Waiting for your OHIP card? You can still see a doctor.
Just moved to Ontario? Whether your OHIP application is processing, your card hasn't arrived, or you don't yet meet the eligibility rules, Doctor Fran connects you with licensed Ontario physicians by phone — no health card required.
No. Ontario removed it in March 2020, so eligible newcomers can be covered right away. You still have to meet the eligibility and residency rules, and applications take time to process.
Why might a newcomer still be without coverage?
Your application may still be processing or your photo card has not arrived; you may not yet meet the rule of being physically in Ontario for at least 153 of your first 183 days; your immigration status may not qualify; or you may be between documents after an expired card, a name change or lost paperwork.
Can I see a doctor while my OHIP application is processing?
Yes. Doctor Fran needs no OHIP or health card. You book in the app, pay by card, and a physician licensed in Ontario calls you, typically the same day. An expired or lost health card does not stop you booking either.
Will OHIP pay me back once my card arrives?
Generally no. Services you pay for privately before your coverage begins are not reimbursed by OHIP. Private or employer insurance may cover eligible visits, and Doctor Fran provides receipts for those claims.
What can a physician help with in the meantime?
Consultations about any health concern, referral letters to specialists and lab requisitions where clinically appropriate, and physician-issued notes for a new job or school where clinically appropriate.
Good news first
Ontario no longer has a 3-month OHIP waiting period
If you've read about a "three-month wait" for OHIP, that's outdated: Ontario removed it in March 2020, so eligible newcomers can be covered right away. For the full rundown on applying, renewing, or replacing your card — and how long each takes — see our guide to an expired, lost, or processing OHIP card. Even so, there are real gaps where newcomers find themselves temporarily without coverage:
Your OHIP application is still being processed, or your photo health card hasn't arrived
You don't yet meet eligibility rules — for example, the requirement to be physically in Ontario for at least 153 of your first 183 days
Your immigration status doesn't currently qualify you for OHIP
You're between documents — an expired card, a name change, or lost paperwork
In any of these situations, you can still see a doctor. With Doctor Fran, you book a consultation in the app, pay by card, and a physician licensed in Ontario calls you — typically the same day.
What you can get
Real care while your paperwork catches up
Referrals & labs
Keep your care moving
Need a specialist or blood work? A physician can write referral letters and lab requisitions where clinically appropriate.
Sick notes
For your new job or school
Started work or school before your card arrived? Get a physician-issued note where clinically appropriate.
Consultations
Any health concern
Talk to a licensed Ontario physician about any health question while you settle in.
FAQ
Newcomer questions
Yes. You don't need OHIP or a health card to use Doctor Fran — you pay for your consultation by card in the app, and a licensed Ontario physician calls you.
No. Ontario removed the three-month waiting period in March 2020. However, you must still meet eligibility and residency requirements, and applications take time to process — which is where Doctor Fran can help in the meantime.
Generally no — services you pay for privately before your coverage begins aren't reimbursed by OHIP. If you have private or employer insurance, your plan may cover eligible visits; Doctor Fran provides receipts.
Yes. An expired or lost health card doesn't stop you from booking. You pay by card in the app like any other patient without OHIP.
Sources & references: Ontario Ministry of Health — Apply for OHIP and get a health card (Ontario notes there is no longer a waiting period for OHIP coverage); College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) — public register. For general information only; not medical or legal advice.
New to Ontario? Don't wait to be seen.
Download Doctor Fran and speak with a licensed Ontario physician while your OHIP gets sorted.