When you move to the Annapolis Valley, you'll need a Health Card to access health services. In Nova Scotia, as in the rest of Canada, the cost of most medical services is covered by the government's general revenue. You don't routinely pay a fee to visit your doctor or receive necessary hospital treatment.
Obtaining your Health Card
Nova Scotia's Medical Services Insurance (MSI) Programs provide eligible residents with coverage for medically required hospital, medical, dental and optometric services. Some restrictions apply, and visitors to Nova Scotia are not eligible for coverage.
Information on Health Cards and how to obtain them is provided by the Department of Health and Wellness: Nova Scotia Health Card (MSI). The card is free—there are no premiums to pay.
Keep your card with you at all times. You'll need it to present to the physician or hospital whenever you need insured hospital or physician services.
Moving to Nova Scotia
Are you moving to Nova Scotia from within Canada? Your Nova Scotia coverage begins on the first day of the third month after the date you established residency here. Your previous province will cover you until then.
Are you moving to Nova Scotia from outside Canada? You may be eligible for coverage from the day you arrive. Certain conditions apply.
You can learn more from MSI about health coverage for those moving to Nova Scotia.
Private health insurance
Although MSI offers fairly comprehensive medical coverage, not every service is included. The MSI brochure (PDF) outlines which services are covered and which are not. Some people choose to obtain private health insurance in addition to their MSI coverage. A quick web search will show you which companies offer private health insurance in Nova Scotia.