Health Care in Victoria

The system in Victoria, offers a mix of public and private services to cater to the needs of its residents and visitors. The public healthcare system, known as the Medical Services Plan (MSP), provides coverage for most medically necessary services, while private healthcare options are available for those seeking additional services or faster access to care.

Canada's Healthcare System

Canada's public healthcare system, the Medical Services Plan (MSP), covers most medically necessary services for residents, including hospital care, diagnostic services, and physician services. Foreigners visiting Canada on a temporary basis, such as tourists, are not covered by the MSP and must rely on travel insurance or pay out-of-pocket for medical services. Expats and digital nomads who become residents of British Columbia can apply for MSP coverage after a waiting period, typically three months. Public hospitals in Victoria are generally well-equipped and staffed, and many people recommend them for serious medical emergencies and major surgeries. However, wait times for non-emergency procedures can be long. Private hospitals in Victoria offer faster access to care and additional services not covered by the MSP, but they are typically more expensive. Expats may choose to use private hospitals for certain services, but many still rely on the public healthcare system for major medical needs.

Hospitals and Clinics for Expats in Victoria

Some recommended hospitals and clinics in Victoria include:

• Royal Jubilee Hospital (public) - located at 1952 Bay St, Victoria
• Victoria General Hospital (public) - located at 1 Hospital Way, Victoria
• St. Joseph's Hospital (private) - located at 2137 Comox Ave, Comox, specializing in surgical services
• Uptown Medical Clinic (private) - located at 3561 Blanshard St, Victoria

In case of specialized medical care or surgeries not available in Victoria, expats may need to travel to Vancouver, which is approximately 3-4 hours away by car and ferry.

Emergency Services in Victoria

Victoria has ambulance services available for emergencies. To call for an ambulance, dial 911 and provide the necessary information to the operator. Ambulance response times can vary depending on the location and severity of the emergency, but they generally arrive within a reasonable time frame.

Health Insurance Companies in Victoria

Some popular private health insurance companies in Victoria include Pacific Blue Cross, Green Shield Canada, and Manulife. These companies offer various plans and coverage options to suit individual needs. Expats and digital nomads may choose to use these local insurance providers or opt for specialized expat health insurance providers, depending on their preferences and requirements.