Get health care

OHIP (Ontario Health Insurance Plan) is Ontario’s health care plan. Through OHIP, the province pays for many of the health services you may need.

You need to apply and, once you’re approved, you’ll get an Ontario health card which proves you’re covered by OHIP. You’ll need to show your health care every time you see your doctor, visit an emergency room, have a medical test or go for surgery.

It can take up to three months for your OHIP coverage to begin after you’ve been approved. During this time, you may want to consider buying private health insurance.

To apply:

1. get an application form:
   • online
   • or from your local Service Ontario OHIP Office
2. collect all  of the documents you need
3. fill out the form and deliver it in-person to your local Service Ontario OHIP Office

It can take up to three months for your OHIP coverage to begin after you’ve been approved.

Learn more about:

• how to apply for a health card
• what services are covered by OHIP
• how to find a family doctor or nurse practitioner
• Mental Health Helpline
• buying private health insurance for immigrants, newcomers and visitors

If you don’t have an OHIP card

If you don’t have private insurance but need to see a doctor before the three month waiting period is over:

• call 911 if it’s an emergency
• for non-emergencies, contact:

• Telehealth at 1-866-797-0000 for free, medical advice over the phone
• your local Community Health Centre, you may be able to get health services
• a settlement agency in your community who can help you find health services
• visit a walk-in clinic and pay directly for services (you will not be refunded for these services)