FAQs: Medicine
How to make an appointment with a doctor in Calgary
Making an appointment with a doctor in Calgary: how to find a family doctor who accepts new patients, register for AHCIP, what documents are required, where to find clinics and medical centers for newcomers. Step-by-step instructions
Medical insurance for new arrivals
AHCIP is Alberta's basic health insurance program for newcomers. It covers basic services such as doctor visits, hospitalization, and emergency care. To register, you will need documents proving your residency status, address, and personal identification. Additional support programs are available for refugees, students, and temporary residents
Mental health
Calgary has a wide range of mental health support services available, including crisis lines, free counseling, family and youth programs, and psychological assistance for refugees and newcomers. Many organizations offer support in Ukrainian and other languages. Services include individual, group, and online sessions for children, teens, and adults.
Public and private healthcare
This section contains useful information about the healthcare system in Canada, particularly in Alberta. You will learn how public healthcare works, what services are covered by Alberta Health Care, how to find a family doctor, and what private healthcare services are available to Ukrainians. Here you will find tips on how to make an appointment with a doctor, what to do in an emergency, and how to take advantage of additional insurance programs.
Other practical questions
This section contains practical answers to other common questions about healthcare in Calgary: how to find a doctor, register for a health card, book tests, get prescriptions, visit pharmacies, get a walk-in appointment, and how to use the healthcare system as a newcomer. This information will help you navigate everyday medical situations.
Pharmacies and over-the-counter medicines
Find the nearest pharmacies in Calgary and find out which over-the-counter medications are available without a prescription. Useful information for everyday needs and first aid.
How to get help in an emergency
In Canada, in case of an emergency, call 911 — the single number for emergency medical services, police, or fire department. For medical issues that do not require immediate attention, call Health Link 811 — a nurse will advise you, help assess the situation, and recommend where to go. In urgent but non-life-threatening situations, use the Urgent Care Centre in your city. It is important to act quickly and know your local support services so you can get help in time
Pediatric medicine
Pediatric care in Calgary covers a full range of services for children from birth to age 18. The system includes preventive checkups, vaccinations, treatment of acute and chronic illnesses, specialized care, and emergency services. Parents can consult family doctors, pediatricians, walk-in clinics, children's hospitals, and emergency centers. Consultations in Ukrainian are available through an interpreter. For non-emergencies, call 8-1-1 (medical advice) or 2-1-1 (social support)
Dentistry
Dentistry in Calgary — find family and pediatric dentists, clinics for preventive care, treatment, braces, whitening, and emergency care. Services available with direct insurance and support for children through the Alberta Child Health Benefit.
Vaccination
Vaccination in Calgary is a free service for children and adults, covering mandatory vaccinations, seasonal flu vaccinations, COVID-19, and additional vaccines for travelers. Parents can register their children for vaccinations through their family doctor, Alberta Health Services community health centres, or school programs. Vaccinations help protect health and prevent the spread of serious infections.
Want accurate and up-to-date information about healthcare in Calgary? In the “Health & Medicine” section, you will find useful tips, practical instructions, and answers to many questions related to health, access to doctors, and medical services in Canada.
In this section, we cover the following topics:
🩺 Finding a family doctor (General Practitioner) — how to register, how long to wait, what to do if your doctor changes, etc.
🏥 Clinics and Hospitals — a list of medical facilities in Calgary: what they offer, how to make an appointment, how the healthcare system works in the province of Alberta.
💊 Pharmacies and Prescription Drugs — how to buy medicine in Canada, what you need to know about prescriptions, insurance, and drug prices.
🩹 Emergency Services — where to go in case of an emergency, how ambulances, 911 services, and emergency rooms work.
📋 Health Insurance (how the system works in Canada and Alberta) — what it covers, how to get it, when the insurance starts.
👩⚕️ Specialized care / specialists — how to make an appointment with a specialist (dermatologist, orthopedist, psychologist, etc.), what are the requirements, waiting lists, what immigrants should consider.
🛡 Prevention and healthy lifestyle — vaccination programs, screenings, advice on healthy eating, sports, and mental health.
🌐 Additional resources and support services — phone numbers, websites, information services, community organizations that help newcomers get medical care.
This information base is designed for those who are looking for reliable answers to complex questions about healthcare in Calgary. With our materials, you will be able to navigate the healthcare system, find the right doctor, understand insurance, and get help in a timely manner.