I will miss Dr. Bester as he now retires. He has been helpful, professional and most of all compassionate. He is not perfect, Surprise! But he comes close enough for me. I always felt heard and not rushed. He made sure I got through all the things I wanted to check on that were on my list. (I always bring one to assist my memory.) He is willing to try something different if a treatment is not working and gives referrals to specialists when needed. Have a great retirement, Dr. B. You deserve it.

Submitted March 15, 2016

Dr. Bester use to be good. Now he wants to complain about First Nation getting control of their health fund. On two occasions during my appointment he went on about it for apx. 30 min. I had to tell him if he wish to talk about it he could take personal time and have a coffee to talk at that time. He does not respect other doctors opinions who see his patients in er. He disqualifies a patients concerns of health getting worst. He does not like to help when you need medical leave reports but is quick to charge for any time even though he does it right there in your appointment time. For long term medication he will give just enough so you have to go back every two weeks, even though he makes you wait from 30 min. to 1hr while he only talks for 5 minutes. He complains if he must talk over 10 minutes and tells you to book another appointment. I wish I could switch to another doctor. I have been with Bester since he came to Merritt and these last few years have been bad. :-( When I asked for a referral to a specialist he got upset with me saying I do not trust him. I told him I am getting more sick and it is only right to ask for a second opinion. my last medical condition it took another doctor to determine what it was and later Bester tried to claim he knew but felt since it was long term there was no point to say anything. So he let me suffer for a year until this other doctor helped and now I have medicine to help control it. I do not recommend him. His staff (not wife who works there) are amazing people who are always kind and friendly.

Submitted Nov. 2, 2015

He is by far the best doctor I have ever had. He always takes the time to listen and is so knowledgeable.

Submitted Aug. 1, 2014

Dr Bester has always been compassionate & supportive NEVER once making me feel as though my symptoms were "all in my head" even though all tests and procedures indicated nothing was wrong. His sense of humour and ability to really listen are just a bonus of being his patient. From everything I've heard & read of other doctors in Merritt (& far too many other communities) I know i am fortunate to have him as a GP

Submitted Oct. 6, 2013

My name is Tim Martindale and I tell ya you negative speaking people are just pissed off because you didn't get your way our weren't able to con a good bloody doctor and person in general. The one person can't blame Barney for his sisters drug issues have any of got any idea how much **** doctor's face from addicts? Sure they didnt want to become addicted but that's what happens with medications it's enevitable you just have to be honest with DrBester and he'll help "ANYONE". I feel all the negative things said were unfair and shouldn't have been said. Sometimes people (Doctor's too) make mistakes and fortunately the pregnant gal or her baby didn't suffer "ANY" damage so remember Doctor's are human too and can't possible know everything there is to know. Do make****ty comments about a guy who probably the best Doctor (Or in the top 3) that Merritt has ever had. I find it funny/insulting that one person said it took them 14 years to move on, Just mad I'm sure. No worries Barney...

Submitted Sept. 21, 2013

Would never consider changing dr's. He's the BEST!Or BESTER.... I have seen him for about 11 years and I think he is very knowledgable and puts me at ease.

Submitted Nov. 28, 2012

An excellent and caring doctor. He does not push drugs and he takes the time to know you.

Submitted March 23, 2012

I found Dr. Bester's attitude quite arrogant - although I always respected his time, he never alotted enough time to listen to what I had to say about my symptoms. I am greatful there are other drs to choose from in our town.

Submitted Oct. 1, 2010

Totally humiliated me and not knowledgeable to the cancer I had. Hche has never really helped in any of the 14 years we have had him as a family doctor...so happy we switche

Submitted May 27, 2010

I fully trust Dr. Bester as my physician. He is ultra personable, knowledgable and NOT a pill pusher. His front end staff is also friendly and efficient. I would recommend anyone looking for a great family doctor to consider Barney. He is the best!

Submitted June 1, 2009