Getting health care in French

For people more comfortable in French than English, seeing a doctor in French helps explain symptoms accurately. Outside Quebec, how possible this is depends heavily on where you live.

Where French-language care is easier

• New Brunswick, where about 30% of people speak French, has many public services in both languages.
• The Francophone communities IRCC selected to welcome newcomers often have health and community services in French. For example, IRCC says the Seine River region (Manitoba) offers many recreational, health and community services in French, and Sudbury has good health and social resources.
• In large mainly English-speaking cities, French-speaking doctors and clinics exist but are fewer.

How to find them

• Use IRCC's newcomer services finder (if you are eligible) or ask a Francophone community organization; many offer services in French.
• Ask local Francophone organizations or the Francophone Immigration Network in your province.
• When booking, ask the clinic directly whether a French-speaking doctor is available.
• If not, ask about interpretation or bring someone to support you.

Your rights as a patient

• According to IRCC, all doctors in Canada must keep your health information confidential: they can't discuss it with anyone without your permission.
• Tell your doctor about every medication you take, including over-the-counter ones.

Note Learn basic medical vocabulary in both French and English (symptoms, allergies, medical history). It helps at appointments and in emergencies.