Studying in Ontario without OHIP? You can still see a real doctor. Doctor Fran connects international students with licensed Ontario physicians by phone — book in the app, pay by card, and speak to a doctor typically the same day.
Are international students in Ontario covered by OHIP?
Generally not. Most universities automatically enrol international students in a mandatory health insurance plan, and colleges often arrange private insurance instead. Our student insurance guide explains what these plans cover.
Can I see a doctor without OHIP?
Yes. OHIP is not required to receive medical care in Ontario — it is only one way of paying for it. With Doctor Fran you pay for the consultation in the app by card, and a physician licensed in Ontario calls you, typically the same day. No health card or family doctor is needed.
Will my school's insurance reimburse the visit?
Many university and college plans reimburse eligible visits with physicians licensed in Ontario. Doctor Fran gives you a receipt to submit to your insurer. Coverage rules vary by plan, so check your policy or ask your school's insurance office.
Can I get a sick note for a missed exam or class?
Yes, where clinically appropriate. After a phone assessment, the physician can issue a sick note for missed classes, exams or work.
What else can a physician help with?
Mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, stress and homesickness; referrals to specialists and lab requisitions; and prescription refills and medication renewals where clinically appropriate. Every physician is licensed in Ontario and registered with the CPSO.
The problem
Healthcare as an international student can be confusing
International students in Ontario generally aren't covered by OHIP. Most universities automatically enrol students in a mandatory health insurance plan, and colleges often arrange private insurance — but knowing where you can actually be seen, what's covered, and what paperwork you need can be overwhelming, especially when you're sick and far from home.
Doctor Fran keeps it simple: you don't need OHIP, a health card, or a family doctor. Book a consultation in the app, pay by card, and a physician licensed in Ontario calls you.
Sick notes for missed classes, exams, or work — issued where clinically appropriate
Same-day phone consultations that fit around your class schedule
Mental health consultations — anxiety, depression, stress, homesickness
Referrals to specialists and requisitions for lab tests
Prescription refills and medication renewals, where clinically appropriate
Receipts provided — many university and private plans reimburse eligible physician visits (check your plan's terms)
FAQ
Questions from international students
Yes. OHIP is not required to receive medical care in Ontario — it's only one way of paying for it. With Doctor Fran you pay for your consultation directly in the app with a credit or debit card.
Many university and college plans reimburse eligible visits with Ontario-licensed physicians. Doctor Fran provides a receipt you can submit to your insurer. Coverage rules vary by plan, so check your policy or ask your school's insurance office.
Yes — after a phone assessment, the physician can issue a sick note where clinically appropriate. See our sick note page for details on how it works.
Physicians on Doctor Fran see patients from all walks of life across Ontario, including students. Every physician is licensed in Ontario and registered with the CPSO.
Sources & references: Ontario Ministry of Health — OHIP eligibility; College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) — public register. For general information only; not medical, legal, or insurance advice. Check your specific school or insurer plan for coverage and reimbursement terms.
Sick and far from home? We've got you.
Download Doctor Fran and speak with a licensed Ontario physician — no OHIP required.