Frequently Asked Questions
What is an International Patient?
An International Patient at SickKids is defined as: A child who permanently resides outside of Canada and has traveled to Toronto to receive an assessment/ consultation and/or treatment at SickKids and intends to return to their country of residence once he/she is discharged from SickKids.
What is our primary function?
- Act as a single point of contact
- Provide direction from inquiry to post treatment
Who are our clients?
- International children and their families
- SickKids’ physicians and non medical departments
- Foreign Governments and Non Governmental Organizations
How are International Patients Funded?
- Private Insurance, Foreign Governments, Self Pay, Humanitarian Organizations (Herbie Fund)
What happens after my child is discharged?
- The International Patient Program provides assistance with a range of post-discharge issues. Please contact us for more information.
What are your business hours?
- Our business hours are Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. EST.
Are spiritual needs services available for international patients?
- SickKids chaplaincy staff is committed to diversity within our patient population. Members of the chaplaincy staff offer spiritual and emotional care to patients, families and staff.
What airports are close to SickKids?
- Toronto Pearson International Airport services the Greater Toronto Area.
What activities are there in Toronto?
- There are a variety of activities to enjoy while in Toronto. For more information please visit Tourism Toronto
Should you wish to make a referral to The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) for an international patient, please complete the referral form.