Accessing Health Services
As a newcomer to Saskatchewan, you have access to a publicly funded health care system which provides medical care without a direct cost to you. If you are currently receiving treatment for a specific illness, it is a good idea to bring copies of your medical records and an English translation of them if needed. This will help your doctor understand your health problem better.
Saskatchewan Health Services Card and Health Coverage
A Saskatchewan Health Services Card (Health Card) is a personal identification card you present for health services. Applying for a Health Card is the first step to getting provincial medical coverage.
Continuous Health Coverage
The Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP) nominees can ask the Immigration Services Branch for support to continue their provincial health coverage. To receive support, you must:
- Be living and working in Saskatchewan;
- Be nominated by the SINP;
- Have applied to IRCC for Permanent Residence; and
- Have applied to IRCC to extend their work permits.
To apply for the support, please complete the Request for Continued Saskatchewan Health Coverage Form. The form contains detailed instructions and a checklist for required documents.
Extended Health Benefits
Saskatchewan's medical system covers the cost for basic medical care. Residents can also choose to purchase private health insurance plans that would provide even more extended health benefits. Many employers also offer private health plans for their employees. The employee fee is deducted from their pay.
Getting Medical Help
Learn about your rights and responsibilities related to health care, what to do in an emergency and how to find a doctor or other medical services in Saskatchewan.
Your Rights and Responsibilities
In Saskatchewan, you have both rights and responsibilities and take an active part in your own health care.
You have the right to:
- Choose your own doctor (or other healthcare provider);
- Ask questions about your health or the advice you are getting, and agree to;
- Refuse medical treatment;
- Ask for a second medical opinion about your health problem;
- See your medical information or obtain copies of any of your records; and
- There may be a fee for copies of your file records.
- Have your personal and medical information kept private and confidential.
It is your responsibility to give health care providers information about your medical condition.
Emergency Services
Saskatchewan provides assistance for emergency services – life-threatening situations. Throughout the province, you can call 911 on the telephone to talk to an operator who is trained to get you the right kind of emergency service. Learn about emergency services here.
Learn all about health care in Saskatchewan in our Health section.