Special Health Issues for Newcomers

Immigrants and refugees may find that language, cultural and socio-economic barriers make it hard to access health care services. Culturally sensitive health services are an important part of programs at Community Health Centres and some community agencies.

How can I pay for health services in my first 3 months in Ontario without OHIP?
Generally, there is a three-month waiting period from the date you arrive until you are covered. During this period, you have a couple of options to access health services in Ontario.

What do immigrant and refugee women need to know about abuse?
Many settlement, ethnocultural and community-based agencies can give you the help and support that you need. Services at these agencies are confidential and may be offered in languages other than English and French.

If I leave Ontario, will I still have health care coverage?
Most of your Ontario health benefits are covered across Canada. If you travel outside of Canada, you may wish to get additional private insurance coverage.

What is the Interim Federal Health (IFH) program?
Refugee claimants who are not yet covered by OHIP are eligible to receive emergency and essential health services through the Interim Federal Health (IFH) Program.

What services are available for victims of torture?
Refugees often require special counselling to repair the physical and psychological damage produced by these experiences. The Canadian Centre for Victims of Torture (CCVT) is a non-profit organization of doctors, lawyers, social workers and community groups that helps victims to integrate successfully into Canadian society.

Where can I find help as a pregnant woman arriving in Ontario?
There are many organizations that provide services for pregnant women in communities across Ontario. You can find services and support in newcomer-serving organizations, community-based non-profit organizations, community health services offered by the city or regional government, community centres, and hospitals.

Where can I find health information in other languages?
A number of websites in Canada and abroad have information about health and health issues in many different languages.

Special Health Issues for Newcomers

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