Interim Federal Health Program in North Oshawa, ON
Interim Federal Health Program Near You
Moving to a new country is a major milestone, and keeping your family healthy is your top priority. If you are a newcomer to Canada, whether you are a refugee claimant or a protected person, you have access to a special “safety net” for your healthcare needs.
This is called the Interim Federal Health Program in Oshawa, ON. This program provides temporary coverage for your essential health needs while you wait for your provincial health card (OHIP) to become active.
At Simcoe North Dental, we are here to help you navigate this system with ease. If you have been searching for the Interim Federal Health Program near you, our clinic is ready to provide the high-quality care you deserve. Everyone should have access to a healthy smile, and we make it simple for our new neighbors to get the urgent dental care they need as they settle into their new lives.
What is the Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP)?
The IFHP is a government-funded program that provides temporary health insurance to people who are not yet eligible for provincial health cards. It covers essential medical and dental services, acting as a bridge until you transition to a regular provincial plan.
To access these benefits, you use your Refugee Protection Claimant Document (RPCD) or your IFHP Certificate as your insurance card. You do not need to apply for a separate insurance plan; your government document is your proof of coverage.
What Does the IFHP Cover?
The program is divided into different sections to ensure you are fully protected:
Basic Coverage
Supplemental Coverage (Dental & Vision)
This part covers your dental health. The IFHP provides Emergency and Urgent Dental Care to treat pain, infections, or injuries. This includes emergency exams, X-rays, and extractions.
Prescription Drugs
Dental Coverage & Cost Summary
As of May 1, 2026, the Canadian government introduced a cost-sharing model to help manage the program. While basic dental visits are still free, there is now a small “co-payment” for supplemental services like dental care.
When using the Interim Federal Health Program near you, it is important to understand these new details.
| Service Type | What is Covered? | Your Cost (Co-payment) |
| Emergency Exams | 1 exam every 6 months per office | 30% of the cost |
| X-rays | Necessary X-rays for pain/infection | 30% of the cost |
| Fillings | Urgent repair for pain or damage | 30% of the cost |
| Extractions | Removal of infected/damaged teeth | 30% of the cost |
| Prescriptions | Medicines for pain or infection | $4 per prescription |
| Basic Medical | Dental visits and hospital care | $0 (Free) |
Note: The IFHP allows for restorations (fillings) up to approximately $2,000 per year without needing special pre-approval, provided they are for the relief of pain or infection.
What is NOT Covered?
It is important to remember that the IFHP is not a full-service dental insurance plan. It is specifically meant to handle emergencies and urgent health issues.
Therefore, some routine or elective services are not covered. These include:
Routine Preventive Care
Standard cleanings (scaling), polishing, and fluoride treatments.
Cosmetic Procedures
Teeth whitening, veneers, or any treatment meant only to improve the look of your smile.
Specialist Services
Root canal treatments (endodontics) and orthodontic treatments (braces or aligners).
Major Restorations
Crowns, bridges, and dental implants are generally excluded.
Non-Urgent Care
Fixing small cavities that are not visible on an X-ray or not causing pain is considered routine care and is not eligible.
If you have questions about a specific treatment, our team at Simcoe North Dental can check your coverage.
Why Choose Simcoe North Dental?
If you are looking for the Interim Federal Health Program in Oshawa, ON, our clinic is the perfect place for your family. We combine award-winning expertise with a warm, welcoming environment for newcomers.
Award-Winning Excellence in North Oshawa
We are proud to be home to an Award-Winning Dentist. Dr. Ann Mary Roy of North Oshawa Dental was recognized as a 2024 Platinum Award Winner in the Oshawa Whitby Readers’ Choice Awards. This means our community voted her the Best Dentist in North Oshawa. This prestigious distinction reflects the high level of trust and commitment we provide to every patient.
Multilingual Dental Team
We know that moving to a new country is easier when people speak your language. To ensure everyone feels at home and understood, our friendly staff speaks:
- English
- Hindi
- Tamil
- Malayalam
Same-Day Emergency Appointments
Dental pain can’t wait. If you or a family member has a toothache, we offer same-day emergency appointments to get you out of pain as quickly as possible.
Family-Focused Dentistry & Modern Care
From your child’s very first checkup to care for grandparents, we offer gentle dentistry for all ages in a modern clinic equipped with the latest technology.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the IFHP cover teeth whitening or routine cleanings?
No. The IFHP focuses on “urgent” care to stop pain and infection. Routine cleanings or cosmetic treatments are not covered.
How long does my IFHP coverage last?
IFHP coverage will remain in effect until you become a permanent citizen or qualify for provincial insurance. If your refugee is not approved, your coverage will end shortly after.
Do I have to pay the dentist directly?
Yes. For services received on or after May 1, 2026, you pay your 30% co-payment to the clinic at your visit. We bill the government for the remaining 70%.
Can I use IFHP if I have another dental insurance plan?
No. The IFHP is a “payer of last resort.” If you have any private insurance (through a job or a spouse), you must use that first.