City in British Columbia, Canada
Healthcare in Vancouver: hospitals, costs and insurance
Healthcare in Vancouver
High-quality public hospitals, but visitors pay full non-resident prices and ER waits are long. Walk-in clinics handle minor issues; travel insurance is essential.
Hospitals for foreigners in Vancouver
| Hospital | Good to know |
|---|---|
| Vancouver General Hospital | Largest trauma centre in BC |
| St. Paul's Hospital | Newer Burrard site; downtown emergency |
Key facts
- Doctor's visit: C$150–300 ($105–211) 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 Vancouver for foreigners?
Vancouver General Hospital: Largest trauma centre in BC
How much does a doctor's visit cost in Vancouver?
About C$150–300 ($105–211) 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 Vancouver
Going to Vancouver solo?
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Sources
- World Bank: health expenditure per capita
- CDC Travelers' Health: Canada
- TransLink
- Vancouver Airport (YVR)
- Vancouver Coastal Health
- Mobi Bike Share
- City of Vancouver
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 Spotted something out of date?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.