Residents of Canada are served by the nation’s high-quality healthcare system, which is publicly funded. As an immigrant, you must understand how health insurance works in Canada so that you can obtain the care you need.
The article discusses the different healthcare options offered to immigrants, the eligibility criteria, and how newcomers can obtain health insurance.
Public Healthcare in Canada
The Canadian healthcare system is funded by the federal government and administered by each province and territory.
A typical plan covers doctor visits, hospitalizations, and emergency care, but not dental care, prescription medications, or vision care.
Provincial and Territorial Health Insurance Plans
Canadian provinces and territories have their own healthcare plans, which determine the specific coverage and eligibility requirements. Provincial health insurance programs include the following:
-
Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) – Covers residents of Ontario.
-
British Columbia Medical Services Plan (MSP) – Covers residents of British Columbia.
-
Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) – Covers residents of Alberta.
-
Quebec Health Insurance Plan (RAMQ) – Covers residents of Quebec.
-
Manitoba Health, Seniors and Active Living (MHSAL) – Covers residents of Manitoba.
In each province, new immigrants should check the specific requirements and waiting periods for health coverage.
Waiting Period for Public Health Insurance
The waiting period for public health insurance for newcomers can be as long as three months in some provinces. To cover the costs of medical care during this period, private health insurance is recommended.
Private Health Insurance for Immigrants
For additional protection, many immigrants purchase private health insurance since public healthcare doesn’t cover everything. The following can be covered by private insurance:
-
Prescription medications
-
Dental and vision care
-
Physiotherapy and chiropractic services
-
Private hospital rooms
-
Travel insurance
Top Private Health Insurance Providers in Canada
The following are some of the top private health insurance companies that offer coverage to immigrants:
-
Manulife – An insurance company that offers comprehensive health and dental coverage.
-
Sun Life – Offers individual and family health plans.
-
Blue Cross – Popular for travel and health insurance.
-
Green Shield Canada – Specializes in supplementary health and dental coverage.
-
Cigna Global – Offers international health insurance to expatriates and newcomers.
Costs of Insurance in Canada
A variety of factors influence the cost of health insurance in Canada, including coverage type, province of residence, and insurance provider. The following is a general overview of healthcare costs:
Public Healthcare Costs
The public health care system in Canada is funded by taxes, so eligible residents do not have to pay directly for it. Health insurance premiums are, however, charged in some provinces. Examples include:
-
British Columbia’s MSP premium (before it was eliminated in 2020) was around $75 per month per adult.
-
In Ontario, OHIP coverage is free, but certain services like prescription drugs may require co-payments.
-
Quebec residents pay an annual premium for RAMQ, which ranges from $0 to $710, depending on income.
Private Health Insurance Costs
The cost of private health insurance can vary considerably for those who require more coverage. Monthly premiums for private insurance are estimated as follows:
-
Basic health insurance: $50 – $100 per month
-
Extended health insurance (including dental and vision): $100 – $300 per month
-
Family health insurance plans: $150 – $500 per month
As an employee benefit, employers may offer group health insurance plans to help new employees reduce costs.
Benefits of Health Insurance in Canada for Immigrants
The importance of health insurance in settling in Canada cannot be overstated. It provides financial stability and access to quality healthcare. Immigrants can benefit from health insurance in the following ways:
1. Financial Protection Against Medical Costs
The cost of healthcare can be overwhelming, especially in an emergency situation. A health insurance policy reduces the burden of paying out-of-pocket for hospital stays, doctor visits, and medical treatments.
Health insurance is a necessity for financial stability because even basic healthcare services can be expensive without coverage.
2. Access to High-Quality Medical Services
The Canadian healthcare system is among the best in the world. Immigration is easier and more affordable when immigrants have health insurance.
Medical services are covered by public healthcare, while additional services are covered by private insurance.
3. Coverage for Prescription Medications
Unlike public health insurance, private insurance usually covers prescription drugs. People with chronic diseases who need regular medication, such as asthma, will especially benefit from this benefit.
It will enable them to manage their health without incurring excessive expenses.
4. Dental and Vision Care Coverage
The majority of provinces do not cover dental or vision care as part of their public health insurance.
The majority of private insurance plans provide coverage for dental checkups, eyeglasses, and eye exams, allowing immigrants to maintain their overall health without financial worry.
5. Preventive Care and Early Diagnosis
The health insurance policy provides access to preventive care services such as routine check-ups, vaccinations, and screenings for immigrants.
By diagnosing illnesses early, complications can be reduced, and long-term health outcomes can be improved.
6. Mental Health Support
A person’s mental health plays a significant role in their overall well-being. There are many private insurance plans that cover therapy, counseling, and psychiatric services, helping immigrants who are facing stress, anxiety, or adjustment challenges in their new country.
7. Maternity and Childcare Benefits
Health insurance can provide immigrant families with essential maternity benefits, such as prenatal checkups, hospital deliveries, and postnatal care.
Public healthcare ensures that Canadian children are provided with the necessary medical care from birth.
8. Emergency Medical Coverage
There can be unexpected accidents and medical emergencies.Immigrants benefit from health insurance because it ensures they can receive immediate care without worrying about the cost.
The costs of ambulance transportation and emergency hospital treatment are often covered by health insurance, preventing financial distress in these situations.
9. Access to Specialized Healthcare Services
The public health system may not be able to provide specialist care for some medical conditions.
Having private insurance can make it easier to access specialists like dermatologists, physiotherapists, and alternative medicine practitioners. This can enhance the quality of healthcare as a whole.
10. Peace of Mind
Immigrants can rest assured that they and their families are protected against unforeseen medical expenses when they buy health insurance.
Having comprehensive coverage helps them focus on settling into their new life in Canada without having to worry about healthcare costs.
How Immigrants Can Apply for Health Insurance
Step 1: Apply for a Provincial Health Card
Immigrants must obtain a health card from their respective provincial or territorial health authority in order to access public healthcare. Typically, this process involves:
-
Proof of residency (e.g., rental agreement or utility bill)
-
Immigration documents (e.g., permanent resident card, work permit, or study permit)
-
Personal identification (e.g., passport or driver’s license)
Step 2: Consider Private Health Insurance
To cover themselves in the interim, immigrants should purchase private insurance if there is a waiting period.
Step 3: Register with a Family Doctor
To obtain primary healthcare services and referrals to specialists, newcomers should register with a family doctor after becoming insured.
Conclusion
Having health insurance is one of the most important aspects of settling in Canada. In addition to government-provided medical coverage, private health insurance can cover additional expenses not covered by government plans.
It is important for immigrants to explore their options and secure the right health insurance plan to ensure they have access to quality healthcare in Canada.
