How to Navigate the Canadian Healthcare System as an Immigrant ?

Sanjay Yadav
[Published 20 Aug, 2024 | 12:24 PM]
About Author - 5 min read
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Canada is an amazing nation globally acclaimed for its multiethnic society, stunning landscapes, and publicly funded healthcare. If you wish to apply for Canada PR Visa, it is crucial to be aware of its healthcare system.

We have here briefly outlined all that you need to know as an aspiring immigrant to Canada regarding its healthcare system.

Unraveling free health care system in Canada

Once you fulfil the Canada PR eligibility requirements and are successful in the application, you can arrive in the nation as a Permanent Resident status holder. You can then file an application to access Medicare – publicly funded healthcare services.

Medicare offers essential medical services such as hospital stays, doctor visits, and diagnostic tests for free or reduced costs. These services are essentially funded and delivered individually by Provincial Governments. The precise delivery and coverage can differ marginally provincially.

So it is advisable that you confirm this with the intended province for your residence in Canada.

Generally, Medicare does not include services and items such as vision care, dental care, and prescription drugs. Without suitable private health insurance, you may have to pay for these services on your own.

Thus, you must know what is covered and what is not to consider your options cautiously.

Application for a Health Card

You will have to first file an application for a Health Card in Canada to access Medicare Services. It is generally cost-free to file an application for the Health Card also popular as the Provincial Health Card.

The process of application is diverse according to the province; nevertheless, supporting documents are needed irrespective of the Province. This includes evidence of immigration status and residency and ID issued by the Government.

Note that a few Provinces can have a waiting period of even 90 days before you can access healthcare.

After verification of your application, you can utilize the card to utilize medical care covered by the Government. The card is needed for each visit to the hospital or doctor to confirm your eligibility.

Finding a Family Physician

Family Physicians or GPs - General Practitioners offer necessary primary healthcare services and are a valuable part of the healthcare system in Canada. They can assist you in understanding the care options, making informed choices, and providing referrals to specialists when needed.

You can find a family physician by enrolling in the healthcare system in the province and seeking recommendations from colleagues or friends. You can also utilize online resources like the Doctor Locator toll of the Canadian Association.

How to get help to access urgent care in Canada

Free emergency medical treatment is available in Canada, irrespective of immigration status and a health card is not needed. But it is recommended that you visit the nearest hospital in an emergency. If you are not a resident of that territory or province, a fee may be charged by some walk-in clinics.

You can dial 911 to contact an ambulance, police, or fire services if you are unable to go to a hospital, irrespective of your location in Canada. Usually, ambulance services cost is partially covered by every province and patients have to pay a lower co-pay amount.

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Private Health Cover plan - a smart choice

Two-thirds of Canadians have private health insurance that offers an extensive range of services, benefits, reduced waiting times, and an expanded network of healthcare providers.

Moreover, you must note that a few Canadian provinces can offer health coverage to only their residents. It implies that you may be not covered if medical attention is needed or if an accident occurs exterior of your province's limits.

Often, private health plans are obtained as employee benefits. It is smart to know the prospective limits and explore options for alternative coverage.

For example, the Overseas Health Plan by Cigna Healthcare offers swift access to quality care wherever and whenever needed. It includes 24/7 online and phone GP appointments and mental healthcare support to hospital care inclusive of cancer care.

If you wish to immigrate to Canada as a skilled worker from India and know the Canada Occupation In-Demand List 2024; contact Immigration Experts at the Best Immigration Consultants in India Nationwide Visas.

Get a free consultation session and determine the best option to apply for your situation.

Call us on +91 92 92 92 92 81 or email us at info@nationwidevisas.com.

Start your process today!

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