Canada has a universal, tax-funded public health system. According to IRCC, every citizen and permanent resident can apply for public health insurance.
Who runs it
- The federal government funds the 13 provinces and territories.
- Each province and territory runs its own health insurance plan, issues health cards and decides which services are medically necessary and covered.
- Provinces also regulate health professionals; complaints about doctors go to the provincial regulator.
What's covered
According to Health Canada, all provincial plans cover medically necessary hospital and physician services and some surgical-dental services. According to IRCC, with public insurance you don't pay for most health services or emergency care.
What usually isn't covered
- Most prescription drugs from pharmacies.
- Most dental and vision care.
- Home care and ambulances (depending on the province).
Provinces offer extra coverage to some groups (seniors, children, people on social assistance). Many people use employer group plans or private insurance for these costs.
Using the system
| Need | Where to go |
|---|---|
| Regular check-ups and follow-up | Family doctor |
| Non-urgent care without a family doctor | Walk-in clinic |
| Minor illness (colds, headaches, small cuts) | Pharmacist |
| Emergencies | Call 911 or go to a hospital emergency department |
Waiting periods
According to IRCC, newcomers may wait up to 3 months in some provinces; buy private insurance for this period.
Note All doctors in Canada must keep your health information confidential and can't share it without your permission.
Provincial health cards
Private health insurance