Although Quebec has an extremely distinct cultural identity within Canada, its health care system is remarkably similar to those found in other provinces. Once you get acquainted, it won’t be difficult to find the right type of healthcare for you and your family in the province of Quebec. Let’s take a look!
Administration
Healthcare in Quebec is administered by the Ministère de la Santé et Services sociaux (Ministry of Health and Social Services, www.msss.gouv.qc.ca/en). The ministry’s responsibilities include overseeing and funding Quebec’s health programs and medical services. Furthermore, there are eighteen regional health authorities in Quebec whose responsibility it is to coordinate and implement health and social services in their local regions.
The Quebec Health Insurance Plan (Régie de l’assurance-maladie du Québec)
The Quebec Health Insurance Plan, also known as the Régie de l’assurance-maladie du Québec (RAMQ), allows those who are covered to receive medical services free of charge within the province of Quebec. In addition to medical services, the RAMQ covers a range of other services designed to meet special needs. To be eligible, you must be a Canadian citizen or landed immigrant and must not be absent from Quebec for more than 183 days out of any calendar year, and obtain a valid Health Insurance Card.
Did you know? The RAMQ provides you with coverage outside of Quebec! However, your reimbursement for any given medical service will be equivalent for the same rate that the RAMQ pays in Quebec. This means that if a doctor charges you more in another province, you’ll be responsible for the difference. Out of Canada, the RAMQ will only cover emergency services, and only to the amount that it would pay for the same services in Quebec, which can lead to large foreign medical bills. When travelling abroad, keep medical travel insurance in mind!
The Public Prescription Drug Insurance Plan
The Public Prescription Drug Insurance Plan is an insurance plan offered by the Quebec government that provides basic prescription drug coverage. Take note that this plan will only cover drugs that appear on its list. To learn more about the Public Prescription Drug Insurance Plan, visit the official website.
Seniors in Quebec are covered for their prescription drug costs under the RAMQ’s Prescription Drug Insurance. If you’re under 65 and on employment assistance, or do not have access to a private drug plan, you may also be entitled for coverage.
Info Santé: Your 24/7 Health Hotline
Info Santé is a nurse telephone advice and health information service available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. To access Telehealth, dial toll-free 811 within Quebec, or visit www.msss.gouv.qc.ca/en/sujets/organisation/info-sante-811.php.
Other Services
Beyond the basics, Quebec also offers various other healthcare services and assistance plans. These include services like palliative care, mental health care, eldercare and disability support, and more.
In addition to healthcare practitioners or the Ministry of Health, Novus is an excellent resource for you to access a comprehensive database of healthcare options available in Quebec. We wish you the best of health!
For more insight, check out these health articles.
