Moving to Montreal for school is exciting, but figuring out how to access healthcare can be overwhelming, especially if you're an international student or new to Quebec’s system. Understanding your options for medical care, insurance, and emergency services is crucial for staying healthy during your studies. This guide will walk you through everything you need to navigate healthcare in Montreal as a student.

Understanding Quebec’s Healthcare System

Quebec has a publicly funded healthcare system, which means that most medical services are free for those covered by the Régie de l’assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ). However, your residency status as a student depends on your eligibility for RAMQ.

Who Is Eligible for RAMQ?

• Quebec Residents & Canadian Students: If you are a permanent resident of Quebec or from another Canadian province, you may be covered under RAMQ or your home province’s health insurance.
• International Students: Some international students qualify for RAMQ if their country has a reciprocal agreement with Quebec (e.g., France, Belgium, Denmark). Otherwise, you will need private health insurance.
• How to Apply: If eligible, apply online at RAMQ's website and submit the required documents. Processing times can take a few weeks, so apply soon.

What Does RAMQ Cover?

• Doctor visits and hospital care
• Emergency medical treatment
• Some prescription drugs (for those under 25 or on financial assistance)

However, RAMQ does not cover dental, vision, or most prescription medications. You may need additional insurance for these services.

Private Health Insurance for Students

If you are not eligible for RAMQ, your school will likely offer a private health insurance plan. For example:

• McGill students: Covered by Blue Cross unless exempted from RAMQ.
• Concordia students: Covered under the Studentcare health plan.
• UQAM and other institutions: Check with your school for details.

These private plans typically cover doctor visits, hospitalization, and medication costs. However, always read the policy carefully to understand what is covered.

University Health Services

Many Montreal universities offer on-campus healthcare services, which can be the easiest and fastest way for students to see a doctor.

Where Can You Go?

• McGill Wellness Hub (Website) – Medical and mental health services available for McGill students.
• Concordia Health Services (Website) – General medical care, vaccinations, and counselling.
• UQAM Clinique Universitaire – Walk-in and scheduled medical services for students.

These clinics offer various services, from general check-ups to mental health counselling. Some require an appointment, while others may provide walk-in consultations.

Walk-in Clinics & Finding a Family Doctor

If you need medical care outside of university clinics, Montreal has several options:

Walk-in Clinics

Walk-in clinics are a good option for non-emergency medical issues. You don’t need an appointment, but wait times can be extended. You can find a nearby clinic using:

• Clic Santé – An online booking system for medical appointments.
• Bonjour Santé – A paid service to help you find same-day appointments.

How to Get a Family Doctor

Family doctors provide long-term healthcare, but getting one in Montreal can take time. You can register for a family doctor through Guichet d’accès à un médecin de famille (GAMF). There is a long waitlist, so in the meantime, you can use walk-in clinics or regular check-ups.

Emergency Healthcare Services

For life-threatening situations like severe injuries, difficulty breathing, or sudden chest pain, go directly to an emergency room (ER) or call 911. Major hospitals with 24/7 ER services include:

• Montreal General Hospital (McGill-affiliated)
• Jewish General Hospital
• CHUM (Centre hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal)

If it’s an urgent but non-life-threatening issue, a CLSC (public health clinic) may be a better choice, as hospital wait times can be extended. Find one near you on the Santé Montréal website.

Mental Health & Counselling Services

Mental health is just as important as physical health, and Montreal offers several student-friendly mental health services:

University Mental Health Services

• McGill’s Wellness Hub – Individual therapy, support groups, and crisis intervention.
• Concordia Counselling & Psychological Services – Short-term therapy for stress, anxiety, and academic pressures.
• UQAM Psychological Services – Affordable therapy options for students.

Free & Low-Cost Mental Health Resources

• Tel-Aide Montréal (Listening service, 24/7) – Call 514-935-1101
• Montreal Therapy Centre – Sliding scale fees for students.
• Auberge du Coeur – Support for students facing housing or personal crises.

Dental & Vision Care

RAMQ does not cover dental and vision care, but students can find affordable options:

• University Dental Clinics – McGill and Université de Montréal offer low-cost dental care.
• Studentcare Health Plan (for Concordia & McGill students) – Covers partial dental and vision costs.
• Public Dental Clinics (CLSCS) – Provide emergency dental care at reduced rates.

Affordable optometry clinics are available at Costco, New Look, or Greiche & Scaff for eye care.

Pharmacies & Prescription Medications

Montreal has several pharmacy chains, including Jean Coutu, Pharmaprix, and Uniprix. Prescriptions are partially covered bye RAMQ or private insurancd.

If you need medication regularly, check if it’s covered under Quebec’s Public Prescription Drug Insurance Plan (details here).

Tips for Staying Healthy as a Student

1. Use your university health services first – They are often the fastest and most affordable option.
2. Book appointments online – Clic Santé and Bonjour Santé can save you hours of waiting.
3. Register for a family doctor early – The waitlist is long, so sign up as soon as possible.
4. Stay active – Universities offer free or discounted gym memberships.
5. Know your insurance coverage – Understand what RAMQ or private insurance covers so you’re not caught off guard.

Final Thoughts

Navigating healthcare as a student in Montreal can initially seem complicated, but with the correct information, it’s manageable. Whether you have RAMQ or private insurance, knowing where to go for medical, mental health, dental, and vision care will help you stay healthy during your studies. Bookmark essential websites like Clic Santé, RAMQ, and your university’s health portal to prepare you when you need care.

If you ever feel unsure, don’t hesitate to ask your university’s student services for guidance—they’re there to help you through the process. Stay informed, take care of yourself, and enjoy your time in Montreal!