What is the best health insurance in Newfoundland for 2023?

Did you know that over 30% of medical costs in Newfoundland and Labrador are not covered by provincial healthcare? Most families end up paying this out of the pocket leaving them with huge financial burden. That's why it's essential to have a private Newfoundland 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 Newfoundland and Labrador Medicare.

But which is the best Newfoundland health insurance for you? In this guide, we take you through the best private insurances in Newfoundland and Labrador, their coverage, pros and cons, prices, how to enrol with NL MCP and more. You can also compare plans and get quotes using our free comparator at the top of this page.

Top health insurances in Newfoundland for 2023

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 Newfoundland Medicare, 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Green Shield Canada health insurance: Extensive options for every budget

Green Shield Canada, also known as simply GSC, is a non-profit insurance provider. The GSC health insurance can be bundled with other policies to save money.

Green Shield offers more affordable packages than some of its competitors, especially for younger customers who are currently in good health. This could be a great economical choice for non-smoking young adults.

However, its dental insurance policy must be purchased separately for basic plans or as an add-on. But it is one of those rare insurances that covers pre-existing conditions and does not require medical questionnaire for its basic plan.

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.

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.

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

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 Newfoundland Medicare, 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 personal health insurance.

What is the MCP in Newfoundland and Labrador?

In Newfoundland and Labrador, publicly funded healthcare is available for all legal residents through the Medical Care Plan Newfoundland. It is most frequently referred to as MCP Newfoundland or NL MCP or MCP NL.

The Newfoundland and Labrador Medical Care Plan (MCP NL) is designed to cover the cost of physician’s services for residents of Newfoundland and Labrador. The plan is administered and overseen by the Department of Health and Community Services. Hospital services are available through the Hospital Insurance Plan.

Although the NL MCP health plan covers a variety of services, there are unfortunately many services they do not cover. A private health insurance plan can bridge that gap and give you comprehensive health coverage.

What is NL MCP's coverage?

What is covered

The NL MCP directly pays physicians’ services that are medically required for you. If you are an NL resident, you are eligible for insured medical services. Benefits include the following basic services:

• Medically necessary physician and hospital visits including accommodations and meals (it may cover some home visits)
• Surgical, diagnostic and therapeutic procedures (including anesthetic supplies and services)
• Medically necessary pre-care and post-care
• Complete maternity care
• Diagnostic services (x-rays, labs)
• Some medically necessary dental-surgical procedures when performed in a hospital by a dentist or oral surgeon

What is not covered

Notable services not covered by NL MCP include the following:

• Prescription drugs and vaccines
• Medical examinations required by a third party.
• Telemedicine
• Eye examinations (for corrective lenses), glasses and contact lenses
• Paramedical services such as acupuncture, chiropractor, optometrist, osteopath, naturopath, podiatrist and physiotherapist services.
• Elective procedures such as cosmetic surgery
• Reversal of a sterilization procedure
• Sex changes unless recommended by the Clarke Institute of Psychiatry
• Routine dental services (cleanings, scalings, fillings, etc.)
• Hypnotherapy

Are you covered by NL MCP when you leave the province?

If you are temporarily out of Newfoundland and Labrador, MCP NL will cover some of the costs of insured services. Keep in mind, that the full costs of medical services received in another province, territory or country may not be covered, especially outside of Canada. Travel insurance can pay for these services in other provinces and beyond.

Is pet health insurance covered by provincial care?

No, pet health insurance is not covered by provincial health care in Newfoundland and Labrador or any other province in Canada. Provincial health care plans are designed to provide medical coverage for human residents and do not extend to covering veterinary expenses for pets.

Pet health insurance is a separate type of insurance that pet owners can purchase to help cover the costs of veterinary care, treatments, surgeries, and medications for their pets in case of illness, accidents, or other medical issues.

What is the hospital insurance plan under NL MCP?

The MCP NL also covers both inpatient and outpatient hospital services when recommended by a doctor. Some examples of services covered can be found in our chart below.

What is not covered under the Hospital Insurance?

Note that under the Hospital Insurance Plan, there are some notable services which not covered. These include:

• Charges incurred for preferred accommodation (private and semi-private rooms which are not medically required)
• Private duty nurses retained by the patient
• Drugs and appliances issued for use outside the hospital (with the exception of drugs listed under the Insured Out-Patient Services section)
• Services provided without specific medical indication (x-rays required for employment or insurance purposes, cosmetic surgery, etc.)
• Procedures provided in private non-approved Canadian diagnostic imaging facilities (MRI, CT, x-ray)
• Services related to therapeutic abortions performed outside Canada or in non-accredited Canadian facilities
• Ambulance service and other patient transportation, except when an in-patient of one hospital is conveyed to another hospital for special tests or treatment but remains an in-patient of the first
• IVF

To get a better coverage of your medical expenses, nothing beats a personalized private health insurance. Compare the best offers in Newfoundland and Labrador using our free comparison tool below:

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Should you buy private health insurance in Newfoundland?

Private health insurance in Newfoundland can vary based on the provider and plan you choose. Generally, it offers coverage beyond what the provincial healthcare system provides. Common areas that private health insurance in Newfoundland may cover include:

• Prescription Medications: Prescription drugs not fully covered by the provincial plan.
• Dental Care: Routine dental check-ups, cleanings, and more extensive dental treatments.
• Vision Care: Eye exams, eyeglasses, contact lenses, and vision-related expenses.
• Paramedical Services: Services like chiropractic care, physiotherapy, massage therapy, and acupuncture.
• Mental Health Services: Therapy sessions, counselling, and psychiatric care.
• Medical Equipment: Medical devices such as hearing aids, mobility aids, and medical supplies.
• Travel Insurance: Some plans include coverage for medical expenses when traveling outside the province or country.
• Specialized Treatments: Coverage for non-essential surgeries or treatments not covered by the public system.
• Alternative Therapies: Some plans cover alternative therapies like naturopathy and homeopathy.
• Extended Hospital Care: Coverage for private or semi-private hospital rooms.

It's important to carefully review the terms and coverage options of different private health insurance plans to choose one that suits your specific needs and budget.

How much is private health insurance in Newfoundland?

The cost of private health insurance in Newfoundland can vary widely based on several factors, including the type of coverage, the insurance provider, the level of coverage, the age of the insured individual, and any pre-existing medical conditions. On average, here's a general overview of the cost you might expect for private health insurance in Newfoundland:

Types of coverage	Monthly private health insurance premium
Basic coverage	Basic health insurance plans that provide coverage for prescription medications and essential services might start at around $50 to $100 per month for an individual
Comprehensive coverage	More comprehensive plans that include coverage for prescription medications, dental care, vision care, and specialized treatments can range from $100 to $300 or more per month for an individual
Family coverage	If you're looking for coverage for your entire family, the cost will be higher due to increased coverage needs for multiple individuals
Senior Plans	Seniors may have specialized plans tailored to their needs, and the cost can vary depending on the level of coverage
Premiums plans	Some premium plans with extensive coverage options can cost more, ranging from $250 to $400 or more per month

How to buy private health insurance in Newfoundland?

To buy private health insurance in Newfoundland, start by researching providers offering plans in the province. Compare different plans based on coverage and cost. Get quotes from your chosen providers to understand the pricing.

Once you've decided on a health insurance Newfoundland plan, complete the enrolment process by providing your personal information and making the initial payment. After enrollment, you'll receive policy documents detailing your coverage. Keep up with premium payments according to the plan's schedule. Once your policy is active, you can access the medical services covered by your chosen plan.

Another easy way to buy private health insurance is to use our comparison tool at the top of this page. Quickly compare the best offers and get free quote in a few clicks!

How does private dental insurance in Newfoundland work?

Private dental insurance in Newfoundland and Labrador is typically separate from general health insurance plans. Some comprehensive health insurance plans may offer optional dental coverage as an add-on. But more often you may have to purchase dental insurance separately.

These specialised dental insurance plans cover a range of dental services, including check-ups, cleanings, fillings, and more extensive treatments.

It's important to note that private Health and dental insurance Newfoundland plans are distinct from provincial health coverage. You must obtain them individually to ensure coverage for dental care expenses. If dental health is a priority, obtaining a dedicated dental insurance plan is advisable to receive comprehensive coverage tailored to oral health needs.

How to get NL MCP?

In order to apply for MCP, you will first need to complete the NL MCP application form below:

Once you have completed the form, you can either submit it by mail, fax or drop it off physically at an MCP office using their 24-hour mail drop-off slot. Be sure to include copies of appropriate identification and citizenship/immigration documents.

Examples of documents you can submit to prove your identity and citizenship or immigration status are:

• Canadian passport
• Canadian birth certificate

Canadian Citizens and Permanent Residents may also have to provide the following:

• previous province or territory’s health care number or card
• proof that Canadian citizenship/permanent residency status has not been forfeited if returning to Canada after a lengthy stay abroad
• proof of discharge from the Canadian Armed Forces
• proof of release from federal prison

The mailing addresses to send your application form are:

How to contact NL MCP?

If you need to contact Newfoundland and Labrador Medical Care Plan, you can do so by phone or email.

Staff are available to answer questions by calling at the following phone numbers:

• St. John’s office at 1-866-449-4459
• Grand Falls-Windsor office at 1-800-563-1557.

Questions may also be sent by email to: [email protected].

What is the NLPDP?

The Newfoundland and Labrador Prescription Drug Program (NLPDP) provides financial assistance to assist eligible residents with the cost of their prescription medications.

There are five main plans under the program:

1. Foundation Plan provides 100% coverage of eligible prescription drugs for those who need the greatest support.
2. 65Plus Plan provides drug coverage to residents 65 years of age and older who receive Old Age Security Benefits (OAS) and the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS). You will be responsible for payment of the dispensing fee up to a maximum of $6.
3. Access Plan allows individuals and families with low incomes access to eligible prescription medications.
4. Assurance Plan provides prescription drug coverage to individuals/families where eligible drug costs exceed a certain dollar limit.
5. Select Needs Plan provides 100% coverage for disease-specific medications and supplies for residents with Cystic Fibrosis and Growth Hormone Deficiency.