoride Varnish Program and dental assessments for young children, particularly those from low-income families.

Adult and Community Care

Beyond pediatrics, the unit provides critical public health interventions for the broader adult population. This includes the Sexual Health Clinic, which offers free and confidential testing for sexually transmitted infections (STIs), HIV/AIDS support, and reproductive health education. The unit also plays a central role in Harm Reduction strategies, offering safe supplies (such as needle distribution and collection) and drug checking services (fentanyl test strips) to reduce the risks associated with substance use. Additionally, the Communicable Disease Control team operates from this location to manage outbreaks and follow up on reportable diseases within the community.

Facility Access and Hours

The Public Health Unit is situated on the second floor of the building, accessible via elevator, making it fully wheelchair friendly. It operates seven days a week, with extended evening hours on weekdays to accommodate working families. Visitors should note that while many services are available by appointment, some clinics (like harm reduction supply pick-up) may have specific drop-in windows. Parking is available on-site in the paid commercial lot or on surrounding streets. As a healthcare facility, mask-wearing policies may vary based on current respiratory virus seasons, so visitors are advised to check signage upon entry.