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If you live in Newfoundland and Labrador, you’ve likely heard that you get free healthcare. Just like the rest of Canada, Newfoundlanders benefit from universal healthcare—but it’s not as simple as getting free healthcare.
In this article, we’re breaking down everything you need to know about public and private health insurance plans in Newfoundland and Labrador. And how you can get the coverage you need to stay happy and healthy.
Quick Overview of Health Insurance Options in Newfoundland
Long story short, Newfoundland has two categories of health insurance options: public and private.
Public insurance is what we know as universal healthcare. In Newfoundland, it’s called The Medical Care Plan (MCP) and covers medically necessary services like doctor visits, hospital stays, and surgeries.
Private insurance is additional coverage that helps pay for services not included in MCP, such as dental, vision, paramedical services, and prescription drugs. It’s often paid for individually or provided as part of an employer’s benefits package.
Eligibility Criteria for Health Coverage
Eligibility for healthcare coverage depends on the type of coverage.
To qualify for MCP, you must generally live in the province of Newfoundland and Labrador full-time and intend to stay for over a year. There are some exceptions that may impact eligibility such as post-secondary students, tourists, certain types of permits, and more.
For private health insurance, the limitations typically are not residency-related. As long as the premium continues to be paid (by you or your employer) and the service you need is covered by your plan, you are eligible for coverage. That being said, every plan is different. There may be limitations around waiting periods or pre-existing conditions. Your eligibility should typically be outlined when you’re applying for coverage.
Applying for Public Health Insurance in Newfoundland
Even if you’re eligible for MCP in Newfoundland, you need to register to be covered. There is no cost to register.
To apply for MCP, you need to:
- Fill an application, then submit it by mail, fax, email, or at an MCP office.
- Provide necessary documentation (e.g. proof of residency, citizenship/immigration documents)
- Receive an MCP identity number and card that you’ll need to access medical services.
If you are new to the province or relocating, apply as soon as possible to avoid gaps in your coverage. Temporary coverage may be available from your previous province of residence or through private insurance plans while you wait for your health card.
Comparing Private Health Plans for Additional Benefits
While the MCP covers most essential medical services, it does not include prescription medications, dental, vision, or alternative treatments like physiotherapy for most residents. Many Newfoundlanders opt for private health insurance to fill these gaps.
Private health plans typically offer coverage for extended health services, like vision, prescription drugs, and dental. Before selecting a private insurance plan, it's important to compare the differences to choose the right plan for you.
- Premiums: These are the monthly fees you pay in order to keep your coverage active.
- Covered Services: Some plans may focus more on basic health services, while others may offer more comprehensive coverage, including mental health support and medical equipment. Make sure your plan covers what you need.
- Coverage Limits: Different plans have different coverage limits and amounts. For example, some plans may limit the total dollar amount per service. Some may have limits that only cover a percentage of the total cost of a service.
- Deductibles: You may have to pay an amount out-of-pocket to use your coverage. It’s important to know what your deductibles and co-pays are, so you can strike the right balance between the cost of your premiums and avoid any unexpected surprises.
- Waiting periods: There may be a period of time when you first purchase your plan that has limited amounts of coverage. (e.g. You might have less dental coverage the first year.) Make sure you understand and are comfortable with any waiting periods.
- Exclusions: Even private plans don’t cover everything. Take the time to understand the exclusions in your plan.
Supplemental Coverage for Dental, Vision, and Prescriptions
While doctor visits and other essential medical services are important, there are a lot of daily healthcare expenses that aren’t covered by MCP. This is why many residents opt for supplemental or private insurance.
Private plans can cover:
- Dental Care: Routine dental check-ups, cleanings, and fillings are generally not covered under MCP. Private insurance plans or employer-sponsored benefits cover these services. The Provincial Dental Health Plan does cover certain dental services for children and those receiving Income Support benefits. Others may also be eligible for coverage from the Canadian Dental Care Plan.
- Vision Care: Eye exams and glasses are also not included in public health coverage, but many private plans may cover eye exams and the cost of corrective eyewear. The Children, Seniors, and Social Development program does contribute a sum toward vision care for those receiving Income Support.
- Prescription Drugs: In Newfoundland, MCP does not cover prescription drugs outside of hospitals for most residents. There is some coverage available for seniors, lower-income, and other eligible groups. But most residents rely on private insurance for prescription coverage.
- Extended Health Services: Additional services such as physiotherapy, massage therapy, chiropractic care, and psychotherapy can be extremely valuable for keeping you healthy. These services usually aren’t covered under MCP but many private insurance plans offer benefits that cover the costs of these services.
Short-Term Health Insurance for Visitors
Visitors to Newfoundland are not eligible for MCP, which is why having travel insurance is essential. Depending on your needs, travel insurance can cover:
- Emergency medical care
- Emergency dental services
- Prescription drugs
Many travel insurance policies offer temporary coverage for durations ranging from a few days to several months, depending on your needs. Take the time to review all the details of your policy, especially if you're visiting for an extended period or will be participating in more extreme activities that can cause potential injury.
For other Canadians visiting Newfoundland and Labrador for a longer period of time, you may be able to keep your coverage from your home province for that period of time.
Health Coverage for Families and Dependents
In Newfoundland, children under the age of 18 are covered under a parent or guardian's MCP. Spouses and common-law partners can be included in a family plan.
While children are offered additional coverage, like dental—it’s often still beneficial for families to take advantage of private insurance plans. It provides access to more comprehensive benefits beyond what’s covered by MPC. For example, many private insurance plans can cover braces and orthodontics for children—which can be extremely costly out of pocket.
Some private insurance plans also include coverage for maternity-related expenses, such as prenatal care, childbirth, and postnatal services.
Newfoundland also offers several programs providing financial assistance for families with low incomes to help cover the cost of prescription drugs, dental care, and other medical services.
Summary: Newfoundland Health Insurance
There are many types of health insurance coverage available for Newfoundlanders. Make sure to take the time to review your options to find the right insurance plan for you and your family’s needs.
- Newfoundland and Labrador’s Medical Care Plan can cover the essentials but doesn’t cover all your medical needs.
- Private health insurance can help individuals and families access more comprehensive coverage and reduce the risk of unexpected medical expenses.
- Make sure to review the premiums, coverage amounts, deductibles, and exclusions when deciding on private healthcare plans.