Canada Health Insurance

Keeping your family safe is usually a top priority, and a family health insurance plan can definitely alleviate many of your concerns regarding your family’s well-being.

Although Canada has a healthcare system in place that provides health coverage to every citizen, Canadians will often buy a family health insurance plan in order to cover those expenses that are not paid by the provincial program.

Many people obtain family health insurance coverage through their place of work, or that of their spouse’s. However, if you do not have that advantage, it may be time to purchase an insurance plan that suits you and your family best. There are a number of plans available, so it is wise to shop around.

Inform Yourself
There are numerous insurance companies, all of which offer various plans. Talk to relatives and friends about their insurance coverage, and ask them for the name and telephone number of the insurance companies they would recommend. Contact not one, but a few companies to make an appointment with one of their agents. Once you have gathered all the necessary information, compare plans and the cost.

The First Step
Prior to buying family health insurance, you should determine what type of coverage you need. For example, if you and/or members of your family wear prescription glasses or contacts, you may want to buy an insurance plan that includes vision care. Dental care is also an important option as most provincial health plans do not pay for dental expenses.

Questions to Ask
Before making your final decision on a family health insurance plan, ask the insurance company the following questions:

• What does the plan cover and what does it exclude? All insurance plans contain clauses with regard to exclusions or exceptions; they must be read carefully and understood.
• Is it possible to combine two plans in order to better suit a person’s needs?
• Does the plan cover any pre-existing conditions? Some plans will not provide coverage for an existing medical ailment.
• How much will the monthly premiums be? You should be well-informed on the details of your premiums, as well as the consequences of payment default.
• Is a medical exam required? With some companies, a medical exam is mandatory; it can be performed either in your home or at a designated location.

While it may seem like a lot to do, your family’s health and your well-being are important issues - family health insurance can give you peace of mind.