Toronto has a public and private healthcare system. The public healthcare system is called the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). OHIP is used by Canadian citizens and permanent residents, but not by foreigners.
Canada’s Healthcare System
Public hospitals in Toronto are generally recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgery. The public hospitals in Toronto are well-equipped and staffed with experienced medical professionals. However, wait times can be long and the facilities may not be as modern as private hospitals. Foreigners are allowed to use the public healthcare system in Canada, but they may not be eligible for certain services.
Expats typically use private hospitals for serious medical emergencies and major surgery. Private hospitals in Toronto are well-equipped and staffed with experienced medical professionals. They also have shorter wait times and more modern facilities than public hospitals.
Hospitals and Clinics for Expats in Toronto
- Mount Sinai Hospital: Private hospital located in downtown Toronto.
- Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre: Public hospital located in North York.
- Women’s College Hospital: Private hospital located in downtown Toronto.
- St. Michael’s Hospital: Public hospital located in downtown Toronto.
- Toronto Western Hospital: Public hospital located in downtown Toronto.
- Toronto General Hospital: Public hospital located in downtown Toronto.
- Humber River Hospital: Public hospital located in North York.
Emergency Services in Toronto
Toronto has an ambulance service that can be called by dialing 911. Ambulances usually arrive quickly, but there can be delays depending on the time of day and the severity of the emergency.
Health Insurance Companies in Toronto
The most popular private health insurers in Toronto are Manulife, Sun Life Financial, and Great-West Life. Expats and digital nomads typically use these companies or specialized expat health insurance providers.
