Frequently Asked Questions

  • How long is the wait for a consultation? Is there a cancellation list?

We always provide the estimated waiting time for consultation to the practitioner who referred you so you can contact them for this information. We do not have a cancellation list and cannot provide updates on your position on the waitlist. We will contact you as soon as we are able to schedule your appointment.

  • I left a message, when will I hear back?

We return messages based on urgency, usually within 1-3 business days.  Please note the office may be closed when Dr. Liu Hennessey is on call at VGH, which can happen for one full week at a time.

If you need immediate assistance or your condition becomes serious, please head to your nearest emergency department, urgent care centre, or call 911.

  • How long will the appointment last?

New consults are booked for 30 minutes and any follow up and post operation appointments are booked for 10 minutes.

Dr. Liu Hennessey takes time to provide thorough, compassionate care. We appreciate your patience if your appointment is delayed due to another patient requiring more time.

  • What should I bring to my first appointment?

Please arrive 15 minutes before your appointment and bring the following:

* Identification containing your Personal Health Number
* A list of current medications you are taking
* A list of past surgeries

  • Can your office arrange for a translator?

No. If you need help with English, please bring a family member or trusted friend with you to the appointment.

  • When will my procedure be?

Surgery times are allocated by the hospital, and we will book you for the earliest available date. We are not able to estimate wait times in advance.

If you have travel plans or other dates when you’re unavailable, please let us know as early as possible

  • What if I need to cancel an appointment or procedure date?

Clinic Cancellation Policy

If you feel sick or unwell, please notify our office immediately to reschedule. If you do not show up to your appointment and did not notify us at least 48 hours in advance, a rescheduling fee must be paid prior to the appointment being rescheduled.

* Consultation appointment rescheduling fee: $150.00
* Follow-up appointment rescheduling fee: $50.00

Endoscopy Cancellation Policy

Endoscopy appointments must be cancelled or rescheduled at least 7 days in advance. Cancellations made within 7 days, including as a result of failure to find a responsible adult to pick you up from the procedure, will result in the following rescheduling fee:

* Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD)/gastroscopy/flexible sigmoidoscopy: $150.00
* Colonoscopy: $250.00
* Colonoscopy + EGD: $400.00

  • Are there fees for a doctor's note?

A physician letter providing the date of surgery emailed to you is free of charge.

Paper copies of physician letters, letters including other information as deemed appropriate by Dr. Liu Hennessey, and completion of insurance forms, disability claims, and other medical documents are not covered by MSP. The fee varies depending on the complexity of the request and starts at $50.00.

  • How do I quit smoking?

We recognize that quitting smoking is tough, but having a quit plan that will prepare you for the challenge is key to success.

All BC residents can access FREE support through the QuitNow program offered by the BC Lung Foundation. 

  • I live far away.  Is there support for travel and accommodation?

Yes. Here are details on travel and accommodation assistance from Vancouver Coastal Health.

  • Where can I find more information about my hospital stay and care?

Please visit the Patient Guides of Vancouver Coastal Health.