Lifelabs

It’s not the most pleasant thing to need to get blood drawn or samples collected but this LifeLabs in Steveston make it a little nicer with their efficiency. Generally busy in the mornings but later in the day it quiets down.
Plenty of free parking at the front and back of the health centre, you gain access to LifeLabs first through the windowed doors facing Chatham Street, walk a little further in and you’ll see the LifeLabs entrance.
Make sure to have your lab requisition and Care Card ready, and the secretary will enter and print out your stickers. From there you wait in the white chairs and when they call your name you wait in a tiny room filled with bloodwork tubes and sit in a booth chair waiting for you. It helps if your hydrated and warm so the technician can find and draw the blood from your vein easier. Sit still, relax and breath and it’s usually done in no time. The 2 times I’ve been here they have been quick and the pokes have been small pinches with only 1 attempt and no in-​out-​in-​out methods needed (I know I have thin and tricky veins, so if they get it on the first try I know they’re good). A few minutes of holding the puncture site to prevent bleeding and bruising and you’re on with your day. Make sure to stay if you feel dizzy and let them know, if you’re prone to that, keep some candies with you. Otherwise, when you’re finished, go out and enjoy the wonders of Steveston Village!
Note: If you’re in a real rush, book an appointment!