Canada, with a population of 35.1 million, has 10 provinces and three territories. Even though it is the second-largest country in total area, 80% of Canadians live within 200km of the US border.

Q. What kind of healthcare system does Canada have?

Canada has a government-funded, national healthcare system, which provides Canadian citizens and Permanent Residents with prepaid medical care and hospital care. Most healthcare services are covered, including all tertiary-care services. Cosmetic procedures done for vanity purposes (e.g., face lifts) are not covered. Coverage for dental care, prescription drugs, hearing aids, and home care varies by province.

Each province is responsible for the administration of its own healthcare insurance. The insurance is funded through personal and corporate income taxes. Some provinces charge an additional annual health premium, e.g., Ontario charges between $0 and $900 per year, depending on one’s taxable income.

The health insurance is “portable,” meaning if you need medical/hospital care while visiting a province in which you are not living, the home province will pay for your care.