There is a clear chain of responsibility: the host family or residence staff act first, the school program and custodian are informed, and you are contacted.
- Urgent situations: Anyone in Canada can call 911 for police, ambulance or fire. Hospitals give priority to patients who need emergency care.
- Everyday illness: The host parent tells the school when a student is sick and arranges a clinic visit. Some school insurance plans add a multilingual helpline and video appointments with a doctor.
- Custodian's role: For a minor studying without a parent, the custodian named in the notarized IRCC declaration is the responsible adult in Canada who cares for and supports the child.
- Keeping you informed: Program guidelines commonly ask hosts to include parents in medical appointments by video where possible, and insurers ask to be called promptly after any hospital admission.
- What to prepare: Send a medical history, allergy and medication list in English, and make sure your child carries the insurance card and the program's emergency number.
Please note: Procedures differ by school and insurer; ask for the written emergency protocol before your child travels.
Official sources: Canada.ca: Health care in Canada · Central Okanagan Public Schools (SD23): International student handbook · Surrey Schools International: Medical insurance
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