If you’re new to Canada and you have questions like — “Are all medical services free here?” or, “Is it safe to see a doctor right now?” — here are some answers to help you navigate.
When I migrated to Canada in 2014, I had to have medical coverage as part of the travel insurance required to live in the country. When I happily became a permanent resident a few years later, it was a relief to learn I could now get Canadian healthcare like any citizen.
Thankfully, applying for a health card was easy enough. And since then, the medical system has been easier to navigate than I first anticipated.
If you’re new to Canada and you have some of the same questions I’ve had, like — “Are all medical services free here?” or, “Is it safe to see a doctor right now?” — here are some answers to help you navigate.
What does public health insurance cover?
Public healthcare coverage varies across provinces and territories. All provinces and territories provide free emergency medical services, even if you don’t have a government health card. There may, however, be some restrictions based on immigration status.
In Canada, non-emergency dental care, eye care, prescription medicines and mental health services aren’t typically covered by public health plans, so you might consider taking out a private health insurance plan. Many employers offer private health insurance — check your employee contract to see if that’s the case for you.
How do I apply for public health insurance remotely?
You need a health insurance card to get your health care services covered by public health plans. Application forms for your health card can be found at provincial registry offices — here’s a full guide on how to apply for your health card, visit https://discover.rbcroyalbank.com/applying-for-a-health-card-made-easy/.
If you’re uncomfortable with going into a physical office right now because of the coronavirus, you can download a registration form online.
How soon can I get public health insurance?
The good news is that some waiting times have been waived because of COVID-19: If you’ve just moved to Ontario, for example, you no longer need to wait three months to be covered for healthcare, visit https://www.ontario.ca/page/apply-ohip-and-get-health-card to know more.
You can apply anytime, but in Canada, newcomers typically need to live in a specific province or territory for up to three months before they can receive public health coverage.
What can I do while I wait for public health insurance?
If you’ve applied for public health insurance but haven’t received your health card, here are ways to manage your health care needs in the interim visit https://discover.rbcroyalbank.com/navigating-canadas-health-care-system-while-you-wait-for-your-health-card/ .
If you take out private health insurance, your insurance provider may cover telemedicine services like Maple, which lets you see a registered Canadian doctor online. They can talk to you via video, phone call, or chat — whenever you need, check for symptoms and diagnose you virtually, and/or write you a sick note or a prescription. If needed, they can also order
bloodwork or diagnostic imaging.
Note: Telemedicine isn’t a replacement for emergency care. If you need immediate, life-saving help — call 911.
Is telemedicine an option if I am unable to meet a doctor in person?
Many provinces now offer virtual healthcare options in place of in-person doctor’s appointments — in the pandemic, I’ve even been able to talk to my doctor via instant messaging.
It’s likely telemedicine will extend beyond the pandemic. If you’re covered by B.C. provincial healthcare, for example, you can get weekday telemedicine treatment from Maple covered through your public Medical Services Plan, visit https://www.getmaple.ca/msp-and-virtual-healthcare/ to know more.
It’s likely telemedicine will extend beyond the pandemic. If you’re covered by B.C. provincial healthcare, for example, you can get weekday telemedicine treatment from Maple covered through your public Medical Services Plan.
Starting October 5, newcomer clients who start banking with RBC can get access to one free virtual visit (rbc.com_onlinedoctor) with a doctor through Maple until March 18, 2021.^
How do I get a family doctor now?
In Canada, a family physician is often the first point of contact for most healthcare situations. A family doctor ensures continuity of care, by following your life cycle, and maintaining the health records of you and your family.
Finding a doctor with space for new patients may not always be easy.
Finding a doctor with space for new patients may not always be easy. The best way to begin your search is to see if your province or territory has a centralized waitlist.
Almost all provinces have physician directories on their Provincial College websites. Some of them, like the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario website through its Doctor Search (https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/?search=general ), may even help find a doctor who speaks your preferred language.
^Limited time offer available to eligible newcomers with a qualifying bank account or credit card. One free Maple online consultation ($99 value) must be used by March 18, 2021. Conditions apply.
