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Healthcare & Social Services

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Nanaimo is the central health services hub for central and northern Vancouver Island, supported by a growing and diverse healthcare ecosystem.

The sector includes 877 businesses, led by offices of other health practitioners (27%), social assistance services (22%), and child day-care services (17%).

As the city’s largest employer, with over 9,100 jobs, this sector provides a strong foundation for economic stability while creating opportunities for healthcare innovation and service expansion.

Nanaimo continues to attract healthcare professionals and investment, supported by population growth and regional demand.

Here's a breakdown of businesses in the Healthcare and Social Services sector:

SOURCE: NANAIMO ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT OFFICE, JULY 2026
Business TypeCount% of sector
Offices of Physicians11813%
Offices of Dentists556%
Offices of Other Health Practitioners24127%
Out-Patient Care Centres10%
Out-Patient Mental Health Centres, etc.20%
Family Planning Centres51%
Medical and Diagnostic Laboratories121%
Home Health Care Services233%
Other Ambulatory Health Care Services20%
Nursing and Residential Care Facilities506%
Social Assistance18922%
Individual and Family Services10%
Child and Youth Services10%
Services for the Elderly and Disables Persons101%
Other Individual and Family Services152%
Community Food and Housing and Emergency, etc. Services61%
Child Day-Care Services14617%
Total877100%

Last updated: June 16, 2026

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