ACAS Settlement Program - FAQ

Please note: The answers listed here are for informational and reference purposes only, and is not intended as legal advice.  Please consult your local Legal Aid Ontario community legal clinic, the HIV & AIDS Legal Clinic (Ontario), or a lawyer practicing the relevant area for legal assistance or representation.

Health: 

4a. What is an OHIP card? How do I get one?
A: OHIP stands for Ontario Health Insurance Plan, and all Ontario residents should have some form of health insurance. Once you have landed in Ontario, we can provide practical assistance such as accompanying you to a government office to apply for health coverage. 

4b. Do I receive health coverage immediately upon landing?
A: New residents usually have to wait three months.

4c. How do I find a family doctor?
A: Referrals from a friend or co-worker are great but you may also want to visit the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario webpage to locate a doctor in your area. (http://www.cpso.on.ca/)

4d. How do I find a gay-positive medical doctor?
A: That might be challenging. You can talk to doctors in your area and ask them if they have LGBT patients. You can also check out a listing of gay positive doctors which is available at ACAS.  If you know a gay-positive doctor, why not post it in our forum.