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Health insurance in Canada is designed to cover the costs of medical and health-related services that aren't fully covered by provincial health plans. While Canada's public healthcare system, known as Medicare, ensures that many essential medical services are free at the point of use, there are significant gaps. These include prescription medications, dental care, vision care, and various extended health benefits like physiotherapy and mental health services​​.
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Health insurance steps in to bridge these gaps, offering coverage for services such as prescription drugs, dental procedures, and vision care, among others. Plans often include extended health benefits like ambulance transportation, medical equipment, and telehealth services. This type of insurance is particularly beneficial for those without employer-provided health benefits, retirees, self-employed individuals, or anyone who wants more comprehensive coverage beyond what provincial plans offer​​​​.

Yes, health insurance can cover vision care, but it varies depending on the specific plan you choose. Typically, vision care coverage includes services like optometry exams, prescription eyewear (glasses and contact lenses), and corrective eye procedures such as LASIK. Some plans might also cover a portion of the cost for vision therapy or other specialised treatments. It's important to check the details of your policy to understand exactly what is covered, as not all health insurance plans automatically include vision care.
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In Canada, provincial health plans generally provide limited coverage for vision care, often only for children, seniors, or individuals with specific health conditions. For most adults, routine eye exams, glasses, and contact lenses are not covered by provincial plans and need to be paid out-of-pocket or through additional health insurance. This is where private health insurance can make a big difference, offering broader coverage to help manage these expenses. Be sure to compare different insurance plans to find one that best suits your needs, especially if you require regular eye care.

Yes, you can get private health insurance in Canada! While the government provides universal health care, it doesn't cover everything. Private health insurance steps in to fill the gaps, covering services like prescription drugs for most adults, dental care, vision care, and extended health benefits like physiotherapy or chiropractic care​​​​. It's a great option if you're self-employed, don't have coverage through your employer, or simply want extra protection.
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With private health insurance, you can tailor your plan to fit your needs. Whether you're looking for comprehensive coverage that includes routine check-ups and major procedures, or just want to ensure you're covered for unexpected expenses, there's a plan out there for you. Plus, having private insurance means less stress about out-of-pocket costs for things like eyeglasses, dental work, and even some prescription medications​​​​. So, while Canada's healthcare system is robust, private insurance offers peace of mind and financial protection for those additional healthcare needs.

A health insurance co-payment, or co-pay, is a set percentage or amount that the insurer will cover for specific medical services or prescriptions at the time of service.
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PolicyMe Health & Dental Insurance plans operate with coinsurance for some benefits. For example, if your plan includes 70% coinsurance for prescription drugs, we’ll cover 70% of the cost (up to a reasonable amount), and you’ll be responsible for the remaining 30%.

Some benefits may also have per-session limits. For example, if your plan has a per-session limit of $100 for psychologist appointments, we'll cover $100 per session, and you’ll pay the rest.

In Canada, you can still get treated without health insurance, thanks to the universal healthcare system, also known as Medicare. This system covers medically necessary services like doctor visits, hospital stays, and emergency surgeries. However, it's important to note that Medicare doesn't cover everything. For instance, most prescription drugs, dental care, and vision care are not included for the general adult population. These services require out-of-pocket payments or private insurance coverage​​​​.
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While you won't be denied essential medical services without health insurance, having additional health and dental insurance can provide significant financial relief and access to a wider range of services. For example, dental check-ups, eyeglasses, and physiotherapy are often not covered by the government but can be included in private insurance plans. This additional coverage ensures you have access to comprehensive care without the financial burden of paying for these services out of pocket​​​​.

Health insurance in Canada is a critical safety net that goes beyond the basic coverage provided by the government. While Canada's universal healthcare system covers essentials like doctor visits, hospital stays, and some prescription medications, it often falls short in areas like dental care, vision, and extended health services such as physiotherapy and mental health support. Without additional health insurance, these out-of-pocket expenses can add up quickly, making it challenging for many Canadians to afford necessary treatments and preventive care​​​​.
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Having health insurance means you won't have to stress about the high costs of unexpected medical expenses. It ensures you can access a broader range of healthcare services when you need them, from regular dental check-ups to specialist treatments. Whether it's dealing with a sudden illness, managing chronic conditions, or simply maintaining your overall well-being, health insurance provides peace of mind and financial protection. Plus, for those not covered by employer plans, it fills the gap, offering a crucial layer of support for managing health costs effectively.

Yes, you can purchase health insurance as a couple in Canada. Many health insurance providers offer plans that allow couples to be covered under a single policy, making it simpler and often more cost-effective. By securing coverage together, you and your partner can ensure that both of you receive essential health services, such as prescription drugs, dental care, and vision care, among others. This can be particularly beneficial if one of you doesn't have coverage through work, or if you're both looking for a more comprehensive plan than what’s available through your employer.
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When purchasing as a couple, you'll typically need to provide some basic information about both partners, including personal details. Some plans may offer discounts or additional benefits for couples, so it's worth exploring different options to find the best fit for your needs. Remember, the specifics can vary by provider, so it’s a good idea to speak with an advisor who can help guide you in securing the coverage that suits both of you best.
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With PolicyMe , you can easily secure coverage for both partners by filling out a quick form and making your payment—no lengthy application process required!

Yes, health insurance premiums are tax-deductible for Canadians. Your private health insurance premiums for yourself and your dependents are eligible medical expenses that you can claim at tax filing time. This includes both health and dental insurance. It's a great way to reduce your taxable income while ensuring you and your family are covered for essential healthcare needs.
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There are some nuances to this for Canadians who run their own businesses. If you're unsure, it’s wise to consult with a tax professional to maximise your deductions and ensure compliance with CRA regulations.