Health Care

The NL Newcomer Hub provides essential guidance to help newcomers access quality health care services in Newfoundland and Labrador. Whether you need public health coverage, private insurance, or pharmacy services, we offer resources to help you and your family stay healthy.

Medical Care Plan (MCP)

MCP is a publicly administered comprehensive plan of public medical care insurance which was introduced on April 1, 1969. MCP covers the costs of insured physician services for residents of the province who have met eligibility criteria to register as MCP beneficiaries. 

The Medical Care Plan (MCP) is Newfoundland and Labrador’s publicly funded health insurance program. It covers medically necessary services provided by physicians, including visits to doctors’ offices, hospitals, or patients’ residences, as well as surgical, diagnostic, and therapeutic procedures. To be eligible, individuals must be residents of the province and lawfully entitled to remain in Canada. MCP does not cover services such as dental care, vision care, or prescription drugs.

Private Insurance

This guide helps newcomers, including international students, choose the best health insurance plan in Newfoundland and Labrador (NL) based on their lifestyle, status, and healthcare needs.

PolicyMe

While MCP provides coverage for essential medical services, it doesn’t cover everything. Private health insurance plans, like those offered by PolicyMe, can supplement MCP by covering additional services such as dental care, vision care, prescription drugs, and paramedical services. These plans can be purchased individually or may be provided through employer benefits packages.

Blue Cross

Blue Cross offers personal health insurance plans that complement provincial health coverage. Their plans can include benefits for prescriptions, dental, vision, massage therapy, and more. Blue Cross is a not-for-profit organization that provides health, dental, travel, life, and disability benefits to individuals and organizations across Canada.

Mental Health and Addictions Support

Canadian Mental Health Association 

The Newfoundland and Labrador branch of the Canadian Mental Health Association helps individuals access the supports they need to strengthen their mental well-being, foster resilience, recover from mental illness, and participate fully in community life.

Canadian Mental Health Association Contact information:
603 Topsail Road
St. John’s, NL A1E 2E1
(709) 753-8550

Health Line Contact Info
811 Health Line: 1-888-709-2929

Mental Health and Addictions 

Eastern Health provides support and resources for mental health and addiction. 

Doorways offers quick and convenient access to mental health and addictions counselling through single-session services, without the need for a referral. Counselling is currently available in person, by phone, or through video. For contact details and operating hours at locations throughout the region, please refer to the relevant section.

Naloxone is a fast-acting medication that can temporarily reverse the effects of an opioid overdose, including those caused by fentanyl. If you suspect someone is experiencing an overdose, call 911 immediately. Free take-home naloxone kits are available throughout the province. Visit this section to learn more about the program and where to obtain a kit.

The provincial mental health and addictions systems navigator can help you find the services you need, explain your options, and connect you with the right programs in your community or through the health system. Please call 709-752-3916 or toll-free at 1-877-999-7589

Bridge the Gapp

Bridge the gapp is a free, online mental health and addictions resource developed by the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador. It connects residents of all ages to self-help tools, online programs, and a comprehensive directory of local services. Available on computer, tablet, or phone, the platform helps bridge the gap between individuals and timely mental wellness support in the comfort of their own homes. The site offers resources for adults and youth, and includes features like the “Messages of Hope” initiative, which sends encouraging messages to support people on their mental health journey

Doctor and Emergency Services

Eastern Health Emergency Services

In case of a medical emergency, residents should call 911 or visit the nearest emergency department. For non-emergency health advice, the Newfoundland and Labrador Health Line (811) is available 24/7, providing access to registered nurses who can offer guidance on health concerns.

Virtual Emergency Care

Virtual Emergency Care services connect patients in select Newfoundland and Labrador communities with remote emergency care doctors. This service allows patients to receive timely medical assessments and care through virtual consultations, enhancing access to emergency services, especially in rural areas.

NL Health Services

NL Health Services is the integrated health authority responsible for delivering healthcare services across Newfoundland and Labrador. It encompasses various facilities and programs, ensuring residents have access to comprehensive medical care throughout the province.

Pharmacy

Your complete guide to prescription services, drug coverage, and local pharmacies. Access free MCP-covered care, compare insurance options, and find locations province-wide. 

Pharmacy Health Care Services

Pharmacists in Newfoundland and Labrador have expanded roles in healthcare delivery. They can assess and prescribe for common ailments, extend prescriptions, and administer vaccinations. These services are available to all residents with an active MCP card, enhancing access to timely care for minor health issues.

Pharmacists’ Association of Newfoundland and Labrador (PANL)

PANL provides information on the range of services offered by pharmacists, including medication reviews, prescribing for and administering vaccinations, and other injectables like birth control and B12. Pharmacists play a crucial role in the healthcare system, working collaboratively with other healthcare professionals to ensure optimal patient care.

Other 

Interim Federal Health (IFH) Program for refugees

Provides supplemental health coverage to refugees in Canada during the sponsorship period 

The IFHP provides basic coverage (for example, doctor visits and hospital care) for a maximum of three months. “In Canada, the IFHP provides limited, temporary coverage of health-care benefits to people in the following groups who aren’t eligible for provincial or territorial health insurance: resettled refugees, refugee claimants, in-Canada protected persons, and certain other groups”

Provincial Health & Community Services

The Department of Health and Community Services plays a leading role in shaping health and community services programs and policies across the province. This work is carried out in collaboration with key partners, including regional health authorities, community organizations, professional associations, post-secondary institutions, unions, consumers, and other government departments.

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