Social security agreements have been signed between Quebec and certain countries (Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Greece, Luxembourg, Norway, Portugal and Sweden). If you are a citizen of a country that has signed an agreement, you must obtain a form from your social security organization confirming that you were covered in that country. This form must be submitted, once in Quebec, to the Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) .
For all other students, it is mandatory to subscribe to a private insurance plan. Most universities require their international students to purchase health insurance administered by the educational institution. Prices are advantageous (approximately CAN$600-900 for one year). Generally, the plan covers medical and hospital costs, as well as prescription drugs. On the other hand, it does not necessarily cover dental care, optics, monitoring of pregnancy and childbirth. Ask the university service for foreign students about the amount of insurance and the treatment covered. You can sign up for supplemental health insurance for care not covered by your college or university health insurance with private companies like Desjardins Financial Security, Blue Cross, etc.
If you need to see a doctor, your neighborhood medical clinics or CLSC offer you the chance to meet a nurse or doctor, usually on a walk-in basis.