Healthcare in Saskatchewan
Healthcare System in Saskatchewan
Table of Contents
Introduction
Canada is one of the countries that provides universal healthcare for all its citizens and residents.
In the province of Saskatchewan, citizens, permanent residents, and holders of work or study permits are covered under the public healthcare system — but it’s very important for newcomers to understand the details.
Healthcare Services Covered
By registering in Saskatchewan’s healthcare system, you can access the following services free of charge:
| Service | Details |
|---|---|
|
Family Doctor Visits |
Visits to a general practitioner (family doctor) are free. |
|
Emergency Care |
Emergency department services at hospitals are covered. |
|
Hospitalization |
Inpatient care and hospital stays are covered.
|
|
Certain Specialized Treatments |
Some necessary surgeries and specialized care are also covered. |
You do not need to make direct payments for these services; the provincial healthcare system pays the costs.
Note: In Canada all initial visits are to your family doctor, and any referral to specialists must be made by them.
Services Not Covered by Public Healthcare
Some services are not included in Saskatoon’s public healthcare system and require private or supplemental insurance:
| Non-Covered Services | Details |
|---|---|
|
Dental Services |
Routine dental care is generally not covered (except in specific cases for children or if you are covered by Canadian Dental Care Plan – CDCP). |
|
Vision Care and Glasses |
Eye exams and purchasing glasses are usually not covered.
|
|
Prescription Medications |
Medications bought from pharmacies are not covered except in special cases (private drug insurance is recommended). |
|
Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation |
Some specialized therapies require private insurance or out-of-pocket payments.
|
It is common to receive employer-sponsored plans to cover these additional services, if you are employed at a larger firm.
How to Register with Saskatchewan’s Healthcare System
Steps to Register with Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA):
- Complete the Registration Form
- Fill out the application for the Health Card.
- You can download the form from the Saskatchewan eHealth website or pick it up in person.
- Provide Required Documents
- Valid passport
- Immigration document (CoPR, Study Permit, or Work Permit)
- Proof of residence in Saskatoon (e.g., rental agreement or utility bill)
- Submit the Documents
- You can submit documents online, in person, or by mail.
- Receive Your Health Card
- After the documents are verified, your Health Card will be issued and mailed to you.
- It usually takes a few weeks after registration to receive the card.
Always carry your Health Card with you when visiting a doctor, clinic, or hospital.
Important Note on Healthcare Coverage Start Date
- In Saskatchewan, healthcare coverage typically starts from your arrival date in the province or the date your immigration status is confirmed.
- If you have not yet received your Health Card, you must pay for any medical services yourself initially and then request reimbursement once your card arrives.
Conclusion
Registering for public healthcare in Saskatchewan is essential for accessing free medical services.
Understanding which services are covered and arranging supplemental insurance for dental, vision, and medications will help you use the healthcare system more effectively.
There are support programs available later for low-income individuals or seniors to assist with medication costs.
Disclaimer
The information provided in these resources is intended for informational purposes only, and its accuracy is not guaranteed. The Saskatoon Iranian Cultural Association accepts no responsibility for the accuracy of the content or any consequences resulting from the use of the provided information.
These resources are the property of the Saskatoon Iranian Cultural Association and may be freely referenced, provided that a link to the corresponding page on the Association’s website is included.
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