Desjardins Health Insurance: Our 2025 Canadian Review
Our expert's review of Desjardins
ScoreDesjardins SOLO Healthcare provides two robust plans—Health Plus Basic and Enhanced—tailored for Canadians seeking flexible, high-coverage health insurance, with add-ons for drugs and dental care.
Coverage limits are substantial, up to $350,000 per period for Enhanced, and optional dental and drug modules meet most needs. Key strengths include strong mental health support, up to $5,000,000 in travel insurance per trip, and extensive paramedical (up to $600/year per specialty).
Major competitive advantages are the modular approach and broad eligibility, including those with pre-existing conditions (with some restrictions). Desjardins is best suited for individuals, couples and families who require extensive, modular coverage, especially for travel and paramedical services.
As one of Canada’s largest financial groups, Desjardins manages over $10 billion in annual premiums. However, customer feedback is a concern: Trustpilot reports a 1.3/5 rating on 118 reviews, with repeated complaints about customer service and claims delays. Average reimbursement processing time is not specifically stated but customer reports suggest extended waits are common, affecting satisfaction compared to Blue Cross or Manulife.
- ✅Coverage up to $350,000 per coverage period
- ✅Comprehensive paramedical and mental health benefits
- ✅Very strong travel insurance benefits
- ✅Modular options for dental and drug coverage
- ✅Eligibility for most applicants, even some with pre-existing conditions
- ✅Broad range of specialist coverage
- ✅Second medical opinion and 24/7 nurse line included
- ❌Negative customer reviews on service and claims
- ❌Delays in claim processing commonly reported
- ❌Hospitalization not included in Basic plan
- ❌Strict dental waiting periods for major care
- ❌No clear average reimbursement timeframe disclosed
Score- ✅Coverage up to $350,000 per coverage period
- ✅Comprehensive paramedical and mental health benefits
- ✅Very strong travel insurance benefits
- ✅Modular options for dental and drug coverage
- ✅Eligibility for most applicants, even some with pre-existing conditions
- ✅Broad range of specialist coverage
- ✅Second medical opinion and 24/7 nurse line included
Our expert's review of Desjardins
- ✅Coverage up to $350,000 per coverage period
- ✅Comprehensive paramedical and mental health benefits
- ✅Very strong travel insurance benefits
- ✅Modular options for dental and drug coverage
- ✅Eligibility for most applicants, even some with pre-existing conditions
- ✅Broad range of specialist coverage
- ✅Second medical opinion and 24/7 nurse line included
- ❌Negative customer reviews on service and claims
- ❌Delays in claim processing commonly reported
- ❌Hospitalization not included in Basic plan
- ❌Strict dental waiting periods for major care
- ❌No clear average reimbursement timeframe disclosed
Score- ✅Coverage up to $350,000 per coverage period
- ✅Comprehensive paramedical and mental health benefits
- ✅Very strong travel insurance benefits
- ✅Modular options for dental and drug coverage
- ✅Eligibility for most applicants, even some with pre-existing conditions
- ✅Broad range of specialist coverage
- ✅Second medical opinion and 24/7 nurse line included
Why trust HelloSafe?
HelloSafe is an international expert in health insurance, helping over a million users every month make the right coverage choices. Our specialists have reviewed offers from 48 insurers in Canada, with an in-depth analysis of their coverage, pricing, and service quality.
What does Desjardins health insurance cover?
Desjardins offers flexible health insurance with two main options: Basic and Enhanced, plus add-ons for drugs and dental.
The Enhanced plan stands out by including hospital stays and higher annual maximums, covering a broad range of healthcare professionals and advanced mental health.
Drug and dental modules are customizable, but waiting periods and reimbursement rates vary by module and plan.
Desjardins includes strong prevention and wellness, and free 24/7 phone access to a nurse, second medical opinion, and travel assistance.
However, not all care types (especially major dental and orthodontic) are available immediately, and pre-existing conditions may be excluded from reimbursement.
Routine medical care
| Benefits | RAMQ | Health Plus Basic | Health Plus Enhanced |
|---|---|---|---|
| Prescription meds | 68% Monthly deductible: $22 Monthly max: $99.65 | 70% of first $7,142 Annual max: $5,000 | 90% of first $11,111 Annual max: $10,000 |
| Hospitalization | 100% Shared ward (3 beds or more) Unlimited days | Not covered | 100% Semi-private room Unlimited days |
| Ambulance transportation | 0% (Except for seniors or social assistance recipients) | $2,000 Per year | $4,000 Per year |
| Homecare | 0% (Excluding drugs and medical equipment) | $2,500 Per year | $5,000 Per year |
| Lab analyses | 0% (Except in public facility, hospital) | $100 Per year | $100 Per year |
Monthly deductible: $22
Monthly max: $99.65
Annual max: $5,000
Annual max: $10,000
Shared ward (3 beds or more)
Unlimited days
Semi-private room
Unlimited days
(Except for seniors or social assistance recipients)
Per year
Per year
(Excluding drugs and medical equipment)
Per year
Per year
(Except in public facility, hospital)
Per year
Per year
Dental care
| Benefits | RAMQ | Health Plus Basic | Health Plus Enhanced |
|---|---|---|---|
| Preventive and routine dental care | Not covered | 80% reimbursement, max $750/year (with basic care), every 9/36 months | 100% reimbursement, max $750/year (year 1-2), $1,000/year (year 3+), every 6/24 months |
| Basic dental care | Not covered | 50% reimbursement, max $750/year (with preventive care) | 60% reimbursement, max $750/year (year 1-2), $1,000/year (year 3+) |
| Major dental care | Not covered | Not covered | 60% reimbursement, max $500/year from year 3, 24 months waiting period |
| Orthodontics | Not covered | Not covered | 60% reimbursement, max $1,000 for the coverage period, eligible from year 3 |
Vision care
| Benefits | RAMQ | Health Plus Basic | Health Plus Enhanced |
|---|---|---|---|
| Eyeglasses, contact lenses, surgery | Not covered | $150 per person, every 24 months | $250 per person, every 24 months |
| Optometrist consultation | Covered for -18 and 65+ | $50 per person, every 24 months | $70 per person, every 24 months |
Specialized and paramedical care
| Benefits | RAMQ | Health Plus Basic | Health Plus Enhanced |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alternative medicine | Not covered | $20 per consult, $400/year per professional, some combined limits | $30 per consult, $600/year per professional, some combined limits |
| Psychologist | Not covered | $80 first consult, $65 next, max $400/year, includes other professionals | 80% reimbursement, max $500/year, includes related mental health professionals |
| Speech therapy | Not covered | $40 per consult, $400/year, combined with hearing therapist, referral needed | $50 per consult, $500/year, combined with hearing therapist |
| Travel insurance | Not covered | 100% reimbursement, $5,000,000 per trip, max 30 days, 90 days/year max | 100% reimbursement, $5,000,000 per trip, max 30 days, 90 days/year max |
What is the cost of Desjardins health insurance in 2025?
Here's the cost of health insurance for Desjardins clients:
| Type of protection (household composition) | Health Plus Basic | Health Plus Enhanced |
|---|---|---|
| Individual (1 insured) | Approx. $55/month | Approx. $85/month |
| Couple (2 insured) | Approx. $105/month | Approx. $160/month |
| Single parent family (1 adult + 2 children) | Approx. $95/month | Approx. $145/month |
| Family (2 adults + 2 children) | Approx. $125/month | Approx. $190/month |
*Indicative prices only; actual premiums may vary by situation and selected plan.*
Compare the best health insurance offers for freeDiscover offersDesjardins Promo Codes
| Desjardins promo codes | Details |
|---|---|
| Code promo HelloSafe | -5% clickable via comparator |
Note: Promo codes are subject to change. For the latest promo codes, please see our best health insurance comparison.
Is Desjardins health insurance accessible to newcomers?
This insurance is intended for newcomers, temporary workers, foreign students, or visitors to Canada who do not yet benefit from the public health insurance plan (such as RAMQ or OHIP) or who face a waiting period for access. It provides a safety net to cover health expenses during the first months upon arrival in Canada or for those who do not qualify for the public plan due to their temporary status.
- Medical care: Covers consultations and treatments following unforeseen illness or accident, with eligible medical fees reimbursed up to an annual maximum (e.g., up to $250,000 or $350,000, depending on the chosen plan).
- Prescribed treatments: Reimbursement for prescribed medications if you have selected this coverage; for example, up to 70% or 90% of drug costs, subject to plan limits.
- Specialized care: Access to health professionals such as physiotherapists, acupuncturists, chiropractors, psychologists, with reimbursement per consultation and annual maximums. Example: psychologist, up to $400 or $500 per year.
- Emergency dental care: Coverage in case of accidental injury to teeth, e.g., up to $2,000 per accident depending on the plan.
- Medical transportation: Coverage for ambulance transportation and, if necessary, medical repatriation, up to several thousand dollars per year.
- Incidental expenses (hospitalization or death): Contribution to costs related to certain hospital services, prosthetics, or, in the event of death, possible help for repatriation costs.
The insurance can generally be taken out for up to 12 months but may be renewable depending on your situation. Some limitations apply if you leave the country temporarily or travel abroad. Eligibility conditions vary: most newcomers, workers, and students are eligible regardless of age, but a minimum and maximum age may be specified depending on the plan, as well as proof of temporary status or a waiting period for public health coverage.
Watch out!
The coverage level, exclusions, and guarantee amounts may change: always request a personalized quote and verify the eligibility of each family member according to your situation.
Does Desjardins health insurance cover seniors?
This offer is designed for retirees and seniors leaving their employer group insurance, as well as those who wish to keep insurance coverage after finishing career-linked benefits. The transformation principle allows individuals to convert their group plan into an individual contract—often called the Desjardins SOLO Healthcare program—without the need for a new medical questionnaire or proof of insurability. It is important to apply within a strict deadline, which is generally up to 60 days after the end of your previous group coverage.
The following options are typically available:
- Health Plus Basic: A basic plan that covers essential health expenses, such as doctor visits, prescribed treatments, and certain outpatient services.
- Health Plus Enhanced: Offers higher reimbursement limits and covers a broader range of services, including extended coverage for health professionals, paramedical care, and higher prosthetics/equipment limits.
- Optional Drug Insurance: Available as an add-on, this module reimburses prescription drug costs—percentage and limits may vary according to province and plan.
- Dental Care Options: Add-on modules are available for preventive, basic and (with a waiting period) major dental care or orthodontics, with coverage amounts and frequencies specified per type of treatment.
- Vision Care: Reimbursement of vision exam fees and a set amount for eyeglasses, contact lenses, or corrective eye surgery every 24 months.
- Home Care and Support: Some plans offer coverage for private nursing or certain in-home support services, with annual maxima.
- Travel Medical Insurance: Short-term emergency travel protection is included, covering emergency medical care during trips outside your province, up to a maximum number of days each year.
Transformation from Group to Individual Insurance
A transformation from group to individual insurance does not involve new medical exams if you respect the application deadline. However, coverage levels, exclusions, and premiums depend on the option and individual situation. Always read the policy details carefully.
How does reimbursement work with Desjardins?
| Feature | Availability | Expert opinion |
|---|---|---|
| Online claim submission | ✅ | Submit claims digitally for faster processing and avoid mailing, which saves time and paperwork. |
| Mobile app | ✅ | Manage your policy, access documents, and view claims directly from a smartphone at any time. |
| Client space for claims tracking | ✅ | Track reimbursement progress online in real time and access your claim history whenever needed. |
| Reimbursement simulator | ❌ | No reimbursement simulator, so you need to estimate potential repayments based on policy tables. |
| Reimbursement time | 48h | Claims are processed and reimbursed within 48 hours in most cases, helping your cash flow. |
| Add or remove members with no fee | ❌ | Each member change could involve administrative fees and steps, limiting flexibility for families. |
| Phone assistance with a healthcare professional | ✅ | Access to a nurse 24/7 by phone for information or initial advice on health questions and concerns. |
| Second medical opinion | ✅ | Get an expert review of your diagnosis, helping you make informed choices about your health care. |
| 24/7 travel assistance | ✅ | Receive help for medical and other emergencies while abroad, at any time, for peace of mind. |
Customer Reviews of Desjardins Health Insurance
| Review site | Rating and number of reviews |
|---|---|
| Trustpilot | 1.3 out of 5 ("Bad") – 118 reviews |
Customer feedback about Desjardins health insurance highlights the following strengths and weaknesses:
✅ A customer mentions receiving consistently great service, with quick call-backs and fast resolution for issues such as blocked credit cards.
❌ A large number of clients report extremely long wait times on the phone and unhelpful or unknowledgeable customer service agents.
❌ Some policyholders state that initial insurance quotes were not respected and that final prices were much higher than first announced.
❌ There are several complaints about early contract termination fees and significant unjustified increases in health insurance premiums for long-term clients.
❌ Claim processing is described as slow, and many customers mention denied coverage for benefits described in their contracts.
❌ Clients express disappointment at the lack of recognition of their loyalty, experiencing cost increases without advance notice.
Here is the type of review found online :
- "I have always had positive experiences with the bank, especially their service team. During a card issue, I received a call-back in just a few minutes and my problem was resolved right away.", A. Evans, April 14, 2024, Trustpilot.
- "I do not recommend Desjardins. Getting someone to answer on the phone is a nightmare, and my claims were denied for things clearly listed in my policy. Rates have also gone up without warning.", N. Patel, March 2, 2024, Trustpilot.
How to contact Desjardins health insurance?
| Reason for contact | Contact Desjardins |
|---|---|
| 🧾 For a health insurance quote | Call 1-866-647-5013, Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Select the option for individual health insurance. |
| 🧾 For a proof of insurance | Call 1-866-647-5013, Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Request certificate from the health insurance service menu. |
| 🩺 For medical assistance | Call 1-800-465-6390, available 24/7. Use for emergencies or health advice when travelling or needing urgent support. |
| 🔍 To declare an incident or track a claim | Call 1-866-647-5013, Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Choose the claims and reimbursement tracking option. |
FAQ
Who can apply for Desjardins health insurance?
You can purchase Desjardins health insurance directly through the official website of Desjardins. However, it's highly recommended to compare different health insurance plans online before signing up to ensure the best fit for your needs.
Are there any age requirements with Desjardins?
Desjardins health insurance may set minimum and maximum age limits depending on the specific contract. Most plans cover adults and their dependents, but certain options may not be available to seniors over a specific age.
Can you add or remove insured members with Desjardins?
You can generally add or remove family members such as spouses or children to your Desjardins policy during enrollment or at renewal, following policy guidelines.
Does Desjardins health insurance cover travel outside my home province or abroad?
Yes, Desjardins plans often include travel medical coverage for emergencies outside your home province or abroad, usually for trips up to a specific duration per year.
How quickly are claims processed with Desjardins?
Most claims submitted online are processed within 48 hours. Paper claims may take longer. Direct deposit can speed up your reimbursement.
Are pre-existing conditions covered by Desjardins health insurance?
Having a pre-existing condition does not automatically prevent coverage, but treatments for such conditions might be subject to exclusions or limited reimbursement, depending on your contract.
Who can apply for Desjardins health insurance?
You can purchase Desjardins health insurance directly through the official website of Desjardins. However, it's highly recommended to compare different health insurance plans online before signing up to ensure the best fit for your needs.
Are there any age requirements with Desjardins?
Desjardins health insurance may set minimum and maximum age limits depending on the specific contract. Most plans cover adults and their dependents, but certain options may not be available to seniors over a specific age.
Can you add or remove insured members with Desjardins?
You can generally add or remove family members such as spouses or children to your Desjardins policy during enrollment or at renewal, following policy guidelines.
Does Desjardins health insurance cover travel outside my home province or abroad?
Yes, Desjardins plans often include travel medical coverage for emergencies outside your home province or abroad, usually for trips up to a specific duration per year.
How quickly are claims processed with Desjardins?
Most claims submitted online are processed within 48 hours. Paper claims may take longer. Direct deposit can speed up your reimbursement.
Are pre-existing conditions covered by Desjardins health insurance?
Having a pre-existing condition does not automatically prevent coverage, but treatments for such conditions might be subject to exclusions or limited reimbursement, depending on your contract.
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