What is the Best Health Insurance in Nova Scotia for 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
- Easy application and claim process
- Special rates for single parents and families
- Several wellness benefits
- Easy application and claim process
- Special rates for single parents and families
- Several wellness benefits
The Health Plus Priority Plan is tailored for individuals, families, and small business owners who want to balance comprehensive coverage with affordability.
One of the standout features of this Health Plus health insurance plan is its 70% reimbursement for prescription drugs, including an $8 dispensing fee, with an impressive annual limit of $30,000. For those seeking paramedical services such as physiotherapy, chiropractic care, or massage therapy, this plan ensures up to $600 per practitioner annually. Even better, the first $250 can be claimed directly without extra steps, making it hassle-free for regular visits.
Mental health support is another highlight, with up to $600 annually for psychologist and social worker sessions after the first year, along with five free counselling sessions included through the Member Assistance Program.
Under dental care, preventative care like exams, cleanings, and fillings, is covered at 70%, while major restorative procedures, such as crowns and dentures, are reimbursed at 50% after a waiting period. For vision needs, the plan offers $300 every three years for exams and eyewear, and hearing aids are reimbursed up to $500 every three years. Additionally, the plan includes $1,000,000 per incident for emergency medical travel coverage for trips lasting up to 60 days, giving you peace of mind when exploring new destinations.
Ideal Profile: This plan is perfect for individuals, families, and small business owners who need dependable, all-encompassing health coverage. It’s especially ideal if you’re looking for enhanced mental health support, substantial travel medical coverage, and broad dental and paramedical benefits. If you want peace of mind for both routine and unexpected health needs, the Health Plus Priority Plan is an excellent choice.
- Generous prescription drug coverage with a high annual cap of $30,000.
- Strong support for mental health services, including free counselling.
- Extensive travel emergency medical coverage for trips up to 60 days.
- Dental benefits that cover preventative care and major restorative work.
- Requires pre-approval for claims exceeding $250 for paramedical and mental health services.
- Major restorative dental coverage has a waiting period before full benefits apply.
- Orthodontics and fertility treatments are not included.
- 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%.
Did you know that over 30% of medical costs in Nova Scotia 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 helps you cover essential yet expensive services like advanced dental and vision care, and prescription medications, many of which are not covered or offered very limited protection by the provincial Nova Scotia Medical Service Insurance (MSI).
But which is the best Nova Scotia health insurance for you? In this guide, we take you through the best private insurances in Nova Scotia, their coverage, pros and cons, prices, how to get an MSI Card and more. You can also compare plans and get quotes using our free comparator at the top of this page.
Nova Scotia's best health insurance plans
- 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: Wide variety of 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 health insurance plans in Nova Scotia
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 MSI in Nova Scotia, 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 like what Sun Life offers, you could get a quote right here based on your unique health needs and budget.
For example
The premiums depend on 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 35-year-old Nova Scotia resident is $49.96. A standard policy is $60.32. Meanwhile, a comprehensive policy is $121.36 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 depend on factors such as age, gender, optional extras, plan type, smoker status, and lifestyle. A Basic GMS plan for a 35-year-old Nova Scotia resident who is losing group benefits, and with dental care would cost as low as $65.75 a month. Meanwhile, a premium plan would cost $200.00/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 Manulife health insurance nova Scotia premiums are based on factors such as age, gender, optional extras, plan type, smoker status, and lifestyle. A Manulife ComboPlus™ starter plan for a 35-year-old Nova Scotia female resident is $79.40 per month, and $89.50 for a ComboPlus™ basic plan. Meanwhile, the monthly premium for a Health insurance nova Scotia ComboPlus™ Enhanced Plan is $143.10.
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. 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 MSI in Nova Scotia, 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
- Limited dental coverage
- Only available to Canadian citizens
For example
The health insurance Nova Scotia premiums are based on factors such as age, gender, optional extras, plan type, smoker status, and lifestyle. A basic Blue Cross plan for a 35-year-old Nova Scotia resident is $23.87 per month. For a more comprehensive coverage with enhanced dental care add-on, the Enhanced Blue Cross plan premium would be $110.06 per month.
GreenShield personal health insurance: Wide variety of plans for every budget
GreenShield offers two categories of health insurance plans: ZONE and LINK plans. ZONE plans provide flexible coverage options for individuals and families without group benefits, with a range of tiers from basic to premium. These plans are perfect for those needing affordable coverage. LINK plans are designed for individuals transitioning out of group benefits, offering guaranteed acceptance and coverage for pre-existing health conditions. (Applications for LINK plans must be received within 90 days of the group benefit end date.)
The coverage under GreenShield personal health plans is extensive, with prescription drugs reimbursed up to 90% in higher-tier plans. Dental services, including basic and preventive care, are reimbursed at 70-90%. GreenShield’s vision and professional services also enjoy generous reimbursement limits, ensuring comprehensive care for users. All plans also come with multi-trip emergency travel medical insurance of up to $5 million.
The GreenShield+ platform enhances customer experience by allowing easy claims submission, direct deposit for quick reimbursements, and managing your benefits, all in one place. Each plan also includes access to telemedicine, mental health services, and GreenShield pharmacy with free prescription delivery.
GreenShield personal health insurance is best for self-employed individuals, retirees, or small business owners who lack group benefits. Its flexibility in plan design and comprehensive coverage options make it a great choice for those looking for reliable and adaptable health insurance.
Pros of GreenShield personal health insurance
- Diverse range of plans to choose from
- Prescription drug reimbursement up to 90%
- Dental coverage for basic and preventive care at 70-90%
- Straightforward application – apply online or over the phone
- Extensive coverage for vision, professional services, and extended healthcare
- Guaranteed acceptance for many plans
- No age limit on multi-trip emergency medical travel coverage
- Fast claims submission and reimbursement with GreenShield+
- Access to 24/7 telemedicine and digital pharmacy with prescription delivery
- Coverage lasts for the entire life of the insured, regardless of age or future health changes, as long as premiums are paid
Cons of GreenShield personal health insurance
- Orthodontics and major dental coverage start only after Year 3
- No stand-alone dental coverage
Good to know
Monthly GreenShield personal health insurance premiums depend on factors like 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 health insurance nova Scotia premiums are based on 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. In Nova Scotia, it's called Atlantic CAA.
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 Nova Scotia 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 Nova Scotia basic plan for a 35-year-old female resident in Nova Scotia would be $35.80. For an enhanced plan and with comprehensive drug and dental coverage, the premium is $200.70/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 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 based on factors including age, gender, optional extras, plan type, smoker status, and lifestyle. The monthly premium for a basic Canada Life plan with basic dental for a 35-year-old female resident in Nova Scotia is $77.51. The same with comprehensive dental cover would be $170.46 per month.
Among top health insurance companies in Nova Scotia are also other providers like RBC health insurance, TD health insurance, and Costco health insurance.
What is Nova Scotia Medical Service Insurance?
Nova Scotia Medical Services Insurance (MSI) is the provincial plan of insured medical services. MSI will pay for the cost of a wide range of medically necessary physicians’ services, as well as some dental and optometric services. It is completely free to residents of Nova Scotia.
Good to know
You must show your MSI Health Card in order to receive services covered by MSI. We will explore further below how to get your card.
What is MSI's coverage?
What is covered by Nova Scotia's Medical Services Insurance
MSI covers a broad range of services; however, they need to be medically necessary and prescribed by your physician. Some examples of services that MSI will pay for are:
- Surgical services, including the services of
- anesthetists and surgical assistants where necessary
- Obstetrical care, including pre-natal care, cesarean section, post-natal and newborn care or any complications of pregnancy such as miscarriage
- Sterilization procedures, both male and female
- Treatment of fractures and dislocations
- Referrals to specialists, including consultations
- Diagnostic services except those that are available
- under the Insured Hospital Services
- Physical examinations deemed medically necessary
- Supervision of home dialysis
- Well baby care
- Pap smears and other preventative measures
MSI also covers some optometric services. It covers routine eye exams are but it is to once every two years for children age 9 and younger as well as those age 65 and older. If you do not fall into those age groups, you do not have coverage for optometric services. You must pay out of pocket or through a private health insurance.
MSI covers the following dental services:
- Certain basic dental services are insured for children aged 14 and younger. Any private coverage is accessed first.
- Medically required dental services may be covered with a physician’s referral.
Dental services must be received in NS.
Good to know
Although MSI is generous in terms of coverage it's not perfect. We recommend purchasing a Nova Scotia health insurance private policy to make sure you avoid substantial medical bills.
What is not covered by Nova Scotia's MSI
MSI does cover a variety of medically necessary services but they are many things they do not cover. You would be responsible for paying for the following services:
| Service | Items not covered |
|---|---|
| Acupuncture | No acupuncture services are covered |
| Annual or Periodic Complete Physicals | Not covered if no disease or symptoms |
| Completion of Forms | Certificate of illness, government, insurance, daycare |
| Examination or Physicals | Treatments unrelated to an illness or medical symptom, such as: employment, immigration, insurance, motor vehicle or pilot licence, private adoption, school, camp or sports physical |
| Health Aids or Devices | Eyeglasses and hearing aids, contact lenses, surgical appliances, wheelchairs, crutches, most orthotic and prosthetic appliances except those insured under the MSI Prosthetic Services Program that insures for limb prostheses, ocular prosthesis and mastectomy prosthesis |
| Medical Advice by Telephone, Letter, Fax or E-mail | These services are not covered under MSI |
| Medical-Legal Services | Correspondence for legal purposes, court appearances as a witness |
| Medical Supplies | Drugs, syringes, sutures and dressings, allergy sera, vaccines not issued by the Department of Health and Wellness |
| Office Expenses | Chart transfer costs, photocopies |
| Patient Requested Services | Cosmetic surgery (e.g. facelift, removal of tattoos), cosmetic treatment of varicose veins, ear piercing, in-vitro fertilisation, services solely delivered by osteopaths, chiropractors, dental hygienists, massage therapists, reversal of tubal ligation or vasectomy |
| Prescription Renewal when Patient is Not Seen |
Some other medical epenses are not covered by MSI:
- Paramedical personnel when providing counselling or treatment
- Services of chiropractors, naturopaths, psychologists, podiatrists and osteopaths
- Group immunizations (except those approved by the Department of Health and Wellness)
- Services available under the Workers’ Compensation Act, Department of Veteran’s Affairs or any other statute
While MSI does offer life-saving coverage, there's still a big chunk of healthcare that it does not cover. Services like dental care, IVF, physiotherapy, could be truly critical in ensuring a healthy lifestyle. That's why we recommend having a private health insurance to make sure you have access to these services that might otherwise be very unaffordable.
All you need to do is just use our free comparator to compare the best plans and get quotes based on your unique needs, from the best health insurance Nova Scotia providers. You get quotes in seconds and while also retaining your anonymity.
Compare The Best Health Insurance Plans in Seconds
Should you get private health insurance in Nova Scotia?
While the provincial healthcare in Nova Scotia covers essential healthcare, it doesn't cover many services that may not be considered "medically necessary" however essential for good quality of life. These services might include prescription medications, dental care, vision care, certain types of therapy, and elective medical procedures among others.
Here are a few reasons why you must choose a good personal health insurance Nova Scotia plan:
- Coverage for Non-Medically Necessary Services: Private insurance provides coverage for services that are not deemed medically necessary but are still important for an individual's health and well-being.
- Prescription Medications: The cost of prescription medications are quite high, and many medications are not covered by the public healthcare system. Private insurance can help mitigate these costs.
- Dental and Vision Care: Public healthcare does not generally cover routine dental and vision care, such as dental cleanings, eyeglasses, and contact lenses. Private insurance helps you manage these expenses.
- Specialised Services: Private plans cover specialised services or therapies such as physiotherapy, chiropractic care, or important psychological counselling. Public health insurance does not cover them.
- Quicker Access to Services: Private health insurance provide quicker access to certain services or specialists, reducing wait times for non-urgent procedures.
What does private health insurance in Nova Scotia cover?
Here's a breakdown of what a private health insurance Nova Scotia plan typically covers:
| Covered Services | Details |
|---|---|
| Prescription Medications | Coverage for various prescription drugs that may not be covered by the public system. |
| Dental Care | Includes routine check-ups, cleanings, fillings, and other dental treatments. |
| Vision Care | Coverage for eye exams, eyeglasses, contact lenses, and vision-related expenses. |
| Paramedical Services | Coverage for services like chiropractic care, physiotherapy, and massage therapy. |
| Mental Health Services | Some plans may offer coverage for therapy sessions, counseling, and psychiatric care. |
| Medical Equipment | Coverage for medical devices such as hearing aids or mobility aids. |
| Travel Insurance | Coverage for medical expenses when traveling outside the province or country. |
| Elective Medical Procedures | Coverage for non-essential surgeries or treatments not covered by the public system. |
| Alternative Therapies | Some plans might cover alternative therapies like acupuncture or naturopathy. |
Please note that coverage of private health insurance Nova Scotia and the specifics can vary widely depending on the insurance provider and the specific policy chosen. Review the terms and conditions of any private health insurance plan in Nova Scotia. Understand the coverage, and the limitations or exclusions.
How much is private Nova Scotia Health insurance?
The cost of private health insurance in Nova Scotia 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, basic private health insurance plans in Nova Scotia can start at around $50 to $100 per month for an individual. However, more comprehensive plans that offer broader coverage for services like prescription medications, dental care, and vision care can cost significantly more, potentially ranging from $100 to $300 or more per month for an individual.
For example
For example, for a 35-year-old female resident, the health insurance nova Scotia cost would be $79.40 for a Manulife Basic plan, while for a more comprehensive plan with extensive dental coverage, the premium would be $143.10 per month.
Family coverage plans that include dependents will typically cost more due to increased coverage needs. Premiums can also increase as individuals age, as older individuals generally require more medical care.
How to buy private Nova Scotia Health insurance?
Here are steps you can follow to get the best health insurance plan in Nova Scotia:
- Research Plans: Look into different private health insurance options in Nova Scotia, considering coverage for medications, dental, vision, and more.
- Contact Providers: Get in touch with insurance companies offering coverage in the province through their websites, phone, or in-person visits.
- Get Quotes: Ask for cost estimates for the plans that interest you, sharing your details and coverage preferences.
- Check Details: Review plan terms, coverage limits, costs, and any exceptions to ensure they match your needs.
- Select and Enroll: Choose the plan that fits best and complete enrollment by providing personal information and finalizing paperwork.
To get a private helath insurance quote personalized for your needs, use our free comparison tool at the top of the page.
Go for health and dental insurance Nova Scotia plans to ensure you get holistic coverage. Dental care in particular can be very expensive so it's essential to get coverage. Most health insurance plans offer dental care as an add-on while comprehensive plans have extensive coverage.
Good to know
Private health and dental insurance Nova Scotia is not a replacement for the public healthcare system. Before you have a private health insurance plan, it is mandatory to be covered by the provincial healthcare system. Therefore, enrol in the Medical Services Insurance (MSI) program. If you haven't already, read on to find out how to enrol and get your MSI heath card.
How to apply for an MSI health card?
To apply for your Nova Scotia Medical Insurance health card, you will need to contact the MSI Registration and Inquiry Department at 902-496-7008 or at 1-800-563-8880 (toll-free within Canada), to begin the application process. Blank applications are not provided.
Applications are assessed on an individual basis and you will have to show proof of Citizenship or Immigration. Some examples of proof of citizenship include:
- Canadian birth certificate
- Valid Canadian passport (or one that has not expired for more than five years)
- Canadian citizenship card or certificate (both sides)
- NEXUS card
- Registration of Birth Abroad
- Canadian military ID
- RCMP ID card
- Proof of Canadian Old Age Security (OAS), Proof of date of birth will also need to accompany this
- Certificate of Indian Status Card
Once your application has been processed, MSI will issue health cards for each family member. You must present your health card to health care providers before receiving insured health services.
How to renew you MSI health card?
Your Nova Scotia MSI Health Card periodically expires and needs to bed renewed. Three months before your renewal date, MSI will mail you a Health Card Renewal form which you must complete, sign and return to MSI. Once you submit the form, and no additional information is required, coverage will be renewed and a new card sent out with a new expiry date.
Didn't receive the form? You can download the renewal form below or call the MSI office.
The MSI Health Card Renewal form that Nova Scotia residents receive in the mail every 4 years was recently updated. Work and Study Permit holders and need to renew their MSI health card, you cannot use the Health Card Renewal form and must call MSI in order to renew their health card.
Can you renew you MSI health card online?
Unfortunately, you cannot renew your MSI health card online at this time. You will need to complete the renewal form above or call the MSI office.
What is MSI's phone number?
If you need to contact MSI, you can do so by phone or by email. The phone number for MSI is:
- Toll-free phone: 1-800-563-8880 (in Canada)
- Phone: 902-496-7008
A representative will be available to assist you Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. If you would prefer to email them instead, you can email them at [email protected].
