5 things international students need to know about the Canadian health care system
Making the move to Canada for school is a major step – especially if you’re an international student. Aside from your school and studying, you’ll need to learn about this new country, including its health care system.
Before you make the big move, here’s what you need to know about the Canadian health care system and how it impacts you.
1. It’s universal
Canada has a universal, public health care system called Medicare. This publicly funded system comes from taxpayer dollars. Comprehensive coverage is available to everyone, with Medicare covering 100% of the population.
While there are other supplemental programs, like extra coverage for prescription drugs, dental care, eye care, rehab and some other programs, Medicare still covers the majority of vital health insurance for all.
2. There are regional differences
Because the government distributes funds to different provinces and regions, you may see differences in how a territory manages those funds. For instance, some indigenous populations face larger inequities compared to other regions and may need more government and social action than others.
3. It’s not completely free
Because it’s taxpayer-funded, residents pay for Medicare through their taxes, equating to about US$6,500.00 per person.
As an international student, you won’t pay taxes, but you may still have to cover other costs, like specific medications or procedures. You may also pay in the form of your time, since some Canadians face long wait times to see doctors and specialists. It doesn’t cover everything, and many Canadians have supplemental insurance, whether through private employers or other programs, to cover those extra needs.
4. You might have to wait awhile
A 2023 study done by the Fraser Institute found that the average wait time for a medical appointment was 27.7 weeks from referral to receiving treatment. And it varies widely based on the region in which you’re looking to get care, so it’s important to keep wait times in mind.
If you’re looking for specialist care, you also may want to consider going to another country. It could help you avoid very long wait times to get the health care you need.
5. It’s still growing
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is committed to improving the Canadian health care system. According to the Associated Press, last year, Trudeau’s administration proposed distributing CA$196 billion (or US$146 million) to territories and provinces to relieve some of the challenges they’re facing.
This addition would amount to about one-quarter of federal assistance to help territories. While short of the more than one-third they’re asking for, it’s an improvement from what they’ve been experiencing.
Next steps
There’s a lot to learn when you move to a new country. Going to school is already a big step for international students, and getting sick or injured can be a lot to handle. It might help to be proactive. Try to find out what health care you’re eligible for as an international student and what you need to do for both preventative care and in case of an emergency.
Depending on where you live, you may have to wait longer (or shorter) for health care compared to other regions and territories. And you might have to get additional coverage for other health-related needs, depending on your circumstances.
Ask your school if you have resources available to you as a student and specifically as an international student. Find out what you need before you need it. That way if something comes up, you’ll know the steps to take to get proper care.
Health care isn’t always easy to navigate, especially when you’re in a foreign country and aren’t familiar with the laws and processes. Take some time to learn how the Canadian health care system can and will impact you during your stay in the country.
You may want to sign up for an international health care plan but have peace of mind knowing that if something were to happen, you’re 100% covered in case of an emergency.
