Navigating a new healthcare system can be daunting, but Ottawa offers a robust network of services to ensure newcomers have access to quality care. From understanding the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) to finding a family doctor, this guide will help you get started. 

Understanding OHIP: Ontario’s Public Health Insurance 

Ontario residents are covered by the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP), which provides access to a range of healthcare services. As of March 2020, the three-month waiting period for OHIP coverage has been eliminated, allowing eligible newcomers to access healthcare immediately upon establishing residency in Ontario, as long as they meet pre-existing requirements. 

To apply for OHIP, you must visit a ServiceOntario centre and provide the necessary documents, including proof of residency and identity. Detailed information on eligibility and the application process is available on the Ontario website. 

What OHIP Covers 

• Visits to your family doctor or general practitioner 
• Hospital stays and medical services provided in hospitals 
• Emergency room visits 
• Medical or surgical abortions 
• Eligible dental surgery in the hospital 
• Eye-health services provided by optometrists for patients under 20 or over 65 
• Podiatry services (partial coverage) 

What OHIP Does Not Cover 

• Prescription drugs for individuals aged 25 to 64 
• Dental services provided in a dentist’s office 
• Routine eye exams for individuals aged 20 to 64 
• Eyeglasses and contact lenses 
• Cosmetic surgery 
• Ambulance services (a co-payment may be required) 

Finding a Family Doctor or Nurse Practitioner 

Having a primary care provider is crucial for ongoing health management. If you don’t have one, the Health Care Connect program can assist. After registering, a Care Connector (a nurse) will help you find a family doctor or nurse practitioner accepting new patients in your area. 

Additionally, the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) offers a Physician Search tool to locate doctors by location, specialty, and language spoken. 

Design for the new Ottawa Hospital campus. Source

Building the Future of Care: Ottawa’s Healthcare Infrastructure 

Beyond day-to-day access, Ottawa is actively investing in the future of healthcare for residents, new and old. The city is planning a major transformation of its medical infrastructure, outlined in The Ottawa Hospital Master Plan, which will guide the development of a new, state-of-the-art Civic Campus. 

This new facility—expected to be the largest hospital development in Ottawa’s history—will offer: 

• Expanded emergency care capacity 
• Advanced surgical suites and diagnostic technology 
• A modern, patient-first environment built for both innovation and accessibility 
• Greater support for aging populations and chronic illness management 

The plan reflects Ottawa’s commitment to long-term community health. It’s not just about keeping up with demand; it’s about redefining how healthcare is delivered for the next generation of residents, professionals, and families. 

For newcomers considering their options for where to build their future, this focus on forward-thinking care offers peace of mind and real quality-of-life value. 

Accessing Walk-In Clinics for Immediate Care 

For non-emergency medical issues, walk-in clinics are a convenient option. They don’t require appointments and can handle minor illnesses or injuries. Resources like Medimap and Skip the Waiting Room provide up-to-date information on clinic locations, hours, and wait times in Ottawa. 

The Sandy Hill Community Centre in Ottawa – Source

Community Health Centres: Comprehensive and Culturally Sensitive Care 

Ottawa’s Community Health Centres (CHCs) offer a wide range of services, including primary care, mental health support, and community programs. They focus on serving diverse populations and often provide services in multiple languages. 

Notable CHCs in Ottawa include: 

• Centretown Community Health Centre 
• Sandy Hill Community Health Centre 
• South-East Ottawa Community Health Centre 

These centres are especially beneficial for newcomers seeking culturally appropriate care. 

 

An image of the entrance to the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario in Ottawa. Source

Pediatric Care at CHEO: Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario 

For families arriving in Ottawa with children, the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO) is a vital part of the city’s healthcare system. CHEO is a specialized pediatric hospital offering care for infants, children, and youth up to age 18. 

From emergency pediatric services to mental health support, chronic illness care, and developmental services, CHEO delivers family-centred care tailored to the needs of young newcomers. If your child requires specialized services, your family doctor or a walk-in clinic can help refer you to the right department. 

CHEO also provides language interpretation services, cultural support, and education resources in multiple languages, ensuring all families feel welcome and informed. 

Specialized Services for Newcomers 

The Ottawa Newcomer Health Centre (ONHC) provides temporary primary care services to eligible clients, assisting with navigating the healthcare system and connecting to ongoing services. 

For broader support, Ottawa Public Health offers resources tailored to immigrant and diverse populations, including mental health services and community programs. 

Emergency Services in Ottawa 

In case of a medical emergency, dial 911 or visit the nearest hospital emergency department. Ottawa has several hospitals with emergency services: 

• The Ottawa Hospital – Civic and General Campuses 
• Queensway Carleton Hospital 
• Montfort Hospital 

Private Health Insurance: Bridging the Gaps 

While OHIP covers many essential services, it doesn’t cover everything. Private health insurance can help cover: 

• Prescription medications 
• Dental care 
• Vision care 
• Paramedical services (e.g., physiotherapy, chiropractic care) 
• Ambulance services 

Newcomers may consider purchasing private insurance to cover these services, especially during the initial period before securing employment with health benefits. 

Employer-Sponsored Health Benefits 

Many employers in Ottawa offer supplementary health insurance to cover services not included in OHIP. These benefits often include: 

• Prescription drug coverage 
• Dental and vision care 
• Mental health services 
• Wellness programs 

For example, companies like Hydro Ottawa emphasize employee health and well-being through comprehensive healthcare benefits and wellness programs. 

Additional Resources and Support 

• Health811: By calling 811, you can speak with a registered nurse 24/7 for health advice and information on local services.
• Champlain Healthline: Offers a comprehensive directory of health services in the Ottawa region.
• Settlement.Org: Provides information on health insurance and other services for newcomers. 

Ottawa’s healthcare system is designed to be accessible and supportive, ensuring newcomers can find the care they need. By understanding OHIP, connecting with primary care providers, and utilizing community resources, you can confidently navigate your healthcare journey in Ottawa. 

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