For Canadian couples and retirees considering a move abroad, one of the most pressing concerns is healthcare. Canada’s publicly funded healthcare system, while offering free access, is often criticized for long wait times, limited availability of specialists, and restricted private healthcare options. The thought of navigating a completely different healthcare system can feel daunting. However, in many popular Canadian expat destinations across Latin America, Southeast Asia, and Europe, healthcare systems provide high-quality care with unique benefits that may even surpass what Canadians are accustomed to.
Canada’s Healthcare Crisis
Canada’s healthcare system, while universally accessible, faces significant challenges, particularly concerning wait times for specialist consultations and a shortage of medical professionals.
Wait Times for Specialist Consultations
Wait times to see specialists in Canada vary by province and medical specialty. A 2024 report by the Fraser Institute indicates that the median waiting time between referral from a general practitioner and receipt of treatment by a specialist is 30.0 weeks, an increase from 27.7 weeks in 2023.
In British Columbia, a recent survey revealed that approximately 1.2 million residents are on waitlists to see a specialist. The average waitlist comprises 282 patients, with initial consultations occurring at four weeks for urgent cases, 10 weeks for semi-urgent cases, and up to 10 months for non-urgent cases.
Doctor Shortages in Canada
Canada is experiencing a notable shortage of family physicians. More than one in five Canadians—approximately 6.5 million people—do not have a regular family doctor or nurse practitioner.
The shortage is more pronounced in certain regions. The territories experience shortages exceeding 55%, while Quebec has a 21.5% shortage, and British Columbia faces a 17.7% shortage. Projections suggest that Canada may be short nearly 44,000 physicians, including over 30,000 family doctors and general practitioners, by the end of the decade.
These challenges underscore the importance of considering healthcare accessibility and quality when evaluating potential destinations for relocation.
Understanding the Dual System: Public and Private Healthcare
Unlike Canada, where private healthcare is largely prohibited, most countries abroad operate dual healthcare systems that include both public and private options. Public healthcare systems are typically affordable and accessible to residents, while private healthcare offers faster access to doctors and specialists for an affordable fee. This format provides flexibility and choice—something that can be empowering for expats navigating a new country.
Beyond affordability and accessibility, there are several nuances of international healthcare that Canadians might find refreshing:
- Faster Specialist Access: Wait times for specialists, often a frustration in Canada, are significantly shorter abroad, especially within private healthcare systems.
- Direct Communication: In many countries, you’ll have direct access to your doctor via phone, text, or WhatsApp, allowing for quicker and more personalized communication.
- House Calls: The idea of a doctor visiting you at home might feel like a relic of the past in Canada, but it’s a standard practice in many expat-friendly destinations.
Latin America: Quality Care at Affordable Prices
In Latin American countries like Mexico, Costa Rica, and Panama, expats often marvel at the high standard of healthcare available. Public healthcare systems provide affordable care for residents, including expats who qualify. However, the private healthcare system is where many Canadians find true peace of mind.
For example, in Mexico, private hospitals are well-equipped, and specialists are often available within days, not months. The costs are remarkably reasonable compared to Canadian expectations, with a routine checkup typically costing between 200 to 270 Mexican Pesos (approximately $15 to $20 CAD). And consultations with medical specialists are around 800 Mexican Pesos (about $60 CAD).
Many doctors also speak English, and it’s common to have direct access to your doctor via phone or WhatsApp, a level of personal care rarely seen in Canada. Additionally, house calls from doctors are still a common practice in Latin America.
Southeast Asia: Exceptional Healthcare for a Fraction of the Cost
Southeast Asia, including countries like Thailand, Malaysia, and the Philippines, is another region where Canadians can access high-quality healthcare. In Thailand, for instance, private hospitals like Bumrungrad International in Bangkok are world-renowned for their state-of-the-art facilities and English-speaking staff.
The cost of private care in Southeast Asia is significantly lower than in Canada, making it accessible even without insurance. For example, the cost of a private doctor’s consultation in Thailand is between 1,000 and 2,500 THB ($42-105 CAD), while a specialist appointment may cost between 1,500 and 4,000 THB ($63-$167 CAD). Elective surgeries are often completed for a fraction of the cost back home.
Though it’s affordable for Canadians to pay out of pocket for healthcare in Southeast Asia, if you plan to access the private system, be sure to have proof of sufficient international insurance coverage. Hospitals may delay administering care if you don’t have proof of funds.
Europe: Public and Private Healthcare in Harmony
Europe offers some of the best healthcare systems globally, and many countries have public healthcare systems that are either free or heavily subsidized. Countries like Portugal, Spain, and France are particularly popular among Canadian expats.
While residents can access a robust public healthcare system, private healthcare is also readily available for those seeking shorter wait times or specialized care. Private insurance in Europe is surprisingly affordable. In Spain, for example, a visit to a private clinic costs between €50 to €75 (approximately $75 to $110 CAD).
Just as in Latin America, it’s also common in many European countries for doctors to give their personal contact details to patients, making healthcare feel more accessible and personalized.
International Insurance Options for Canadians
One of the primary concerns for Canadians abroad is the cost of healthcare, as they’re not accustomed to paying out of pocket. However, global insurance providers offer plans that cater specifically to expats, ensuring comprehensive coverage for a reasonable monthly fee. These plans often include access to both public and private systems, providing peace of mind while living abroad.
Putting Canadian Concerns to Rest
For Canadians considering a move abroad, it’s natural to worry about access to quality healthcare. However, expat-friendly destinations worldwide offer excellent care through dual public and private systems, often at a fraction of the cost Canadians might expect. With affordable insurance options, personalized care, and shorter wait times, Canadians can rest assured that their healthcare needs will be met—and often exceeded—in their new home.
Whether you’re drawn to the beaches of Costa Rica, the vibrant culture of Thailand, or the charming towns of Portugal, you’ll find healthcare systems that prioritize accessibility, affordability, and quality. Embracing this new system may not only alleviate your concerns but also enhance your overall experience of living abroad.
