Get help navigating Ontario’s health care system and connecting with the programs or services you're looking for.
OHIP
OHIP is Ontario’s health care plan. Through OHIP, the province pays for many of the health services you may need.
Get temporary health coverage:
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:
- get an application form:
- collect all of the documents you need
- 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)
Finding health care
Get help over the phone 24/7
Telehealth Ontario
Get fast, free, general medical advice:
- Toll-free:
1-866-797-0000 - Toll-free TTY:
1-866-797-0007
Mental health and addictions support
Get referrals for:
- Mental health: 1-866-531-2600
- Drug and alcohol addiction: 1-800-565-8603
- Problem gambling: 1-888-230-3505