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Health in Canada

Canada has a publicly funded healthcare system, with each province responsible for providing health services to its residents. Nova Scotia’s healthcare services are funded by taxes and managed by the Nova Scotia Department of Health and Wellness.

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Key Points:

  • Health Canada oversees national health policies and public health laws to ensure safe food, immunizations, and control of contagious diseases.

  • The Public Health Agency of Canada helps protect and improve the health of Canadians.

Nova Scotia’s Health Insurance Program (MSI)

Nova Scotia residents are covered under the Medical Services Insurance (MSI) program, which pays for necessary medical and emergency services.​​

Eligibility for MSI:

  • To be eligible for MSI, you must be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or an individual with a valid work permit in Nova Scotia.

  • You need to live in Nova Scotia for at least 183 days each year to maintain your eligibility.

  • Residents must update MSI if there are changes in status, such as moving to another province, changes in marital status, or changes of address.

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How to Get an MSI Card:

  1. Application Process:

    • You can apply for an MSI card by filling out the application form on the Nova Scotia Health website. You should submit documents verifying your identity, residency, and eligibility status, such as a passport, immigration documents, or proof of address.

  2. Submit Your Application:

    • Once the form is completed, submit it along with copies of your supporting documents to the MSI office either in person or by mail.

  3. Receive Your Card:

    • After processing, you will receive your MSI card by mail, which you should keep with you at all times.

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Renewing and Updating Your MSI Card:

  • Health cards expire every four years. You’ll receive a reminder three months before expiration. Renewal is free, and the new card will be mailed to you upon completion.

Having your MSI card ensures you can access Nova Scotia’s healthcare services and serves as a form of identification in the province. For further assistance or questions about your eligibility, contact the MSI office at 902-496-7008 or toll-free at 1-800-563-8880.

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Renewing Your Card:

  • Renewal reminders are sent three months before expiry, and there is no fee to renew your MSI card.

Coverage Within and Outside Canada:

  • MSI covers up to six months of medical services in other Canadian provinces.

  • If travelling outside Canada, MSI covers only emergency services. Additional travel insurance is recommended.

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What MSI Covers and Does Not Cover:

Covered by MSI:

  • Necessary doctor visits and physical exams

  • Surgeries, pregnancy services, and emergency health services

  • Some specialist services and hospital stays

  • Limited dental care for children under 14, and basic vision tests for young children and seniors

Not Covered by MSI:

  • Most dental services, over-the-counter medications, and alternative treatments like acupuncture or naturopathy

  • Private hospital rooms, IVF, and non-essential surgeries

Private Medical Insurance

Private health insurance can help cover services not included in MSI, such as dental care, prescription drugs, and vision care. Many employers offer insurance plans, or you can purchase plans from providers like Medavie Blue Cross or Sun Life.

Pharmacare Program and Family Doctor

For those without private insurance or who have high medication costs, the Nova Scotia Family Pharmacare Program helps cover prescription medications. Eligibility depends on income and family size.​

Enrollment Requirements:

  • A valid health card is needed for registration, and families must reapply annually.

If you have questions regarding the Pharmacare Programs, such as eligibility, enrolment, premiums, copayments, or benefits, please call 1-800-544-6191.

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In Nova Scotia, there is a shortage of family doctors, but options are available to ensure you can access medical care:

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Finding a Family Doctor:

You can register on the Need a Family Practice Registry to be placed on the waitlist.
 

Call 811 to speak to someone if:

  • You prefer to register by phone rather than online

  • You are new to Nova Scotia and do not have a Nova Scotia Health Card

811 Staff are available Monday through Friday, between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m.

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Virtual Health Services:

  • Virtual Care NS allows residents on the waitlist to consult doctors online.

  • Maple is another virtual care option that does not require a referral, but fees apply.

Immunizations and Vaccinations

Immunizations are free in Canada and required for children to attend school. Talk to a family doctor about required vaccines for you or your children. Seasonal flu shots are also offered for free, while travel-related vaccines may require an appointment at a travel clinic.

Hospitals and Emergency Services

Halifax has several hospitals, including IWK Health Centre, which specializes in care for women, youth, and families in the Maritime provinces.
 

Emergencies:

  • For urgent issues, call 911 or visit the nearest emergency room.

  • Examples of emergencies include severe chest pain, uncontrollable bleeding, or severe allergic reactions.

Walk-In Clinics and Pharmacies

For non-urgent health concerns, walk-in clinics are a great option when you don’t yet have a family doctor or need quick medical advice. Walk-in clinics are available for non-emergency issues but may require an appointment. Skip the Waiting Room is a helpful app to book appointments with walk-in clinics in your area.

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Newcomers’ Walk-In Clinic at Mumford:

This clinic provides accessible healthcare services tailored to the needs of newcomers to Canada.

  • Location: Situated in the Mumford Professional Centre.

  • Services: This clinic is dedicated to helping newcomers with health assessments, prescriptions, referrals, and other medical services that can support you as you settle into life in Nova Scotia.

  • Hours: Walk-in clinics may have variable hours, so it’s best to check for current timings or call ahead for availability.
     

Pharmacies:

  • Pharmacies like Lawtons and Shoppers Drug Mart can fill prescriptions and provide over-the-counter medications for minor ailments.

  • Pharmacies also allow you to refill prescriptions over the phone or online.

Mental Health and Wellness Resources

Mental health is an essential part of well-being, and several services in Halifax offer support for issues like anxiety, depression, and addiction.

Support Options:

  • For emergencies, call 911 or the Mobile Crisis Team at 902-429-8167.

  • The Community Wellness Coordinator at ISANS provides additional support for newcomers.

Staying Healthy in Halifax

Taking care of your health includes following Canada’s Food Guide and engaging in regular physical activity. The Community Health Teams in Halifax offer wellness programs and navigation services to help you maintain a healthy lifestyle. Programs cover topics like nutrition, physical activity, and emotional wellness.

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Personal Hygiene Tips:

  • Regularly shower, wear clean clothes, and use deodorant.

  • Brush and floss your teeth daily, and wash your hands often.

  • For more details or registration for wellness programs, contact the Community Health Teams at 902-460-4560.

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