The province is being urged to offer OHIP eligibility to new immigrants, temporary foreign workers, international students and others as soon as they arrive in the province.

The coalition of health care professionals, labour groups and immigration advocates says health coverage should be extended to all residents of the province, regardless of their immigration status.

OHIP For All held rallies in several Ontario cities yesterday, urging the Liberal government to make the change.

New arrivals over the age of 16 currently face a waiting period of up to three months before getting OHIP and temporary foreign workers without contracts don't get coverage at all.