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.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Francis Ojukwu, MBBS Family Physician, registered with the CPSO · Ontario · June 2026
The problem
Healthcare as an international student can be confusing
International students in Ontario generally aren't covered by OHIP. Most universities enrol students in plans like UHIP (University 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 UHIP 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; University Health Insurance Plan (UHIP) for international students in Ontario; College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) — public register. For general information only; not medical, legal, or insurance advice. Check your specific UHIP 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.