Moving to Alberta comes with many questions — especially about healthcare. The good news? Alberta offers a strong, accessible health system, and most essential services are free once you are registered.
This guide breaks everything down step by step so newcomers, refugees, and families can get the care they need quickly and confidently.
1. What Is Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP)?
AHCIP is the provincial health insurance program that covers medically necessary services like:
- Doctor visits
- Hospital care
- Diagnostic tests (X-rays, ultrasounds, blood work)
- Emergency services
🔗 Official AHCIP Website:
https://www.alberta.ca/ahcip
2. Who Is Eligible for AHCIP?
You can apply if you:
✔ Live in Alberta for at least 183 days per year
✔ Have legal residency status (PR, refugee, protected person, work permit, study permit depending on conditions)
🔗 Eligibility Details:
https://www.alberta.ca/ahcip-eligibility
3. How to Apply for AHCIP
You can apply online or in-person at a registry office.
Documents you need:
- Proof of identity (passport, PR card, work permit, etc.)
- Proof of Alberta residency (rental agreement, bills, bank statement)
- Proof of legal status (IRCC documents)
📍 Apply Online:
https://www.alberta.ca/ahcip-register
📍 Find a Registry Office Near You:
https://www.alberta.ca/registry-agents
💡 Processing usually takes 2–6 weeks. Emergency medical care is still available even if your card hasn’t arrived.
4. Where to Get Medical Care in Alberta
A) Walk-In Clinics
Walk-in clinics provide non-emergency medical care without an appointment — ideal for:
- Fevers
- Minor injuries
- Prescriptions
- Sick notes
- Medical advice
🔗 Find a Walk-In Clinic:
https://www.albertafindadoctor.ca
B) Family Doctors
Alberta encourages residents to register with a “family doctor” who becomes your primary health provider.
🔗 Search for a Family Doctor Accepting New Patients:
https://www.albertafindadoctor.ca
C) Emergency Departments
For life-threatening situations:
- Chest pain
- Difficulty breathing
- Severe injuries
- Loss of consciousness
- Uncontrolled bleeding
📍 Hospital Locator:
https://www.albertahealthservices.ca
D) 811 Health Link
A 24/7 phone line where registered nurses answer your medical questions.
📞 Call: 811
✔ Free
✔ Available in multiple languages
✔ They can advise whether you need ER, a clinic, or home care
5. Free Mental Health Support in Alberta
Mental health care is essential — and many services are free.
AHS – Mental Health Resources
https://www.albertahealthservices.ca/amh/amh.aspx
Canadian Mental Health Association (Alberta)
Free counselling, workshops, and crisis support:
https://cmha.ca
Distress Line (24/7)
📞 780-482-4357 (HELP)
For anyone feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or in crisis.
6. Medication & Pharmacies
Pharmacies can help with:
- Prescription refills
- Vaccinations
- Minor illness assessments
- Medication reviews
🔗 Pharmacy Finder (Pharmasave):
https://pharmasave.com/find-a-store
🔗 Shoppers Drug Mart Pharmacy Directory:
https://www1.shoppersdrugmart.ca/en/store-locator
7. Health Services for Newcomer Families
A) Pregnancy & Newborn Care
Free supports for pregnant women and new mothers.
🔗 Healthy Parents, Healthy Children:
https://www.healthyparentshealthychildren.ca
B) Children’s Health Services
- Immunizations
- School health
- Speech therapy
- Developmental support
🔗 Alberta Children’s Health Services:
https://www.albertahealthservices.ca/csh/csh.aspx
8. Dental & Vision Care
Dental and vision services are not fully covered, but help is available.
Low-Cost Dental:
- University dental clinics
- Community dental programs
- Nonprofit clinics
🔗 Low-Cost Dental Resources (Edmonton):
https://edmonton.ca/programs_services/dental
Children’s Dental Benefit (Federal):
https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/childrens-dental-benefit.html
9. Community Health Centres in Edmonton
These clinics provide free or low-cost programs for newcomers.
Boyle McCauley Health Centre
- Medical
- Mental health
- Addiction support
https://www.bmhc.net
Multicultural Health Brokers Cooperative
- Community support
- Navigation
- Newcomer family assistance
https://mchb.org
10. Tips for Newcomers to Navigate Healthcare Smoothly
✔ Keep copies of your documents (ID, lease, IRCC papers).
✔ Register all family members for AHCIP immediately.
✔ Keep your AHCIP card in your wallet.
✔ Use 811 before going to Emergency unless severe.
✔ Ask your pharmacy for free health advice.
✔ Learn about walk-in clinic hours (they vary!).
Conclusion
Alberta’s health system may feel overwhelming at first, but with the right information, newcomers can access care quickly and confidently. From family doctors to free mental health support, the province offers strong services designed to support your well-being.
If you ever need help navigating healthcare, PASS Canada is here to support you.
Need help registering for AHCIP or finding a doctor?
PASS Canada can assist you — contact us today.
📩 info@passcanada.org
📍 Edmonton, Alberta
