What is the Best Manitoba Health Insurance Plan in 2025?
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- A perfect option for people group benefits in the last 60 days
- Great plan for vision and dental options
- Access to MySunLife Mobile App to manage your Health Coverage Choice plan online
- A perfect option for people group benefits in the last 60 days
- Great plan for vision and dental options
- Access to MySunLife Mobile App to manage your Health Coverage Choice plan online
The Sun Life Health Choice B plan is tailored for individuals or families seeking a comprehensive health insurance option that extends beyond basic coverage. This Sun Life health insurance plan ensures robust support in key areas such as prescription drugs, dental care, hospitalization, vision care, and paramedical services, while also providing optional dental benefits. It is particularly suited for those who want a well-rounded health coverage option with flexibility for additional needs.
Prescription drug coverage under this plan reimburses 80% of eligible expenses, up to an annual maximum of $1,300. Vision care is covered at 100%, up to $200 every two calendar years, which includes exams and corrective lenses. Extended health provisions include paramedical services, such as chiropractors and physiotherapists, with a combined annual maximum of $500 for all practitioners. The plan also offers dental benefits covering preventive and restorative care, reimbursing up to $700 annually.
Emergency travel medical insurance is a significant highlight of this plan, providing up to $1,000,000 lifetime coverage for emergencies during trips lasting up to 60 days. Hospital stays in semi-private rooms are supported with 85% reimbursement, capped at $5,000 annually. This comprehensive mix of benefits ensures that you are well-protected against unexpected health expenses.
Ideal Profile: The Health Choice B plan is ideal for individuals or families with moderate to high healthcare needs who value extensive coverage. It suits those seeking dependable insurance for major medical expenses, including dental and vision care, while ensuring robust travel medical coverage for peace of mind during trips.
- Extensive prescription drug coverage with a high annual maximum
- Comprehensive dental benefits for preventive and restorative care
- Generous emergency travel medical insurance
- Semi-private hospitalization support
- Excludes orthodontics and major procedures like implants
- Annual caps on some benefits may not be sufficient for extensive ongoing care
- Limited flexibility for those requiring specialized high-cost treatments
- Additional drug and dental benefits
- Access to text, audio, or video chat with a doctor on your computer
- Access to MyGoodHealth.ca
- Additional drug and dental benefits
- Access to text, audio, or video chat with a doctor on your computer
- Access to MyGoodHealth.ca
The Blue Cross Complete Health Essential Plan is a dependable option for individuals and families seeking comprehensive health coverage with essential benefits. This plan is well-suited for those looking for practical, everyday support for their health needs, covering a wide range of services without the cost of premium-level coverage.
With 70% reimbursement, this Blue Cross health insurance policy provides coverage for key health practitioner services, including physiotherapy, chiropractic care, and naturopathy, with a maximum of $400 per practitioner annually. Dental care is also robust, offering coverage for preventative treatments, cleanings, and fillings with no annual maximum. Accidental dental benefits are generous, with a $7,000 lifetime cap, ensuring protection for unexpected dental emergencies.
For vision and hearing care, the plan provides $150 for vision expenses every two years and $400 for hearing aids every five years, helping members maintain these critical aspects of their health. Prescription drugs are covered at 70% with no overall annual maximum, providing valuable support for ongoing medication needs.
Additionally, the plan includes an Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD&D) benefit, offering up to $15,000 for the policyholder or their spouse and $5,000 for each dependent child. This added protection provides peace of mind for unforeseen events, ensuring financial security for your family in challenging times.
Ideal profile: The Health Essential Plan is perfect for individuals and families who want a balance between affordability and coverage. It suits those who need regular support for health practitioners, dental care, and prescriptions while appreciating the added safety net of AD&D benefits. If you’re seeking solid, everyday health insurance that doesn’t overextend your budget, this plan is a great match.
- 70% coverage for health services, dental care, and prescriptions.
- No annual cap on dental preventative services and fillings.
- Generous AD&D benefit for financial security in emergencies.
- Vision and hearing care benefits for ongoing needs.
- Does not include travel insurance coverage.
- Limited coverage for advanced dental procedures like orthodontics or implants.
- Practitioner visit caps may not suffice for high-need individuals.
- Obtain special rates for couples and families
- Fast and easy electronic claims
- Earn rewards and save on premiums with Manulife vitality
- 24/7 access to virtual healthcare anywhere in the world
- Obtain special rates for couples and families
- Fast and easy electronic claims
- Earn rewards and save on premiums with Manulife vitality
- 24/7 access to virtual healthcare anywhere in the world
If you’re transitioning from workplace benefits or looking for dependable health coverage that mirrors group insurance, the Manulife FollowMeᵀᴹ Enhanced Plan offers a seamless solution. Designed to provide robust coverage without medical questions during the application process, this plan ensures you can continue to access critical healthcare services, including prescription drugs, vision care, and extended health benefits.
In terms of its drug coverage, this Manulife health insurance plan reimburses 80% of eligible costs up to $1,500 annually, with a maximum dispensing fee of $6.50 per prescription. Vision care is equally comprehensive, providing $200 every two years for eyeglasses, contact lenses, and laser eye surgery, along with $60 for routine eye exams.
The hospital coverage is a noteworthy benefit, offering 100% coverage for semi-private rooms for the first 60 days (up to $175 per day), followed by 50% for the next 90 days. Extended health care includes $600 annually for registered specialists and therapists. Mental health support is available, with 10 covered visits for psychologists, psychotherapists, or speech therapists.
The plan also provides access to TELUS Health Virtual Care, offering 24/7 on-demand consultations with healthcare professionals, ensuring you’re supported whenever and wherever you need help. You also have the option to add emergency travel insurance of up to $5 million in coverage for trips lasting up to 15 or 30 days.
Ideal profile: The FollowMeᵀᴹ Enhanced Plan is ideal for individuals or families transitioning from group insurance who need dependable drug and health coverage. It’s particularly suited for those who don’t require dental benefits but want comprehensive vision, hospital, and extended health care support with no medical questions during application.
- Guaranteed acceptance if you apply within 90 days of leaving workplace benefits.
- Strong drug coverage with 80% reimbursement and a $1,500 annual maximum.
- Comprehensive hospital, vision, and extended health benefits.
- Includes mental health support and virtual healthcare access through TELUS Health.
- Option to add robust emergency travel insurance for peace of mind.
- No dental coverage, which may be a limitation for some users.
- Some exclusions in drug coverage, such as fertility and birth control drugs.
- Vision care benefits are capped at $200 every two years, which may not suit those with high optical needs.
- Designed to provide drug coverage for unexpected illnesses
- Get instant access to your benefits with the GreenShield pay-direct benefit card
- No waiting period
- Designed to provide drug coverage for unexpected illnesses
- Get instant access to your benefits with the GreenShield pay-direct benefit card
- No waiting period
The GreenShield ZONE 5 Choice plan is a well-balanced health insurance option for individuals seeking moderate prescription drug benefits, strong extended health coverage, and essential dental care. It offers comprehensive protection without the high premiums of top-tier plans, making it an excellent fit for self-employed individuals, retirees, and those without employer benefits.
Prescription drug coverage is set at 80% up to $5,000 annually, ensuring that regular medication users receive financial relief. Dental benefits begin at $800 in Year 1 and increase to $1,200 by Year 3, with 80% coverage for routine care and 50% for major procedures.
Extended health benefits are robust, with $600 per practitioner per year for chiropractic care, massage therapy, physiotherapy, naturopathy, and more. Mental health support includes $600 per year for psychologists and therapists, providing a strong foundation for emotional well-being. Vision care includes $250 every two years for eyewear and $80 for routine eye exams.
For travellers, the plan includes $5 million in emergency medical coverage for trips up to 30 days, making it ideal for vacationers or business travellers. Additional benefits include ambulance services, accidental dental coverage up to $10,000 annually, and hearing aid benefits of $500 every four years.
Like all GreenShield personal health insurance plans, the ZONE 5 Choice plan includes access to the GreenShield Pharmacy with free prescription delivery. You also get access to GreenShield+ app that allows you to submit claims online, track benefits, and print ID cards anytime.
Ideal profile: The ZONE 5 Choice plan is best for those who need balanced drug, dental, and health coverage without excessive costs. It’s particularly useful for those who require regular medication, routine dental care, and extended health services such as physiotherapy or chiropractic treatment. If you need higher drug coverage or orthodontic benefits, you may want to explore ZONE 6 or ZONE 7 plans.
- 80% prescription drug coverage up to $5,000 per year, offering strong financial support for medications.
- Progressive dental benefits, increasing to $1,200 annually by Year 3.
- $600 per year per practitioner for chiropractic, physiotherapy, massage therapy, naturopathy, and more.
- Emergency medical travel insurance with $5 million coverage per trip (up to 30 days), regardless of age.
- Free prescription delivery through GreenShield Pharmacy.
- No orthodontic coverage.
- Major dental services are covered but only at 50%.
- Perfect option if you had a health or dental plan in the last 60 days
- Emergency travel medical optional benefit
- Accidental death, dismemberment and specific loss optional benefit
- Flexible payment options
- Access to Teladoc Medical Experts
- Perfect option if you had a health or dental plan in the last 60 days
- Emergency travel medical optional benefit
- Accidental death, dismemberment and specific loss optional benefit
- Flexible payment options
- Access to Teladoc Medical Experts
The Guaranteed Plus Plan enhances the features of the basic Guaranteed Plan, offering higher coverage limits and broader benefits. Guaranteed acceptance ensures no medical underwriting is required. Like the Guaranteed Plan, this plan provides the flexibility to choose with or without a drug card, catering to your specific prescription needs.
The with-drug card option covers 80% of eligible prescription drug costs, with an increased annual limit of $2,000. The without-drug card version excludes prescription drug coverage, making it more economical for those who don’t require medication benefits.
Extended health services, including physiotherapy, massage therapy, and chiropractic care, are reimbursed at $40 per visit, with a combined annual limit of $400. Dental benefits include both preventive and restorative treatments, such as fillings and extractions, covering 80% of costs up to $1,000 annually.
Ideal profile: This plan is a great fit for individuals or families who want more comprehensive health and dental coverage without medical underwriting. It’s especially suitable for those who require restorative dental care or higher prescription drug limits, and appreciate the flexibility of including or excluding drug coverage.
- 80% prescription drug coverage.
- High restorative and preventive dental care with 80% reimbursement
- Higher limits for extended health services, with $400 in annual combined coverage.
- Flexible drug card option for tailored prescription management.
- Premiums are higher than the basic Guaranteed Plan, reflecting the enhanced benefits.
- Prescription drug costs are not covered in the without-drug card version, limiting its value for individuals with ongoing medication needs.
Did you know that over 30% of medical costs in Manitoba are not covered by your provincial healthcare? Most families end up paying this out of the pocket leaving them with a huge financial burden. That's why it's essential to have a good private health insurance.
Private health insurance also helps you cover essential yet expensive services like dental care, vision care and prescription medications, many of which are not covered or offered very limited protection by Manitoba Health.
But how do you know which is the best Manitoba health insurance for you? In this guide, we take you through the best private insurances in Manitoba, their coverage, pros and cons, prices, even how to get you Manitoba Health Card if you don't have one, and more. You can also compare plans and get quotes using our free comparator at the top of this page.
Manitoba's Best Health Insurances
- Sun Life health insurance: Hassle-free policy access
- GMS health insurance: Comprehensive coverage
- Manulife health insurance: The most comprehensive options
- Blue Cross health insurance: The most flexible choice
- GreenShield personal health insurance: Plans for every budget
- Desjardins health insurance review: Wide coverage
- CAA health insurance: The best bundling discounts
- Canada Life health insurance: Best guaranteed policies
Top 2025 best Manitoba Health insurance plans
Sun Life health insurance: Hassle-free policy access
Sun Life offers three health plans, all with differing levels of coverage which allows you to find a plan that is tailored to your specific needs. It has a comprehensive online portal and an app that allows you hands-on access to your claims and benefits information even while on the go.
The policies of Sun Life personal health insurance are a sensible choice if you do not have benefits through your employer, you are losing your group coverage, or if you would like additional benefits not offered by your employer’s or province’s healthcare (like AHCIP in Alberta, MSP in BC) and drug coverage.
Note that you must have provincial or territorial health and drug coverage to apply for personal health insurance.
Pros of Sun Life
- Submit claim online or via app
- Quick and easy online quote
- Option of having semi-private hospital room with all plans
- Reimbursement for paramedical services
Cons of Sun Life
- Emergency travel medical, vision not included in Basic plan
- Each family member must have the same plan
If you would like to explore further and get a sun life health insurance quote that is personalised to meet your unique needs, you can do so below and get results in a few moments.
For example
The premiums are determined by factors such as age, gender, optional extras, plan type, smoker status, lifestyle, and even province. A Basic Sun Life private health insurance policy for a 40-year-old Manitoba resident is $50.42. A standard policy is $63.46. Meanwhile, a comprehensive policy is $128.04 with dental care.
GMS health insurance: Comprehensive coverage
GMS offers plans ranging from basic coverage to comprehensive health coverage, all of which have the option to add dental benefits and/or drug benefits. With GMS, you will be able to tailor a plan to fit your health needs.
They have a comprehensive online portal, My GMS, which allows for easy access to your benefit information and the ability to submit a claim online. Their travel plans for certain plans automatically adds Covid-19 treatment coverage.
GMS health insurance Canada is a choice for you if you do not have health benefits through your employer, starting your own business, or if you would like additional benefits not offered by your employer’s or province’s health and drug coverage.
Pros
- My GMS portal access
- Submit a claim online or via the app
- Counselling and speech therapy is covered in some plans
Cons
- Some GMS health insurance reviews have criticized the limited dental plan
- Some GMS health insurance coverage reviews note that hospital benefits are not automatically included
- Vision and travel insurance not included in the basic plan
If you think GMS is the right fit for you or would like to give it a try, you can now get a quote from GMS health insurance and get a policy that suits your unique health needs and budget the best.
For example
The premiums are determined by factors such as age, gender, optional extras, plan type, smoker status, and lifestyle. A basic GMS plan for a 40-year-old Manitoba resident who is losing group benefits, and with dental care would cost as low as $67.75 a month. Meanwhile, a premium plan would cost $187.00/month with comprehensive coverage.
Manulife health insurance: The most comprehensive options
Manulife offers many comprehensive health insurance plans - whether you are looking for dental benefits, drug benefits, or a combination, you will be able to find a plan that works for your health needs.
There is a comprehensive online portal offered by Manulife health insurance for easy access to policy information and to submit a claim online. All health and dental plans have the option to add Manulife Vitality which gives you the opportunity to earn rewards and save on how much you pay.
Manulife private health insurance is a choice for you if you do not have health benefits through your employer, you are losing your group coverage, or if you would like additional benefits not offered by your employer’s or province’s health and drug coverage such as dental or medication-only coverage.
Pros
- Manulife Vitality rewards program
- Submit claims online or via the app
- Option to choose dental-only, medication-only, or a combination plan
- Option of having private or semi-private hospital room with all plans
Cons
- Some Manulife health insurance reviews note that hospital benefits are not automatically included
- Basic traveller’s insurance only covers the first 9 days of a trip
- No specific Manulife health insurance for retirees
For example
The premiums are determined by factors such as age, gender, optional extras, plan type, smoker status, and lifestyle. A Manulife ComboPlus™ starter plan for a 40-year-old Manitoba male resident is $79.40 per month, and $91.50 for a ComboPlus™ basic plan. Meanwhile, the monthly premium for a ComboPlus™ Enhanced Plan is $134.70.
Blue Cross health insurance: The most flexible choice
The Canadian Association of Blue Cross Plans is a federation of non-profit insurance providers operating across Canada since 1938. Its members collectively insure over 7 million Canadians under their federally licensed coverage.
Blue Cross Health Insurance offers several plans that can include health benefits, drug, and dental coverage depending on what your needs are. It provides an easy-access online portal to your benefits information and lets you submit claims. Their plans of Blue cross health insurance canada allow for the optional add-ons of services such as critical illness coverage and hospital expenses.
Blue Cross private health insurance is intended for people who do not have access to a private group plan, or if they would like additional benefits not offered by their employer’s or province’s healthcare program (like Ontario Health Insurance Plan or the MSP in BC), and drug coverage such as dental or medication-only coverage.
For freelancers, there is the Blue Cross health insurance self-employed package. Blue Cross student health insurance is an affordable package for those in higher education or those who have recently graduated.
Pros of Blue Cross
- Named Canada's most respected health insurance company in 2022 by the Most Respected Award Program
- Connected Care digital health platform
- Self-service options
- Submit claims online or via the app
- Mix and match plans as needed
Cons of Blue Cross
- Some Blue Cross Canada health insurance reviews have criticized the customer service
- Dental coverage is limited
- Only available to Canadian citizens
For example
The premiums are determined by factors such as age, gender, optional extras, plan type, smoker status, and lifestyle. A basic Blue Cross plan for a 40-year-old Manitoba resident is $48.26 per month. For a more comprehensive coverage, the premium would be $95.47 per month.
GreenShield personal health insurance: Plans for every budget
GreenShield is a trusted health insurance provider offering two main types of plans: ZONE and LINK. ZONE plans are flexible, catering to individuals and families without group benefits, with options that range from guaranteed-acceptance basic coverage to premium-level plans. LINK plans are perfect for those transitioning from group benefits, providing guaranteed acceptance and coverage for pre-existing health conditions. (Applications must be received within 90 days of your group benefit end date.)
GreenShield’s reimbursement system is a highlight, with top-tier ZONE plans covering up to 90% of prescription drug costs. Dental care, including basic and preventive services, is reimbursed at rates of 70-90%, depending on the plan. All GreenShield personal health insurance plans also come with multi-trip emergency travel medical insurance of up to $5 million. Generous limits for vision care, professional services, and extended health benefits make these plans comprehensive and reliable.
The GreenShield+ platform ensures convenience by enabling online claims submission, direct deposit, and real-time benefit management from anywhere. Added services like telemedicine, mental health counselling, and access to digital pharmacy with free prescription delivery further enhance the appeal of GreenShield plans.
Ideal for retirees, self-employed professionals, small business owners and those who work on contract, GreenShield personal health insurance offers flexible, independent coverage options that adapt to changing life stages and needs.
Pros of GreenShield personal health insurance
- Wide range of plans to suit many needs and budgets
- Up to 90% reimbursement for prescription drugs
- Dental services reimbursed at 70–90%
- Convenient online claims system with GreenShield+
- Comprehensive benefits for vision care and professional services
- Guaranteed acceptance for many plans
- Travel medical coverage in all plans, with no age limits
- Access to telemedicine and digital pharmacy with free prescription delivery services
- Benefits continue irrespective of age or health changes, as long as premiums are paid
Cons of GreenShield personal health insurance
- Orthodontics and major dental services are covered only after Year 3
- No stand-alone dental plan options
Good to know
Monthly GreenShield personal health insurance costs are based on factors such as age, plan type, province of residence, and number of people on the plan (single, couple or family).
Desjardins health insurance review: Wide coverage
Desjardins is a leading provider of insurance in Canada with an illustrious history. It offers private health insurance to bridge the gaps in the provincial healthcare programs like the MSP in BC or the AHCIP in Alberta.
Desjardins health insurance plans can be bundled with other policies like travel, life, dental in order to save money. Compared to competitors, Desjardins premiums are slightly higher however they offer a wider range of coverages.
That said, in some ways the company is behind some of its competitors as it does not offer the ability to sign up for a policy online.
Pros
- Dental, medical, vision and travel insurance included in the standard plan
- Online health platform and 24/7 telephones assistance
- High maximum coverage limits
- Enhanced hospital care
Cons
- A policy can only be issued on the 1st or 15th of the month
- Lack of comprehensive online services
- Plans not available after 70 years old
For example
The premiums are determined by factors such as age, gender, optional extras, plan type, smoker status, and lifestyle. Young non-smokers should expect to pay around $100 - $150 for their monthly private health insurance. Desjardins does not offer quotes online so the only way to find out how much they would charge you is to speak with one of their representatives.
CAA health insurance: The best bundling discounts
The CAA, or the Canadian Automobile Associate, was founded more than 115 years ago. It is one of the largest not-for-profit automobile associations in Canada. It also offers CAA insurance packages, including private health insurance.
CAA has partnered with Manulife health insurance for over 20 years, allowing them to offer pre-packaged plans mix and match plans tailored to your specific health needs. They have a 30-day guarantee where if you are not satisfied with the coverage, you may request a refund within 30 days of receiving your policy.
This provider is a choice for you if you do not have health benefits through your employer, you are losing your group coverage, or if you would like to mix and match prescription and dental coverage. Note that you must have provincial or territorial health and drug coverage to apply for personal health insurance
Pros
- Ability to mix and match plans
- Discounts are available when you bundle health and dental
- 30-day refund policy
- Partnership with Manulife
Cons
- No online claims submission
- Some CAA health insurance reviews have cited long wait times for dental treatment
For example
The premiums for personal health insurance Manitoba policies are determined by factors such as age, gender, optional extras, plan type, smoker status, and lifestyle. The monthly premium for a CAA health insurance Manitoba basic plan for a 40-year-old female resident in Manitoba with the optional dental care would be $68.00. For an enhanced plan and with comprehensive dental coverage, the premium is $174.25/month.
Canada Life health insurance: Best guaranteed policies
Founded in 1847, Canada Life is the country's first home-grown insurer and today has more than 12 million clients. Canada Life offers a variety of levels of health insurance, all with differing levels of coverage which are designed to suit your needs, including prescription drugs, dental care, vision care and more.
They have comprehensive optional add-ons for you to further personalize your health plan. They also offer a ten-day look-and-see period. You can cancel your policy with no penalty during the first ten days.
Canada Life health insurance is a choice for you if you do not have medical benefits through your employer, you are losing your group coverage, or if you would like additional benefits not offered by your employer’s or province’s health and drug coverage like the Ontario Health Insurance Plan or the MSP in BC.
Note that you must have provincial or territorial health and drug coverage to apply for private health insurance Manitoba plans.
Pros
- Multiple plans that offer guaranteed acceptance
- Quick and easy online quote and application
- Comprehensive optional coverage add-ons
Cons
- Travel medical insurance is not automatically included in their plans (it is an optional add-on)
- Some Canada Life health insurance reviews have noted long callback times
For example
The premiums are determined by factors such as age, gender, optional extras, plan type, smoker status, and lifestyle. The monthly premium for a basic plan for a 40-year-old female resident with routine dental cover in Manitoba is $143. The same without dental cover would be just $47 per month.
Among top health insurance companies in Manitoba are also other providers like RBC health insurance, TD health insurance, and Costco health insurance.
What is Manitoba's Health Plan?
The Manitoba Health plan is a universal public healthcare plan for Manitoba residents that covers basic medically necessary services.
Manitoba's health care system has a broad network of services and programs. Because it is publicly funded, you do not have to pay for many medical and hospital services. It is overseen by Manitoba Health, Seniors and Active Living.
The medical services themselves are delivered through local regional health authorities (RHAs), which are five agencies set up by the province to meet the needs of Manitobans. These include:
- Interlake-Eastern RHA,
- Northern Health Region,
- Prairie Mountain Health,
- Southern Health/Sante Sud and
- Winnipeg Health Region
Before seeking medical care, it is important to know what is covered, what is not covered and how to make sure you have access to your Manitoba Health Insurance card and other necessary resources.
What are the Manitoba Health Regions?
There are different resources for different regions in the Province of Manitoba. See the list below for a list of the Manitoba Health Regions so you know what rules apply depending on the region you are in before buying a plan.
- Winnipeg Regional Health Authority | Churchill
- Northern Health Region
- Prairie Mountain Health
- Interlake-Eastern Regional Health Authority
- Southern Health-Santé Sud
What does the Manitoba Health cover?
Manitoba Health will cover residents for certain medically necessary physician services. They will pay the physicians and clinics directly. This means that you do not have to pay out of pocket for these expenses. Some examples of basic medical services that are covered are:
- Patients billed for insured services by physicians practicing outside the plan are entitled to reimbursement from Manitoba Health
- Physicians' services
- Surgery and anaesthesia
- X-ray and laboratory services in Manitoba approved facilities only when ordered by a physician
You may find yourself asking what physician’s services are actually covered. We have broken those down for you:
| Covered in Manitoba | Details |
|---|---|
| Optometrists |
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| Chiropractors |
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| Dental Surgeons |
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| Hospital services: |
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While Manitoba covers some hospital services, it is likely that you will require treatment outside of the scope of what they cover. A private health plan will protect you from large bills for those services. We explore what is not covered below.
What does the Manitoba Health not cover?
While Manitoba health plan covers a variety of services that you can access using Health insurance card Manitoba, there are unfortunately many services they do not cover that a private health insurance plan would cover. Services not covered include the following:
- personal care home benefits outside of Manitoba
- health services performed at the request of a third party, such as examinations for employment, drivers' licences, insurance, travel, immigration or emigration
- care and treatment covered by the Workers' Compensation Board, the Department of Veterans Services or by other statutes
- services that are not medically required
- services such as examinations, laboratory tests, x-rays and other procedures related to uninsured services
There were certain services that were covered under the Manitoba health plan but effective April 1, 1996, the following are no longer covered:
- Routine complete eye examinations for persons 19 years of age or older but under the age of 65
- Chiropractic treatments as a result of a motor vehicle accident covered by Manitoba Public Insurance
Good to know
Private dental insurance is therefore crucial as Manitoba Health doesn't cover most dental services. This can lead to high out-of-pocket costs for essential treatments, discouraging preventive care. Getting a private health and dental insurance Manitoba plan will help you afford regular check-ups, treatments and even extensive procedures, promoting overall oral health.
Manitoba's Health plan does not necessarily cover all medical expenses. In that light, it's critical to have a good private health insurance Manitoba policy. While it may seem like a time-consuming process, we've made it simple for you. You could use our comparator below and quickly compare prices, coverage, and even get quotes from the best health insurance Manitoba providers in no time.
Compare The Best Health Insurance Plans and Rates on the market!
Do you need private Manitoba health insurance?
Private health insurance in Manitoba is beneficial because while the provincial healthcare plan covers essential medical services, it has several limitations. Private insurance supplements these gaps by offering coverage for services like dental care, vision care, prescription medications, and specialized treatments.
This ensures that you have access to a broader range of healthcare services and can manage unexpected medical expenses more effectively. Private health insurance also reduces wait times for specialists and elective procedures, provides flexibility in choosing healthcare providers, and offers additional benefits that cater to individual health needs.
What does private Manitoba health insurance cover?
Private health insurance in Manitoba offers additional coverage beyond the provincial healthcare plan, including:
- Dental Care: Coverage for routine check-ups, cleanings, fillings, and more.
- Prescription Medications: Financial support for prescription drugs not fully covered by the public plan.
- Vision Care: Coverage for eye exams, glasses, contact lenses, and corrective procedures.
- Specialized Treatments: Coverage for therapies, chiropractic care, physiotherapy, and alternative treatments.
- Travel Insurance: Protection for medical expenses when traveling outside the province or country.
- Extended Hospital Rooms: Option for semi-private or private hospital rooms.
- Paramedical Services: Reimbursement for services like massage therapy, acupuncture, and more.
- Mental Health Services: Coverage for therapy sessions, counseling, and mental health treatments.
- Medical Equipment: Financial support for durable medical equipment and supplies.
- Additional Benefits: Depending on the plan, coverage for hearing aids, critical illness, and more.
How much is private Manitoba Health insurance?
The cost of private health insurance in Manitoba can vary widely based on factors such as your age, health status, coverage level, and the insurance provider you choose. Monthly premiums for basic plans might start around $50 to $100 for young, healthy individuals, but more comprehensive plans with additional benefits could cost several hundred dollars per month.
For example, the monthly premium for a basic plan for a 40-year-old male resident without dental coverage is $50 per month. However, a more comprehensive package with premium dental cover and drug benefits in Manitoba is $250 per month.
How can you get private Manitoba Health insurance?
- Research Plans: Explore different insurance providers and plans available in Manitoba.
- Compare Coverage: Compare coverage, benefits, and premiums to find a suitable plan using our free comparator.
- Request Quotes: Contact insurers to request personalised quotes based on your needs using HelloSafe comparator.
- Apply and Review: Fill out the application, review terms, and submit required documents.
- Approval and Payment: Once approved, pay the premiums to start your coverage.
Good to know
It is to be noted that while having a private health insurance in Manitoba is critical, all private plans require you to first be covered by the provincial health plan. So if you don't have Manitoba pubic health coverage yet, read on to find out how you can get access to Manitoba Health.
Are you eligible for the Manitoba health plan?
In order to be to use benefits from the Manitoba health plan, you must meet a few requirements. To be eligible for Manitoba Health coverage you must:
- Be a Canadian citizen or
- Have immigration status as outlined in The Health Services Insurance Act:
- Permanent Residents
- Work Permit holders and their spouse/dependants (Permit validity periods apply)
- Establish a permanent residence in Manitoba, and
- Reside (physically) in Manitoba for six months in a calendar year
The following are people not eligible for coverage under public health insurance in Manitoba:
- Tourists
- Transients
- Visitors
- Domestic students temporarily absent from other provinces and territories in Canada to attend educational institutions in Manitoba
Good to know
If you are an international student attending university in Manitoba, you will need to obtain private health insurance. You could check the coverage of the best health insurance plans Manitoba region using our comparator.
How to apply for a Manitoba health card?
You can apply for your Manitoba health card online by accessing their online Manitoba Health Registration Form or using the form below:
Send your form to the following address:
Manitoba Health - Insured Benefits Branch
300 Carlton Street
Winnipeg MB R3B 3M9
CANADA
You can also apply in person or via email at:
- In-person at the address above
- Email: [email protected]
Watch out!
You will need to provide proof of legal status in Canada, as well as proof of residency in Manitoba. The documents must be photocopies – Do not send the originals.
Examples of supporting documentation are:
- A valid Manitoba driver’s license
- Your motor vehicle registration
- A home or tenant insurance policy
- A utility bill from the last 2 months
It typically takes between four to six weeks to process Manitoba health card applications. Applying as soon as you can get your documents together will help you receive health coverage as early as possible.
Once you complete the application to prove your residency in Manitoba, you will receive your health card which will come with your Personal Health Identification Number (PHIN). This will allow you to access healthcare throughout the province.
How to get a replacement for the Manitoba health card?
If you lost your Manitoba health card or it was stolen or damaged, you must contact the Insured Benefits Branch immediately for a replacement. You may apply for the replacement using the form below or by filing the online eNotice of Change form.
The Insured Benefits Branch may be reached during business hours Monday to Friday 8:30 am to 4:30 pm at the number below:
Phone Numbers:
- Voice: 204-786-7101
- Toll-Free: 1-800-392-1207
- Fax: 204-783-2171
- Deaf Access Line TTY/TDD: 204-774-8618
For residents within the province, but outside Winnipeg:
Call the Manitoba Relay Service at 711 or 1-800-855-0511 to reach the above number.
Are you covered by Manitoba Health when out of the province?
Yes and no. If you are visiting another Canadian province or territory and need hospital or medical care, show your Manitoba Health card. In most cases, the doctor and hospital bills will be sent directly to Manitoba Health for processing.
If you travel outside of Canada, you will be responsible for the majority of medical bills you incur. That’s why it’s always a good idea to buy travel health insurance Manitoba plan before you leave. Health care services in other countries, particularly the United States, can be significantly more expensive than in Manitoba.
If you are admitted on an emergency basis to a hospital outside of Canada, Manitoba Health will pay for the services you need based on established daily rates. In case you are treated in a hospital outpatient or emergency department, coverage is limited to a maximum of $100 CDN per visit. Physician services are covered at the same rates paid to Manitoba doctors.
What is Shared Health Manitoba?
Shared Health leads the planning and coordinates the integration of patient-centred clinical and preventive health services across Manitoba. Shared Health also delivers specific province-wide health services and supports centralised administrative and business functions for Manitoba health organisations. The Shared Health site allows you to find access to services as well as find service.
How is health insurance for seniors in Manitoba?
In Manitoba, seniors have access to the provincial healthcare plan, which covers essential medical services. Additionally, seniors may consider private health insurance to supplement coverage. Manitoba's healthcare plan includes:
- Doctor Visits: Medically necessary visits to doctors and specialists.
- Hospital Care: Inpatient services, surgeries, and emergency medical care.
- Diagnostic Tests: X-rays, lab tests, and other diagnostics.
- Some Prescription Drugs: Manitoba Pharmacare covers a portion of prescription drug costs based on income and age.
However, as a senior, provincial health will not cover some services like dental care. This can be quite expensive. So seniors can enhance coverage with private insurance, covering services like prescription medications, dental care, vision care, and specialised treatments.
