Even without the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP), you still have access to healthcare in Ontario. Many doctors accept patients with private health insurance or those who can pay out-of-pocket for their services.
Pregnancy and Maternity Care
If you are pregnant and without OHIP, you may contact a midwife. Midwives offer care to all residents in their area, regardless of their OHIP status, ensuring you receive the necessary prenatal and postnatal care.
Community Health Centres
Community Health Centres (CHCs) are non-profit organizations providing primary care and other community support programs. They have teams of health professionals who offer services like primary healthcare, health promotion, illness prevention, and community education to everyone in their community, regardless of their insurance status.
Inter-Provincial Healthcare
When moving from one province to another in Canada, there may be a waiting period before you qualify for health insurance in your new province. Check with both your previous and new province to understand the rules and ensure continuous coverage.
Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP)
The IFHP covers medical services for a certain period after your arrival in Canada. It is available for resettled refugees, protected persons, refugee claimants, and victims of human trafficking. The coverage type and duration depend on your status in Canada.
University Health Insurance Plan (UHIP)
International students are not eligible for OHIP but can get coverage through their educational institutions. Public universities offer UHIP, while colleges and private universities have other plans. These plans cover the student and may also cover their spouse and children if they are in Canada. The cost of this insurance is included in tuition and student fees.
Private Insurance
Consider purchasing private insurance before traveling to Canada. Ensure your policy covers your travel period and arrival in Canada, as many companies do not cover one-way travel. Your employer may also offer a health insurance plan, so check with your manager or HR department. Specific medical insurance is required for the Parent or Grandparent Super Visa application. Use online resources or the OmbudService for Life & Health Insurance Finder to locate private insurers.
Working Holiday Visa
International travelers with a work visa are eligible for OHIP after 90 days of full-time work in Ontario. This is especially useful for LGBTQIA+ individuals on working holiday visas.
Pharmacy Services
Pharmacies can fill prescriptions, offer medication counseling, and suggest treatments for common medical issues. Pharmacists can prescribe or recommend treatments for minor ailments.
Health811
Health811 connects you with a registered nurse for free, secure, and confidential health advice, available 24/7. This service can guide you on healthcare options and immediate medical advice.
Summary:
- Pregnancy Care: Midwives provide care regardless of OHIP status.
- Community Health Centres: Offer primary care and support programs for all.
- Inter-Provincial Healthcare: Check waiting periods when moving between provinces.
- IFHP: Temporary coverage for specific groups upon arrival in Canada.
- UHIP: Health plans for international students.
- Private Insurance: Ensure coverage before traveling and check employer plans.
- Working Holiday Visa: OHIP eligibility after 90 days of full-time work.
- Pharmacy Services: Prescriptions and minor medical advice available.
- Health811: 24/7 access to registered nurses for health advice.
Last modified: December 15, 2024
