What is the Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP)?

The Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP) pays for your medical services for a short period of time after you arrive in Canada.

Who is IFHP for?

IFHP is for resettled refugees, protected persons, refugee claimants, and victims of human trafficking. People detained by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) are also covered.

The type of IFHP coverage you receive and the length of your coverage depend on your status in Canada. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) or the CBSA decide whether you are eligible for the IFHP. You can find the eligibility requirements on the IRCC website. Some people who are covered by IFHP also receive Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) coverage.

What does the IFHP cover?

The following expenses may be covered:

  • Hospital visits and ambulance services.
  • Essential vaccines and medications.
  • Pregnancy and midwifery services.
  • Some vision and dental care.
  • Services by clinical psychologists, occupational therapists, speech language therapists, physiotherapists and other health professionals.
  • Home care and long-term care.
  • The Immigration Medical Exam (IME).

You can find a full list of covered services here.

How do I access health care services?

When you visit a health care provider, you must bring your Interim Federal Health Program Certificate or your Refugee Protection Claimant Document with you. You will also need to show government-issued identification.

If you are eligible for the IFHP, you do not need to pay for services. Your health care provider will receive payment from Medavie Blue Cross on your behalf. If you pay for health services, you will not be reimbursed.

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