Capital city in Ontario, Canada
Healthcare in Ottawa: hospitals, costs and insurance
Healthcare in Ottawa
Quality public hospitals, but non-residents pay full fees and ER waits are long. Walk-in clinics are cheaper for minor problems.
Hospitals for foreigners in Ottawa
| Hospital | Good to know |
|---|---|
| The Ottawa Hospital – Civic Campus | Major trauma centre |
| The Ottawa Hospital – General Campus | Large emergency department |
Key facts
- Doctor's visit: C$150–280 ($105–197) at a private clinic without insurance.
- In Canada: High-quality public care, but visitors pay full non-resident rates and hospital stays can cost thousands per day. ER waits are long. Travel insurance is essential.
- Pharmacies: Shoppers Drug Mart, Jean Coutu and London Drugs are common; in most provinces pharmacists can treat minor ailments.
- Health spending: US$6,378 per person a year (2024); 2.8 doctors per 1,000 people (2023), World Bank.
- Emergency: Police 911 · Ambulance 911 · Fire 911 · All emergencies 911.
Travel and health insurance
Travel insurance isn't required to enter Canada, but treatment for visitors is paid upfront.
| Insurer | Good for |
|---|---|
| SafetyWing Nomad Insurance | Monthly subscription for nomads and long trips; cancel anytime. |
| Genki | Health insurance for nomads, from a European insurer. |
| World Nomads | Trip insurance that covers many adventure activities. |
| Heymondo | Single-trip, annual and long-stay plans with a medical app. |
| IMG Global | Travel medical and long-term international health plans. |
Quick answers
What is the best hospital in Ottawa for foreigners?
The Ottawa Hospital – Civic Campus: Major trauma centre
How much does a doctor's visit cost in Ottawa?
About C$150–280 ($105–197) at a private clinic.
Do I need travel insurance for Canada?
It isn't required for entry, but recommended: hospitals in Canada expect visitors to pay or show insurance.
More about Ottawa
Going to Ottawa solo?
SoloSquare is where travelers, nomads and locals in Ottawa meet up for small plans: coffee, dinners, walks and day trips. Join one, or start your own in a minute.
Sources
- World Bank: health expenditure per capita
- CDC Travelers' Health: Canada
- OC Transpo
- Ottawa Airport
- NCC
- The Ottawa Hospital
SoloSquare has no commercial relationship with the insurers listed. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.