How health care works in Canada
Updated 2026-10-19English original
Official source: Health Canada · Canada's health care system ↗
Published 2026-10-19Last checked 2026-10-19Language English
If this page and the official page differ, the official page is right.
The basics
Canada has public health insurance run by each province and territory. With your health card, medically necessary doctor visits and hospital care are covered.
Finding a doctor
Many people register with a family doctor. Waiting lists can be long. In the meantime, use walk-in clinics, virtual care or telehealth lines.
Emergencies
Call 911 for emergencies. For non-urgent advice, most provinces have a free health line staffed by nurses.
Not usually covered
Prescription drugs for most adults, dental care and eye exams for adults. Ambulance fees apply in some provinces. Workplace benefits often help.
General information, not legal advice. Every guide links to the official source and shows when we last checked it. For your own case, use IRCC’s tools or a licensed consultant.