How Healthcare Works in Canada

✅ 1. Apply for Your Health Card

Each province has its own health card.

You’ll usually need:

• Your ID

• Your immigration documents

• Proof of address

Some provinces have a waiting period before coverage starts. If that’s your case, don’t panic. Just apply as soon as you can.

✅ 2. Find a Family Doctor (If You Can)

A family doctor is your main doctor for:

• Check-ups

• Sickness

• Referrals to specialists

Not everyone gets one quickly, and that’s okay. Many people use walk-in clinics at first.

✅ 3. Walk-in Clinic vs Emergency Room

• Walk-in clinic: For non-emergency problems (fever, pain, infections, check-ups)

• Emergency room (ER): For serious or life-threatening problems

If it’s urgent or dangerous, go to the ER. If not, a clinic is usually faster.

✅ 4. What Your Health Card Covers

Your health card usually covers:

• Doctor visits

• Hospital visits

• Many basic medical services

It may not cover:

• Dental

• Eye care (for adults)

• Some medicines

That’s normal. Many people get extra insurance later.

✅ 5. Keep Your Health Info Safe

• Keep your health card in a safe place

• Don’t share it with others

• Bring it with you to appointments

It’s an important little card 😄

💡 Small Reminder

You don’t need to understand the whole system at once.
Just start with:

1. Apply for your health card

2. Know where to go when you’re sick

3. Ask questions when you’re not sure

That’s enough for now.