Your provincial health coverage will likely not cover the cost of emergency medical care that you receive outside Canada. Emergency out-of-country medical insurance can cover the significant costs of medical services if an illness or accident occurs.
You may already have this coverage through:
- a workplace group benefits plan, or
- a premium credit card that you use to book your travel.
If you are not covered by either of these, you can buy out-of-country medical insurance from most insurance companies or through bank branches.
2 things to watch for
1. Dollar limits
Some coverages – especially those offered through a credit card – have a dollar limit. The amount may be too low for your needs. For example, a $100,000 limit on medical expenses may be enough for most situations. But if you and other family members are in a car accident and are hospitalized for an extended period, your medical bill could be far higher. If you have any doubts, consider buying additional protection from a private insurer.
2. Pre-existing conditions
Check with the insurance company about coverage for an existing condition. For example, you may not be covered:
- if you have a pre-existing medical condition that is not stable before you travel, and
- that condition causes you to seek medical treatment while abroad.
2 questions to ask
- Are there maximum dollar limits on your coverage?
- Do you have a pre-existing condition that may not be covered?
Take action
Learn more about travel medical insurance.
