Supplementary health insurance plans target non-core services not covered or not fully covered by government health care. Supplementary plans vary from province to province, as well as the type and level of insurance offered. The most common type of supplementary insurance policies are extended versions of health and medical policies.
Supplemental insurance covers the policy holder for services over and above those provided by Government Benefit Programs, and does not replace a comprehensive approach to insurance coverage. Free health insurance benefits provided cover only basic medical needs, such as a trip to your doctor or in/out-patient hospital care.
These benefits are paid directly to the policy holder to disburse as required. Funds can be used to pay expenses such as buying prescription drugs and dental work, or to supplement income lost.
Residents of any given province in Canada may choose to purchase supplemental health insurance for services not provided by provincial health plans. Supplemental insurance is usually purchased through an employer’s group insurance plan, although are available both individuals and families. Health, medical and dental insurance are available.
Each province is responsible for managing the Canada Health Act, and as such, each province has a different approach to covered services, or choose an insurance agent to find the appropriate supplemental insurance package that suits your particular needs.