Health insurance across Canada
Cover the costs your provincial plan does not
Provincial health plans are a great foundation, but they leave gaps. Learn what extended health, dental and travel coverage can do, then talk to a licensed advisor.
- Free for you
- Compare plans
- No obligation
Commonly not covered by provincial plans
- Most dental care
- Vision care and glasses
- Many prescription drugs
- Physiotherapy and similar care
- Emergency care when travelling
Coverage varies by province. Check with your provincial plan.
Coverage
Types of health coverage
You can choose one or combine several. An advisor helps you avoid paying for what you do not need.
Extended health
Prescription drugs, physiotherapy, chiropractor, vision care, medical equipment and more, beyond what your provincial plan covers.
Dental
Check-ups, cleanings, fillings and major work. Public dental programs are limited and vary by province.
Travel medical
Emergency care outside your province or country, which provincial plans cover only in part or not at all.
Critical illness
A tax-free lump sum if you are diagnosed with a covered illness such as cancer, heart attack or stroke.
Disability
Replaces part of your income if illness or injury stops you from working.
Health spending account
For business owners, a way to pay eligible medical costs with pre-tax business dollars.
Gaps
Provincial plan versus private coverage
| Provincial plan | Private coverage | |
|---|---|---|
| Hospital and doctor visits | Generally covered | Can add private room or semi-private |
| Dental | Limited | Check-ups to major work |
| Vision | Limited | Exams, glasses and contacts |
| Prescriptions | Partly, varies by province | Can cover much of the rest |
| Travel emergencies | Limited outside your province | Emergency medical abroad |
Who it helps
Is private health coverage right for you?
Self-employed
No employer plan means you arrange your own cover.
Small business owners
Offer benefits to yourself and your team.
Between jobs or retiring
Employer benefits end, but your needs do not.
Families
Dental, vision and prescription costs add up quickly.
How it works
Getting help choosing
- 1
Get in touch
Tell us what kind of coverage you are looking for and your province.
- 2
Meet an advisor
A licensed advisor in your province reaches out.
- 3
Compare plans
See what each plan covers and costs.
- 4
Choose what fits
Apply only if it is right for you.
Questions
Health insurance FAQ
What does my provincial health plan cover?
Generally medically necessary hospital and physician services. Many costs are not covered or only partly covered, such as most dental care, vision care, many prescriptions, physiotherapy and private hospital rooms. This differs by province.
Do I need private health insurance?
Not everyone does. Many people get coverage through an employer. If you do not have a plan, or your cover is limited, private insurance can help with costs the provincial plan does not.
Do I need travel insurance within Canada?
If you travel outside your home province, provincial coverage may not pay everything, especially for emergency care and transport. Check before you go, and consider travel medical coverage.
Are there waiting periods or health questions?
It depends on the product. Some plans start right away, while others have waiting periods or ask about your health. Your advisor will explain this up front.
Are premiums tax deductible?
Sometimes. Self-employed people and business owners may be able to deduct health plan premiums. Rules are specific, so speak with an accountant.
Does RiteFinance charge for this?
No. Our service is free to you. Licensed advisors are paid by insurers, and they should tell you how.
Not sure what you need?
Get in touch and a licensed advisor can walk you through your options. Free, with no obligation.