The Canadian Healthcare System
Healthcare in Canada
All Canadian citizens and permanent residents are eligible for health insurance in Canada.
The health insurance system is set up to meet the needs of the people for health care, rather than for their ability to pay. Often referred to as “medical care”, the system is designed to ensure that all residents of Canada have reasonable access to medical care from doctors and hospitals.
Instead of having a single national plan, the health care program in Canada is made up of health insurance plans that provincial and territorial share some common characteristics and standards. The Canadian public health care system is financed through taxes and administered by the provinces and territories.
Public health insurance
All Canadians and permanent residents may apply for health insurance. When you have health insurance do not pay directly for most health services. They are paid through taxes. When using the services of health care, simply you to show your health card in the hospital or medical clinic where you are visiting.
Health insurance is different in every province and in every territory. Some medical care offered in a province or a territory might not be covered in other provinces and territories. When you are traveling, check your coverage: you may need private health insurance.
It is advisable to apply for health insurance card from the provincial or territorial government as soon as possible after arrival in Canada.
You can get an application form at the office of a doctor, a hospital, a pharmacy or an immigrant-serving organization. You can also get online forms from the Ministry of Health of your province or your territory.
Documents needed
When you apply for a health card will need to show proof of identity, such as a birth certificate or passport, or your Confirmation of Permanent Residence (IMM 5292). You can also show your Permanent Resident Card.
What you will receive
In most provinces and territories, each family member receives their membership card with an identification number personal health. In Manitoba, only adults receive health insurance cards. They list the name of each family member and the personal identification number.
Your health insurance card showing your name, your address, your gender and your date of birth. You must carry the card with you and show it in a hospital or clinic when you or someone in your family needs health services.
Private health insurance
Private health insurance is available for all services that may not be covered under the health insurance plan of your province or territory. These might include dental expenses, private hospital rooms, and the cost of prescription drugs, dental care, ambulance services and eyeglasses. Some employers offer the option of paying health insurance extra in your paycheck.
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