Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada
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Medical Assistance

Many Canadians fall ill and require medical assistance while travelling outside Canada. If you require medical attention while you are abroad, contact the nearest Canadian government office abroad or the Emergency Operations Centre. This section offers advice should you encounter medical emergencies while you are abroad.

ON THIS PAGE
How Can Canadian Officials Help?
Provincial Health Insurance Plans
FAQs on Medical Matters

How Can Canadian Officials Help?

In the event of a medical emergency, Canadian officials at the nearest Canadian government office abroad can provide the following services:

  • Provide names of medical personnel and medical facilities. Note: some Canadian embassy and consulate Web sites also provide lists of suggested medical providers.
  • Visit in-patients and provide translation services if required.
  • Provide reports to family members back home.
  • Assist in arranging for evacuation to Canada or to a third country if that is considered medically necessary, including a professional medical escort. Please note, however, that medical evacuation can be extremely costly (possibly in excess of $50,000) and that it is your responsibility to ensure that you have the appropriate health insurance to cover the costs.
  • Help with medical insurance issues.
  • Assist in obtaining financial help from family and friends if required.
  • Make alternative travel arrangements, including obtaining visas and other necessary travel documents.
Provincial Health Insurance Plans

Provincial and territorial health authorities can assist if you have questions or concerns about your provincial and territorial health plan.

Alberta
British Columbia
Manitoba
New Brunswick
Newfoundland and Labrador
Northwest Territories
Nova Scotia
Nunavut
Ontario
Prince Edward Island
Quebec
Saskatchewan
Yukon