What documents are required to register with a family doctor?

To become a patient of a family doctor in Calgary, you need to collect several documents. The system in Canada is clearly organized: first, you register for a provincial health card, then you find a doctor, and then you come to the appointment with all your documents. I will break it down step by step.

Register for Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP)

The first step is to register with AHCIP. This is your basic health insurance in Alberta.

What you need to submit:

  • Proof that you live in Alberta:

  • Alberta driver's license;

  • utility bill or rental agreement;

  • bank statement with your address.

  • Proof of identity:

  • Canadian passport or PR card (permanent resident);

  • for children — birth certificate.

  • Proof of status in Canada:

  • work permit, study permit, or other documents that give you the right to stay in the country.

How to apply:

  • Either fill out the online form on the AHCIP website,
  • Or submit your documents in person through a Registry Agent.

Usually, within 3–5 days after submission, you will receive a card with your personal health number (PHN).

Looking for a family doctor who accepts new patients

There are many family doctors in Calgary, but not all of them accept new patients. Here's where to look:

  • Alberta Find a Doctor — convenient to filter by area, language, and specialization.
  • CPSA Physician Search — official database of doctors.
  • You can ask friends for recommendations or call Health Link Alberta — just dial 811.

Examples of clinics:

  • Westside Medical — online form on the website.
  • Downtown Medical Clinic — photos of documents are required.
  • Caleo Health — fill out a short questionnaire before your first appointment.

What to bring to your first appointment

Personal documents:

  • Passport, driver's license, or PR card.
  • AHCIP card.
  • Contact information: your address, phone number, email.

Medical information:

  • List of medications you are taking, with dosages.
  • Information about allergies.
  • All diagnoses, test results, and medical records (if available).
  • Information about family medical conditions (e.g., diabetes or heart disease in parents).

Additional information:

  • The clinic's questionnaire (often given to fill out before the visit).
  • If necessary, a health certificate (for work or study).

Special considerations for different groups

For children:

  • Birth certificate.
  • Vaccination card.
  • Parental consent (if required).

For newcomers or refugees:

  • Translated medical documents (into English or French).
  • If necessary, certificates from social services.

For people with chronic illnesses:

  • Treatment plan from your previous doctor.
  • Special documents (if you are already undergoing treatment, for example, for cancer).

What if you don't have something?

  • There are clinics that accept patients even without AHCIP — for example, The Alex Community Health Centre.
  • Ukrainian refugees can obtain a temporary medical number through Alberta Health Services.
  • In case of a life-threatening situation, you must be accepted in any case, even without documents.

Useful tips

  • If you change your address or status, be sure to update your information with AHCIP (within 30 days).
  • Always have electronic copies of your documents — preferably in the cloud.
  • Download the MyAHS Connect portal — it's convenient for viewing test results and making appointments online.

Remember: each clinic may have its own nuances regarding documents, so it is better to call ahead or check on the website.