How Does Healthcare Work in Ottawa, Ontario? A Guide for New Residents
Written By Liam Swords
If you’re planning a move to Ottawa, understanding how the healthcare system works is essential especially if you’re relocating from another province or country.
It’s a common question I get with my clients who are moving to Ottawa from another city.
This guide explains how public healthcare operates in Ottawa, how to apply for coverage, and what to expect when accessing medical services.
Public Healthcare in Ottawa: What Is OHIP?
Ontario’s public healthcare system is called OHIP — the Ontario Health Insurance Plan. If you’re eligible, OHIP covers most medically necessary services at no cost. These include:
- Family doctor visits
- Hospital stays and surgeries
- Emergency care
- Maternity and prenatal care
- Diagnostic tests like X-rays or blood work
You don’t pay out-of-pocket at the time of service; the system is funded through provincial taxes.
How to Apply for OHIP in Ottawa
New residents must apply for a health card through ServiceOntario. This health card gives you access to the full range of OHIP-covered services.
To apply, you’ll need:
- Proof of identity (e.g. passport or driver’s license)
- Proof of Ontario residency (e.g. lease agreement, utility bill)
- Proof of immigration status or eligibility
Note: There is typically a three-month waiting period before your coverage begins. During this time, it’s recommended to get private insurance to cover any medical needs.
You can start your application and check the most up-to-date requirements on the Ontario government website.
Finding a Doctor in Ottawa
Securing a family doctor can take time depending on the neighbourhood.
Fortunately, Ontario offers Health Care Connect, a provincial program that helps match you with a physician who is accepting new patients.
Other tips:
- Ask local clinics directly
- Check with walk-in clinics (many are OHIP-covered)
- Ask for referrals from neighbors or co-workers
Until you’re matched, walk-in clinics and urgent care centers are great alternatives. They handle non-emergency issues and are often open evenings and weekends.
If you’re still exploring the area and trying to decide where to live, this guide to the best neighbourhoods in Ottawa may help you weigh your options.
What’s Covered by OHIP — And What’s Not
Covered:
- Doctor’s visits and consultations
- Hospital care, surgeries, and emergency services
- Lab tests (e.g., bloodwork, ultrasounds)
- Maternity and pediatric care
- Telehealth/virtual care
Not Covered:
- Prescription drugs (unless you’re under 25, 65+, or enrolled in special assistance plans)
- Dental care (for most adults)
- Eye exams for ages 20–64
- Mental health therapy outside hospitals
- Ambulance services (only partially covered; co-payment usually required)
To fill these gaps, many residents rely on employer-provided benefits or purchase private health insurance for services like dental care, prescriptions, massage therapy, physiotherapy, and mental health support.
If you’re budgeting for your move, it’s also helpful to understand the average utility costs in Ottawa, which can vary by season and housing type.
Hospitals and Emergency Care in Ottawa
Ottawa is home to several major hospitals and healthcare institutions:
- The Ottawa Hospital – General Campus
- The Ottawa Hospital – Civic Campus
- Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO)
- Queensway Carleton Hospital
- Montfort Hospital (Francophone services available)
For urgent but non-life-threatening issues, urgent care centers and walk-in clinics are available throughout the city. You can also call Health Connect Ontario at 811 to speak with a registered nurse 24/7.
You can learn more about what life is like in Ottawa to get a broader sense of what day-to-day living looks like, beyond just healthcare.
Healthcare for Children and Families
Ottawa offers strong healthcare support for families:
- Prescription drug coverage for children under 25 through the Ontario Drug Benefit program
- Free dental checkups for children up to age 17 under certain public health programs
- Access to CHEO, one of Canada’s top pediatric hospitals
- Public health units offering parenting classes, vaccinations, and newborn wellness visits
If you’re moving from another city, such as Montreal, it may be helpful to review this guide on moving from Montreal to Ottawa for additional relocation considerations.
For Self-Employed and Small Business Owners
If you’re starting a business or working independently in Ottawa, private health insurance is highly recommended. Plans are customizable and can cover:
- Prescription medications
- Vision and dental care
- Physiotherapy and chiropractic
- Mental health services
You can also refer to this complete guide on moving to Ottawa for tips on settling in, from housing to lifestyle.
If you’re planning a move and want a smoother transition into life in the capital, whether it’s understanding healthcare, neighborhoods, or day-to-day living, having the right guidance makes a difference.
For personalized support from someone who knows the city inside and out, connect with a trusted Ottawa real estate agent who can help you feel at home, faster.
Liam Swords is an accomplished real estate agent in Ottawa, having sold over 1,000 homes. As the team leader of Liam Swords Team, he combines extensive market knowledge with a commitment to client satisfaction.
