Who handles healthcare?
Healthcare
Healthcare in Canada is a shared responsibility. The federal government provides funding and sets national standards through the Canada Health Act, provinces deliver healthcare services and manage hospitals, and municipalities operate public health units and some long-term care.
⚠️ Shared Jurisdiction: This area involves multiple levels of government. The information below shows the primary responsibility at each level, but overlap is common. When in doubt, start with the level most directly related to your issue.
Federal
Parliament of Canada
- ● Healthcare funding through Canada Health Transfer
- ● Indigenous health services (First Nations and Inuit Health Branch)
- ● Quarantine and border health measures
- ● Drug safety and approval (Health Canada)
- ● Veterans healthcare
💡 Example: Contact your MP about federal healthcare funding priorities, or reach Health Canada about drug safety concerns.
Provincial
Provincial Legislature
- ● Hospital services and management
- ● Physician and nurse licensing
- ● Provincial health insurance plans (OHIP, RAMQ, MSP, etc.)
- ● Wait times and healthcare delivery
- ● Long-term care home regulation
💡 Example: Contact your provincial health ministry about wait times, or file a complaint with the provincial college of physicians about a healthcare provider.
Municipal
City / Town Hall
- ● Public health units and inspections
- ● Ambulance and paramedic services (varies by province)
- ● Community health centres
- ● Local health promotion programs
💡 Example: Contact your local public health unit about food safety inspections or community health programs.
Quick Reference — Who to Contact
🏛️ Federal
Your Member of Parliament (MP)
🏢 Provincial
Your MPP, MLA, or MNA
🏘️ Municipal
Your City Councillor
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