Canada’s Healthcare System
Canadians are proud of their healthcare system, which
provides comprehensive coverage for Canadian citizens
and permanent residents.
The Importance of a Health Card
Healthcare is the responsibility of the provinces and
territories. Each provincial or territorial Ministry
of Health oversees the services in its jurisdiction.
Each province/territory also issues health cards. Every
member of your family (including infants) must apply
for a health card in order to receive health services.
Applying for a Health Card
Health card application forms are available from all
provincial/territorial Ministries of Health and at some
doctors’ offices, pharmacies and hospitals. You
can also get one from an immigrant-serving
organization.
Before you leave for Canada, visit
the website for the Ministry
of Health of the province or territory you’re
moving to. There, you will find information about the
documentation you will need (such as your birth certificate,
passport, Confirmation of Permanent Residence and/or
your permanent resident card) and how to get your health
card as quickly as possible.
What’s Covered?
Services are similar across Canada, but there are some
regional differences. Be sure to check with your Ministry
of Health for detailed information about coverage in
your home province or territory.
With your health card, you will not need to pay for
basic or emergency medical care including:
- Visiting a doctor
- Visiting a nurse practitioner or public-health
nurse
- The services of a medical specialist (such as a
gynecologist or psychiatrist) as ordered by your doctor
- Being treated at a hospital (both emergency and
non-emergency)
- Tests that are ordered by a physician (such as
blood tests and specialized diagnostic procedures)
You will not be covered for:
- Dental services
- Eye exams and eyeglasses
- The cost of prescription drugs
Getting More Coverage
Some individuals and families choose to pay for private
health insurance, which covers items not included under
public healthcare benefits. Some employers offer group
health insurance as a benefit of employment.
In British Columbia, Ontario, Quebec and New Brunswick,
there is a three-month waiting period while a person’s
eligibility for a health card is being reviewed. Depending
on your needs, you may want to purchase temporary private
coverage, such as the RBC
Visitors to Canada health insurance. During this
waiting period, you may be eligible for coverage through
the Interim Federal Health Program. Contact
Citizenship and Immigration Canada for more information
and to check your eligibility.
Federal:
 |
Government
of Canada’s Health Portal — Includes
information about health services for newcomers, and
relevant links. |
 |
|
Citizenship
and Immigration Canada — For more information
about health services. |
|
Provincial:
Health card applications information. For more information
on applying for your health card (including the documentation
you will need) in your destination province/territory,
use the following links:
Health services by province/territory:
The content of this website is provided
for the general guidance and benefit of our clients.
This website is for informational purposes only and is
not intended to provide specific advice. See
full disclaimer. |
