Who should have supplementary health insurance?

Government health insurance doesn't always cover everything you need which is why many Canadians purchase supplementary health insurance. Supplementary health insurance plans focus on non-core services that are not covered or not fully covered by government plans. While supplementary plans vary from province to province, as well as the type and level of insurance offered, the most common types of supplemental health insurance are extended health (which often provides coverage for prescriptions, vision etc.) and dental plans.

Who can benefit from supplementary insurance?

You may want to consider getting individual health insurance if:

  • Your don't have supplementary health insurance coverage through work
    Provincial health insurance coverage can be limited. As a result, it's a good idea to fill in the gaps with supplementary coverage that protects you if you are currently not covered by your employer or you are not eligible for benefits at your place of employment.


  • You're an entrepreneur
    Consider supplementary coverage if you are self-employed, working within a budget, and perhaps do not have a group plan set-up.


  • You're preparing for retirement
    Since the employee benefits plan you're accustomed to at your work place may not cover you during retirement, be prepared with supplementary health insurance.


  • You or someone in your family requires special needs coverage
    Supplementary coverage is a good idea if you or one of your dependants needs additional coverage for special needs that are not covered by your current group or work plan.


  • If you want to enhance your current plan
    If you already have coverage from your current employer, but are looking for additional benefits that may not be covered, supplementary health insurance allows you the flexibility to pick and choose exactly what coverage you want.

Who is covered under a supplementary package?

Typically the individual who is the policyholder, as well as eligible dependents such as a spouse/ partner and children under 19 (or older in some cases if they are students), can be covered under individual health insurance.

Do you know what most Canadian's know?

You won't be alone if you buy supplemental health insurance or dental insurance. Across Canada, according to the Canadian Life and Health Insurance Association, a large group of residents in every province have bought supplementary health insurance coverage:

  • Ontario:
    		•  9.1 million
  • Quebec:
    		•  5.4 million
  • British Columbia:
    		• 2.7 million
  • Alberta:
    		• 2.6 million
  • Manitoba:
    		• 770,000
  • Nova Scotia:
    		• 640,000
  • Saskatchewan:
    		• 590,000
  • New Brunswick:
    		• 520,000
  • Newfoundland & Labrador:
    		• 370,000
  • Prince Edward Island:
    		• 100,000
    *Nunavut, Northwest Territories, and Yukon not surveyed

Are you part of the majority?

Based on how many Canadians have it, it seems that most are aware of the benefits of having supplementary coverage in addition to provincial health coverage. Make sure you are prepared as well; shop around for health insurance coverage.

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