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Applying for a Health Insurance Card

It is crucial for you to apply for a health insurance card as soon as you arrive in Canada. Every member of your family, even newborn babies, must have their own card. You can obtain an application form from the provincial ministry of health office, a hospital, a doctor’s office or a pharmacy. The immigrant-serving organization in your region can even help fill out the form for you, if needed. In order to apply for a health card, you must have your birth certificate or Confirmation of Permanent Residence (IMM 5292) and passport. The permanent resident card may be submitted as well. You will receive coverage soon after you apply in most provinces.

Health-care services covered by medicare include:
·checkup and treatment by family doctors;
·hospital care;
·many types of surgery;
·X-rays;
·most treatment by specialists;
·many laboratory tests;
·most immunizations.

Health-care services uncovered by medicare, on which you have to spend money, include:
·prescription drugs;
·ambulance services;
·dental care;
·glasses and contact lenses.

However, these services are sometimes covered by workplace welfare packages.

The main use of your health insurance card is in the province where you live. If you are visiting another province and encounter a medical emergency, it is acceptable to use your card. Nevertheless, if you move to another province, you will have to apply for a new card.