Where to Go for Medical Care When You Don't Have a Family Doctor

Canada's Public Health Insurance System

Canada's public health insurance (Medicare) is managed by provinces and territories, with federal funding through the Canada Health Transfer. All eligible residents can apply for public health insurance and receive a health card, which is essential for accessing care.

Under the Canada Health Act, public insurance must cover medically necessary hospital and physician services, as well as certain surgical-dental services. Provinces and territories decide what is medically necessary and determine coverage for other services like prescription drugs, dental care, optometry, chiropractic, and ambulance services, often targeting specific groups.

Options When You Don't Have a Family Doctor

Hospital Emergency

For emergencies, go to the nearest hospital emergency room. Emergency services are generally provided even without a health card, though there may be restrictions based on immigration status.

Walk-in Clinics

Walk-in clinics may charge fees if you are not a resident of that province or territory. Check your coverage if you are outside your home province.

Pharmacists

For minor illnesses or injuries like colds, headaches, or minor cuts, you can consult a pharmacist. They can recommend over-the-counter medication, but cannot prescribe. You pay for these medications yourself.

Telephone or Online Consultations

Some provinces and territories offer telephone or online consultations. Contact your ministry of health to see if such services are available.

Getting a Family Doctor

While not all Canadians have a family doctor, many prefer having one for continuity and scheduled appointments. Family doctors (GPs) provide basic care, including treatment, health advice, blood tests, blood pressure checks, and referrals to specialists.

To find a doctor, contact your provincial or territorial ministry of health, ask friends or family, or check local clinics for availability.

Prescription Drugs and Dental Care

Medications provided in hospitals are free, but prescription drugs from pharmacies are usually not covered by public insurance. Many Canadians have private insurance through employers or provincial drug programs. Contact your employer or ministry of health for coverage options.

Public insurance typically does not cover most dental services. Check with your public health authority or private provider for coverage details.

Traveling Outside Your Province or Canada

Emergency hospital and physician services are covered when traveling within Canada, but non-emergency care may require approval. Extra services like prescription drugs and ambulance are often not covered.

When traveling abroad, public insurance covers only a portion of emergency costs, based on home province rates. You are responsible for the difference. Consider purchasing private health insurance before traveling.