Can I make an appointment with a doctor without a medical card?

In Calgary, you can receive medical care without an AHCIP (Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan) card, but the conditions depend on your status and the type of services. Here are all the options for different situations.

1. For newcomers who have not yet received an AHCIP

Temporary solutions:

  • Paid clinics: Most walk-in clinics accept patients without insurance but charge a fee:
  • Example cost: $45–120 CAD per consultation (Calgary West Medical Centre, Temple Medical Clinic).
  • What is included: Diagnosis, prescriptions, basic procedures.
  • Refunds: If you have applied for AHCIP and are waiting for your card, keep your receipts. Some of the costs may be reimbursed once you receive your PHN (Personal Health Number).

2. For refugees, evacuees, and low-income individuals

Free or subsidized services:

  • The Alex Community Health Centre: Provides free services to the uninsured, including treatment, dentistry, and mental health support.
  • Address: 2840 2 Ave SE.
  • Eligibility: Proof of low income or refugee status is sufficient.
  • Ukrainian Emergency Health Benefits Program (UETHBP):

Temporary coverage for treatment, including emergencies, vaccinations, and prescriptions. To register, you must provide documentation of evacuation from Ukraine after February 24, 2022.

3. Emergencies

  • Urgent Care and Emergency Rooms: By law, hospitals are required to provide assistance in life-threatening situations (heart attack, stroke, severe injuries) even without insurance.
  • Addresses:
  • South Health Campus: 4448 Front St SE.
  • Peter Lougheed Centre: 3500 26 Ave NE.
  • Note: You may receive a bill after treatment. You can appeal or arrange a payment plan.

4. Options for temporary residents (visitors, students)

  • Private insurance: Purchase travel or student medical insurance (e.g., through Sun Life or Manulife).
  • Cost: Starting at $50 CAD/month.
  • University clinics: University of Calgary students can contact Student Wellness Services for discounts.

5. How to register without AHCIP?

  1. Find a clinic that accepts uninsured patients:
  • Medi Plus Clinics (Green Plaza): Fees $60–150 CAD.
  • Mosaic Primary Care Network: Sliding scale fees for low-income patients.

  1. Call ahead: Check the cost and list of services. For example, blood tests may cost an additional $20–100 CAD.

  2. Prepare your documents:

  • Passport or ID.
  • Proof of address (utility bill, rental agreement).

6. How to obtain AHCIP?

If you are an Alberta resident, apply on the official website:

  1. Fill out the form.
  2. Attach copies of the following documents:
  • Proof of residency (e.g., rental agreement). - Proof of authorization to stay in Canada (visa, work permit).
  1. Send by mail or take to a Registry Agent.
  2. Wait 2–3 weeks for your card.

Conclusion

Without a health card in Calgary, you can go to private clinics, social programs, or emergency rooms. To save money, choose community centers (The Alex) or clinics with sliding fees. Remember: even without AHCIP, your health is a priority!