Private Clinics in Quebec: Services, Advantages, and How to Choose

A private clinic is a healthcare facility that offers medical services outside of, or in addition to, the public system. In Quebec, the line between the public and private sectors is particularly well-regulated by the Health Insurance Act And the Health and Social Services Act. Understanding this distinction is essential for any patient seeking quick access to quality care.

In this article, we explain what a private clinic actually covers, the difference between services billed to the RAMQ and those paid for directly by the patient, and how to choose the facility that best suits your needs.

Private clinic vs. public clinic: what's the concrete difference?

In Quebec, basic healthcare is covered by the Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ). A consultation with a family doctor or a specialist is reimbursed by the state, whether you are in a private clinic or an CLSC. What primarily distinguishes a private clinic is:

• The possibility of offering services not covered by the RAMQ
• Often shorter waiting times for certain services
• An environment focused on accessibility and continuity of care
• Complementary services such as telemedicine and home care

It is important to note that a doctor working in a private clinic can still bill the RAMQ for covered services. The «private» distinction therefore does not automatically mean «unreimbursed.».

What services are covered by the RAMQ in a private clinic?

The vast majority of basic medical consultations are covered by the RAMQ, regardless of where they take place. Here is what is generally covered:

• General medical consultation with a RAMQ-registered general practitioner
• Prescription renewal during a consultation
• Certain screening tests
• References to specialists

However, a large number of preventive, administrative, or comfort services are not covered by the RAMQ and are billed directly to the patient.

Private services not covered by the RAMQ

Preventive medicine and health check-ups

A comprehensive health check-up generally includes a systematic review of your lifestyle habits, family history, in-depth blood tests, and a detailed physical examination.

Medical administrative services

Medical certificates for insurance, forms for the employer, work fitness evaluations.

Telemedicine and remote consultations

Many private clinics offer online medical consultations, accessible from your home.

How to choose a private clinic in Quebec?

Choosing a private clinic should not be taken lightly. Here are the essential criteria:

• Skilled medical team — Physicians registered with the CMQ, multidisciplinary team
• Transparent pricing — clearly displayed prices. Visit our page rates
• Accessibility Evening and weekend time slots
• Telemedicine — access to care anywhere in Quebec
• Continuity of care — followed by the same professional

Clinique Omicron: An Accessible Healthcare Network in Quebec

Clinique Omicron is a network of hybrid medical clinics that combines services covered by the RAMQ with an extensive range of private services. Our service points in Quebec welcome patients for in-person consultations and telemedicine.

To make an appointment, visit our page appointment scheduling call us at 514 606-3350.

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