Child Healthcare in Québec (and Other Provinces): A Mom’s Guide
Many families—whether in Québec, Ontario, or British Columbia—move here as newcomers and wonder how children’s healthcare works. As an immigrant mom, I’ve been through it myself, so here’s a clear, updated guide to healthcare in Québec and other provinces across Canada.
1. RAMQ Health Card (Québec)
After arriving, apply for the RAMQ health card within 15 days; Quebec covers children from day one. You’ll need:
- Proof of status (PR card or CSQ)
- Québec address
- Optionally, proof of previous insurance if eligible to waive the waiting period
Online registration is available at the RAMQ website. Coverage typically starts by month three. Other provinces run OHIP or MSP with similar systems—but check each province’s newcomer timelines.
2. Registering for a Family Doctor or CLSC
In Québec and other provinces, having a family doctor is essential because they’re your main point of contact for most health issues and referrals. But getting one isn’t always easy. You can register through the official GAMF platform (Guichet d’accès à un médecin de famille), which is available here. After registering, you’ll be added to a waiting list—most of families wait over a year. In the meantime, local CLSCs and the 811 phone line are useful alternatives for non-emergency care.
Those without a doctor can:
- Call Info‑Santé/Info‑Social at 811 (24/7 nurse line)
- Visit your local CLSC without an appointment for basic care, vaccinations, and mental health support
In Ontario and elsewhere, nurse lines (e.g., Ontario Telehealth 811) and community health services offer similar support.
3. Eyes & Teeth: Using Public & Private Clinics
- Dental care: varies by province. In Québec, the public RAMQ system covers certain dental surgeries for children under 10, but routine checkups and cleanings usually require private dental care. Most general dental clinics accept children starting around age 3. For younger toddlers and babies, we went to a pediatric dentist, which felt more appropriate and reassuring. In contrast, some provinces like Ontario offer free basic dental services for children—check your provincial health website for details.
- Vision tests: In many provinces, including Québec, eye exams are covered for children under 18 through public health insurance. Just remember to bring your RAMQ card or provincial health card to the appointment. In Québec, there’s also a RAMQ reimbursement program that helps cover the cost of glasses or contact lenses for children. You can usually get vision tests done at a nearby optometrist or even at a local eyewear store with an in-house optometrist. We had our kids’ eyes checked this way, and it was a smooth and convenient experience.
4. Emergency Room Procedures & Wait Times
For emergencies, always dial 911 first. Québec offers a real-time ER-wait dashboard. Average non-urgent wait is 4–8 hours, often peaking at 5+ hours quebec.ca. Ontario’s public health sites provide similar ER occupancy info; check local hospital or provincial health unit websites.
✅ Final Takeaways:
- RAMQ: Apply ASAP after arrival—aim for coverage by month three.
- Health access: Use 811 for advice or minor issues and CLSC/FM G if no doctor yet.
- Specialist care: Eyes and teeth are generally private—check-dependent.
- Emergencies: Use 911, and check hospital wait times online before heading out.
🔗 Useful Links:
After all the paperwork and health appointments, you might need a little break! Discover 5 fun and kid-friendly places to visit in Montreal’s South Shore to relax and recharge as a family.
🧭 Final Thoughts: The Good, the Bad, and What to Expect
In Québec and across Canada, the healthcare system is publicly funded, meaning doctor visits and hospital care are covered by taxes. That’s a big relief—especially for families with young kids. However, as an immigrant mom from South Korea, I was honestly surprised by how slow and less specialized it can feel.
Back home, walking straight into an ophthalmologist, dermatologist, or pediatric specialist is easy. Regular health screenings often start at a younger age, and appointments are fast. In Canada, though, everything goes through a family doctor first, and finding one can take months.
Also, while care is technically “free,” many services like dental, eye care, or private therapy aren’t covered unless you have extra insurance. And ER visits? You might wait hours unless it’s a life-threatening situation.
That said, there’s peace of mind knowing that if something serious does happen, you’re covered. You just need a bit more patience, planning, and flexibility than what we’re used to in Korea or other countries with a private-based model.
So if you’re a newcomer like me, don’t worry—you’re not alone in feeling overwhelmed. It does get easier. And I hope this guide makes your family’s health journey in Québec (or anywhere in Canada) just a little bit smoother. 💛
