Health Care in Canada

Welcome to Canada! Understanding how to access health care is crucial for your well-being and peace of mind. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the Canadian health care system.

Health Card

Upon arriving in Canada, one of your first steps should be to apply for health insurance through your province or territory’s health ministry. Your health card serves as proof of your health insurance coverage and is essential for receiving medical care.

• Application Process: It may take up to 3 months to receive your health card. During this waiting period, it’s advisable to have private medical insurance to protect yourself and your family. Settlement service providers can assist you in applying for your health card and finding a family doctor.

• Always Carry Your Health Card: You must present this card every time you need medical care. Each family member will receive their own health card.

For more details, visit Canada’s official health care page.

Health Emergencies

In Canada, the way you access medical care depends on the severity of your injury or illness.

• Non-Urgent Care: For minor issues, you can visit a walk-in clinic, consult your family doctor, or speak with a local pharmacist.

• Hospital Emergencies: Emergency departments prioritize the most serious cases first, such as breathing difficulties, heart attack or stroke risks, severe bleeding, or broken bones. This system might differ from what you’re used to in your home country. In case of a health emergency, call 911 or go directly to your local hospital’s emergency department.

Vaccinations

Vaccinations, also known as immunizations, are crucial for protecting you and your family from serious diseases. Ensure that your vaccinations are up to date, especially when registering your child for school, as you’ll need to provide proof of immunizations.

Mental Health is Part of Overall Health

Mental health is an integral part of your overall well-being. If you or someone you know feels very sad, anxious, or stressed, you can seek help from:

• Family Doctor or Walk-In Clinic: For initial support.

• Settlement Service Providers: They may offer short-term counseling services.

• Help with Family or Gender-Based Violence: If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse, contact your local settlement service provider for assistance.

Refugee Claimant or Protected Person

If you came to Canada as a refugee, refugee claimant, or protected person, you might be eligible for the Interim Federal Health Program, which provides temporary coverage of basic and supplemental health services, including prescription drugs. Learn more here.

List of Hospitals in Toronto

Toronto is home to many hospitals, each with its specialty areas:

• Downtown Toronto:

  • St. Michael's Hospital: General Hospital, Trauma Care

  • Toronto General Hospital: Organ Transplant, Cardiology, Cardiovascular Surgery

  • Mount Sinai Hospital: Women's Health, Neonatology, Genetics

  • The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids): Pediatric Care, Pediatric Research

  • Women's College Hospital: Women's Health, Ambulatory Care

• Midtown Toronto:

  • Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre: Trauma Care, Cancer Treatment, Neurosciences

• North York:

  • Toronto Western Hospital: Neurology, Neurosurgery, Musculoskeletal Health

  • North York General Hospital: Maternal and Newborn Care, Cancer Care, Geriatric Care

  • Humber River Hospital: Digital Health, Surgical Services, Chronic Disease Management

• Scarborough:

  • Scarborough Health Network - General Hospital: Maternal and Newborn Care, Emergency Medicine

  • Scarborough Health Network - Birchmount Hospital: Outpatient Care, General Surgery

  • Scarborough Health Network - Centenary Hospital: Orthopedics, Mental Health Services

• East York:

  • Michael Garron Hospital: Mental Health Services, Obstetrics and Gynecology

• West Toronto:

  • St. Joseph's Health Centre: Palliative Care, Mental Health Services, Complex Continuing Care

  • Bridgepoint Active Healthcare: Rehabilitation and Complex Continuing Care

• Queen Street West:

  • CAMH - Centre for Addiction and Mental Health: Mental Health and Addiction Services, Research

Getting a Health Card in Ontario

To apply for a health card in Ontario, visit Service Ontario. You’ll need to provide documents proving:

• Ontario Residency: Such as a rental lease or a bank statement.

• Immigration Status: Such as a Permanent Residence Card (green card).

The process typically takes 4 to 6 weeks.

Finding a Family Doctor

A family doctor is essential for managing your health care. To find one:

• Register online with Health Care Connect or call 1-800-445-1822.

• Use the Find a Doctor Search tool.

If you do not have a family doctor, you can visit a walk-in clinic. In emergencies, call 911 or visit your local hospital.

Additional Resources for Newcomers

Explore free services for newcomers, including:

• Job search assistance

• Language assessments and classes

• Finding a place to live

• Registering your children for school

• Learning about community services

For more information, visit Newcomer Services.

Navigating health care in a new country can be challenging, but with the right information, you can ensure that you and your family receive the care you need. Welcome to Canada, and take advantage of the resources available to you!