Healthcare System in Canada: everything you need to know

How does the Canadian health care system work?

The public health care system in Canada, called Medicare, is financed through taxes. It provides coverage to citizens, permanent residents, some people with work permits and in some cases refugees. The system is divided among the country's 13 provinces and territories which independently manage their own health care system.

This means that there are thirteen public health care systems in Canada. They have the obligation to cover the medical needs in their region. However, definitions of medical necessity may vary from region to region therefore some services may be covered only in certain regions. 

The program covers all medical expenses considered essential such as emergency care, medical appointments, among others. However, it does not cover dental, vision or prescription drugs purchased outside of a hospital. This is why many Canadians choose to pay for supplemental private health insurance to cover expenses excluded in the public system.

For those who do not qualify for the public system, they must pay out-of-pocket for international health insurance or the local private health system. Anyone, whether a tourist or a temporary resident, has access to emergency care, however the local system will not cover these expenses, therefore it is advisable to purchase travel insurance or international health insurance if you are visiting the country. 

How can I enroll in the public health care system if I live in Canada?

Because there are 13 different systems for each province and territory, it is important to check if you qualify for the system within the region where you are living. In the following links you will find information on how to enroll in the public health system in each region of Canada:

• Alberta: https://www.alberta.ca/ahcip-how-to-apply.aspx
• British Columbia: Plan Medico Local
• Manitoba: https://www.gov.mb.ca/health/mhsip/forms.html
• Nova Scotia: https://novascotia.ca/DHW/msi/health_cards.asp
• Ontario: https://www.ontario.ca/page/apply-ohip-and-get-health-card
• Quebec: https://www.ramq.gouv.qc.ca/en/citizens/health-insurance/register
• Yukon: Local Health System
• New Brunswick: Local Health System
• Northwest Territories: Local Health System
• Newfoundland and Labrador: Local Health System
• Prince Edward Island: Local Health System
• Nunavut: Local Health System
• Saskatchewan: Local Health System

If I travel for vacation, what is best option for me?

If you are traveling on vacation for a short period of time, the best option is to enroll in a travel insurance plan that can offer coverage in case of any unforeseen event. Health care in Canada without health insurance is very expensive, so it is better to be prepared.

However, if you are traveling for a longer period of time, to study or work for more than a year, you have the option of entering the local private health system. You may also choose to enroll in a international health insurance plan with coverage in Canada. 

InternationalHealth.com has a wide variety of international health insurance and travel insurance plans, check out the best options in the following link.

What do I do if I have a medical emergency in Canada?

In case of an emergency you can call 911 for medical or police assistance. You may also call for assistance from an ambulance. However, it is important to note that an ambulance service can be expensive, so remember to always be covered by medical insurance. 
 

How do pharmacies work in Canada?

You will be allowed to enter the country with a 90-day supply of prescription or over-the-counter medication. The medication must be in its original box with the name and characteristics. 

You cannot use prescriptions from doctors outside of Canada to purchase medication, no pharmacy will allow you to do so. Therefore, if you know you will need medication, it is preferable to bring it with you or make an appointment with a doctor who can prescribe the medication.

You can go to a walk-in clinic which is usually faster and a doctor will be able to evaluate your condition. Remember to bring your prescription from your country so that the doctor can identify what you need.

If you are an international student, local universities often have a doctor on site who will be able to give you a prescription. 
 

Entry Requirements

Effective October 1, 2022, all entry requirements due to Covid-19 have been eliminates for citizens and foreign nationals entering Canada.