Public Health Insurance (Provincial/Territorial): Who Qualifies and What You Get
Learn how provincial health coverage works in Canada, including which medical services are covered and what costs remain your responsibility.
This scheme provides coverage for essential medical services through provincial or territorial health plans across the country.
Who it's for
All legal residents are eligible to participate in this health coverage system. Eligibility is based on your status as a legal resident within a specific province or territory.
What you get
You receive coverage for medically necessary services. This includes professional services provided by physicians and necessary medical services received while staying in a hospital. The goal is to ensure that essential medical care is available to residents when it is medically required.
What it costs you
This system is funded through taxes collected by the government. While you do not pay a specific premium for every visit, you must have a valid provincial health card to access these benefits. Depending on your location, these plans may be known by local names such as OHIP, MSP, or RAMQ.
The catch to know
It is important to understand that this coverage has specific limits. This scheme does not cover prescriptions, dental care, or vision care. If you require coverage for medications, dental work, or eye care, you will likely need to have private top-up insurance to cover those specific costs.
How to apply
- Identify your specific province or territory of residence.
- Contact your local provincial or territorial health office to begin the process.
- Provide the necessary documentation to prove your legal residency and identity.
- Obtain your provincial health card to use for medical services.