If a US tourist gets sick in Canada, will they be given medical care?

Question

I ask because I know it's coming off Canadian tax money and most would not be pleased to know it's spend on a US tourist.

What if it's a life-death situation?

Answer 1

You pay for your medical care if you are an American in Canada.  You will get treated and sent a bill.

If you have private insurance that gives you travel health insurance then you could be partly or fully covered.  My suggestion is to get some sort of travel insurance before leaving the country.

Answer 2

You cant be refused treatment at a hospital  . You must reside here 3 months to be covered . Best to mtake travel insurance before you leave  The Auto clubs have policies

Answer 3

Before coming to Canada take out travellers medical insurance. You will be required to put a deposit down if you require emergency treatment at a hospital. Most major credit cards are accepted. All Ontario residents must show their hospital card prior to seeing doctors or getting lab tests.

Answer 4

I hope so. If someone was really sick, it's really selfish not to give them medical care.

Answer 5

you'll hav to fork over your amex card before a doc will look at you

there is no free ride here

it is all about the money

if you don't have money

you can lie on the sidewalk and die

Answer 6

I'm pretty sure they would be helped.  I don't know the details, but I can't see them witholding treatment.  And if it's a critical situation, absolutely! As far as organ transplants and such things, I'm not too sure...you'd probably have to go back to the states for that....but if you were in a car accident the paramedics would definitely treat you.

Edit: I don't know why you would think that Canadians wouldn't like it if their tax dollars helped a sick or injured person...no matter their nationality.  I certainly would be fine with it. (I am Canadian)

Answer 7

If you became ill and needed medical attention in Canada you would receive it.  You would however, be expected to pay.  As a non-resident you're not entitled to medical attention at the tax-payer's expense.  Buy travel medical insurance before coming to Canada.

Answer 8

They could get medical care, however it wouldn't be paid with tax money.  The American would have to pay cash for it.

Answer 9

They would get treated, but they would be billed the full cost.  I exspect that it would be posible to skip out on the bill somehow if they had no intention of ever returning to Canada.