Best Health Insurance Ontario Plans for 2024

Did you know that over 30% of medical costs in Ontario are not covered by the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP)? Most families pay this out of their pocket leaving them with a huge financial burden. That's why it's essential to have 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 OHIP.

But which is the best Ontario health insurance for you? In this guide, we take you through the best private insurance in Ontario, its coverage, pros and cons, prices, how to get the OHIP card and get covered, and how to get the cheapest health insurance Ontario plan. You can also compare plans and get quotes using our free comparator at the top of this page.

Top 2024 best Ontario Health insurance plans

Sun Life health insurance: Hassle-free policy access

Sun Life offers three plans, 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 for hands-on access to claims and benefits information.

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 OHIP, AHCIP in Alberta, MSP in BC, and drug coverage.

Note that you must have provincial or territorial healthcare and drug coverage to apply for personal health insurance Ontario plans.

If you would like to explore further and get a Sun Life Health Insurance Ontario quote that is personalized to meet your unique needs, you can do so below and get results in a few moments.

Blue Cross health insurance: The most flexible choice

The Canadian Association of Blue Cross is a federation of non-profit insurance providers operating across Canada since 1938. Blue Cross Canada collectively insures over 7 million Canadians under their federally licensed coverage.

Ontario Blue Cross offers three primary Blue Cross Health plans namely Entry, Essential, and Enhanced, with 60%, 70%, and 80% coverage, respectively. Drug benefits, dental benefits, critical illness, hospital cash, and assured access can be added as optional add-ons essentially letting you tailor your coverage based on your unique needs.

Blue Cross health insurance also provides comprehensive coverage for various health practitioners, including dietitians, therapists, audiologists, and more. Additionally, their plans offer internet-based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to support mental health.

You can find the detailed coverage under each plan right here.

If you would like to explore further and get a Blue Cross Health Insurance Ontario quote that is personalized to meet your unique needs, you can do it right here.

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 needs.

They have a comprehensive online portal, My GMS, for easy access to your benefit information and claims process. Their travel plans for certain policies automatically add COVID-19 treatment coverage, unlike some other health insurance companies in Ontario.

GMS health insurance Canada is for you if you do not have health benefits through your employer, starting your own business, or would like additional benefits not offered by your employer’s or province’s coverage.

If you think GMS is the right fit for you or would like to give it a try, you can now get GMS Health Insurance Ontario quotes and get a policy that suits your unique needs and budget the best.

Manulife health insurance: The most comprehensive options

Manulife Health Insurance Ontario offers many comprehensive healthcare coverage plans - whether you are looking for dental benefits, drug benefits, or a combination, you will be able to find a personal health insurance Ontario plan that works for your unique 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 helping you earn rewards and save on costs.

Manulife Ontario health insurance is a choice for you if you do not have healthcare benefits through your employer, you are losing group coverage, or if you would like additional benefits not offered by your employer’s or province’s coverage.

If you would like to explore further and get a Manulife health and dental insurance Ontario quote that is personalized to meet your unique needs, you can do so below and get results in a few moments.

Green Shield Canada health insurance: Extensive options for every budget

Green Shield Canada, also known as simply GSC, is a non-profit provider and is often considered one of the best health insurance companies in Ontario. 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 a medical questionnaire for its basic health insurance Ontario plans.

If you would like to explore further and get accurate GSC quotes that are personalized to meet your unique needs, you can do so below and get results in a few moments.

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 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, and dental in order to save money. Compared to competitors, Desjardins health and dental insurance Ontario 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 Association, 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.

If you do not have health benefits through your employer, you are losing your group coverage, or would like to mix and match prescription and dental coverage, this provider is a choice. 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 over 12 million clients. It offers a variety of plans, with differing levels of coverage, including prescription drugs, dental care, and vision care.

They have comprehensive optional add-ons for you to further personalize your health plan. They also offer a 10-day look-and-see period where you can cancel your policy with no penalty.

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 OHIP or the MSP in BC or AHCIP in Alberta.

We recommend that you compare multiple policies before zeroing in on one so you can get the best and cheapest health insurance Ontario plan. While it may seem daunting, we've made it simple for you. Use our comparator below to compare coverages, and pricing, and get free personalized quotes from the best private health insurance Ontario companies.

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How does health insurance work in Ontario?

In Ontario, healthcare costs are covered by a mixture of universal public insurance known as OHIP and private insurance from providers like Manulife, Sun Life, GSC, GMS, CAA, Canada Life, or Blue Cross.

Individual health insurance helps pay medical expenses incurred from illness or injury. It can also cover some everyday medical costs like dental, vision, and prescriptions. On top of access to universal public health insurance through Ontario’s OHIP, one may obtain additional health insurance through one’s employer or buy it independently. Read the Ontario health insurance coverage document list shared in the sections below for the full list of services.

Concerning health care for Indigenous peoples, including First Nations, Inuit, and Métis, the federal, provincial, and territorial levels of government share jurisdiction. The Canadian health system allows Indigenous peoples to access health services. Indigenous Services Canada directly provides services for First Nations and Inuit that supplement the health coverage provided by the government, including coverage such as primary health care.

What is the Ontario Health Insurance Plan?

OHIP, or the Ontario Health Insurance Plan, is Ontario’s public healthcare program or policy. It covers many emergency and preventative medical care costs. It is funded through payroll deduction taxes and transfer payments from the federal government.

Many people are aware of the basics covered by OHIP, such as doctor visits and emergency health care. However, costs that are not covered can sometimes cause confusion, frustration, and surprise expenses.

You will need a supplemental, private health insurance plan for full comprehensive healthcare coverage beyond what the provincial OHIP covers for you.

Think a private health insurance place is the right move for you and your family? You can get started shopping with our free and anonymous health insurance comparison tool at the top of this page. Get personalized quotes in just seconds. No email is required to get started comparing quotes because all you need to do is just use our comparator at the top of this page.

Who is eligible for OHIP?

For OHIP eligibility, you must be included in one of the following categories:

• You are a Canadian citizen, or permanent resident or are registered as an Indian under the Indian Act.
• You have submitted an application for permanent residence in Canada, and Citizenship and Immigration in Canada has confirmed that you meet the OHIP eligibility requirements to apply for permanent residence.
• You are a “protected person” such as a refugee or a person in need of protection.

Additionally, you must be in Ontario for at least 153 days of the first 183 days immediately following the date you established residence in Ontario. You also need to be sure you are in Ontario for at least 153 days in any 12-month period.

But is there health insurance for new immigrants in Ontario? New immigrants to Ontario are eligible for the province's healthcare coverage under the government's public program OHIP. To apply for OHIP, immigrants must meet certain residency requirements and provide proof of immigration status.

The coverage typically starts three months after the date of arrival in Ontario, so new immigrants may consider purchasing private healthcare plans to bridge the gap in coverage during this waiting period.

What does the OHIP cover?

OHIP provides vital medical services encompassing doctor visits, hospital care, diagnostic tests, and more, all without upfront payment. It's important to know that the coverage has limitations, much like public health care programs in other provinces like the MSP in BC. Certain treatments, prescription drugs, and non-urgent procedures may not be included.

Covered by OHIP	Not Covered by OHIP
Doctor visits	Prescription drugs
Hospital visits and stays	Alternative medicine consultation treatments (e.g., Chinese medicine, homeopathy)
Medical or surgical abortions	Chiropractic services
Eligible dental surgery	Many birth control methods
Eligible eye-health/optometry services	Dental services provided in a dentist's office
Ambulance services	Eyeglasses, contact lenses
Travel for health services if you live in Northern Ontario	Laser eye surgery
Blood tests (when medically necessary)	Cosmetic procedures and many dermatology services
Travel for health services if you live in Northern Ontario	Immunisations for travel (Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Twinrix, HPV)

Here is the full Ontario health insurance coverage document list:

As we've just shown, OHIP doesn't cover all medical expenses. For better coverage, it is advised to purchase an individual health insurance plan. Use our free comparison tool below and get free personalized quotes for the best health insurance Ontario plans.

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Is OHIP providing health insurance for visitors?

The government or provincial OHIP is primarily designed to provide healthcare coverage to eligible Ontario residents. Visitors to Ontario, including tourists and short-term visitors, are generally not eligible for OHIP coverage. This means that visitors are expected to have their own private travel healthcare plan to cover medical expenses while in Ontario. There is Ontario health insurance for visitors plans from several providers tailored to serve unique needs.

For visitors to Ontario, it's essential to arrange for appropriate travel health insurance Ontario before arriving. Ontario travel health insurance can cover medical emergencies, hospitalizations, and other healthcare needs during your stay in the province. It's recommended to explore different visitor health insurance Ontario options and choose a plan that suits your needs to ensure you have access to medical care without financial worries during your visit.

Health insurance Ontario for visitors typically covers emergency medical expenses, hospitalization, doctor's fees, and prescription drugs, providing financial protection in case of unexpected medical issues during their stay. For affordable health insurance Ontario plans, look for bundling discounts.

Are international students covered by OHIP?

International students studying in Ontario on a study permit are generally not eligible for OHIP coverage. International students staying in the province for six months or longer are required to have private health insurance to cover their medical needs during their stay in Canada. In essence, there is no free health insurance for students in Ontario coming from other countries.

Many post-secondary institutions in Ontario however offer healthcare plans and coverage options tailored for international students. These plans typically cover medical services, prescription drugs, emergency medical expenses, and other essential healthcare needs.

Alternatively, students can also purchase international student health insurance Ontario plans from various private providers or Ontario travel health insurance for temporary stays. There are specific policies for international students to cater to their needs.

However, unlike health insurance for international students in Ontario, other provinces in the country have different rules and coverage limits. For example, some provinces like British Columbia, Manitoba, and Quebec offer provincial health insurance for international students, but eligibility and coverage may vary.

How is public health insurance for seniors in Ontario?

All OHIP-insured seniors aged 65 years and over, automatically qualify for the Ontario Drug Benefit Program (ODB), commonly referred to as the ODB program. This program provides seniors with expanded coverage to ensure they have access to the healthcare they need.

Additional healthcare for seniors in Ontario benefits include:

• Coverage for visits to the optometrist every two years
• Coverage for most prescription medications

Seniors may see significant changes in their ability to afford supplemental health insurance after retiring due to factors like a loss of employer-sponsored benefits and higher healthcare costs due to the increased risk of chronic illnesses. This can make it difficult for seniors to cover their medical expenses without an Ontario private health insurance plan.

But how to get the best health insurance for seniors in Ontario? We've got you covered. Check out our comparator for senior health insurance Ontario plans and start protecting the elders in your family now. They might be asked to fill in a medical questionnaire to check for pre-existing conditions before deciding on the premium for the extended health insurance Ontario plan.

Does OHIP cover health insurance for retirees in Ontario?

OHIP covers essential medical services for all eligible Ontario residents, including retirees. However, as mentioned before, OHIP does not provide comprehensive coverage for services like prescription drugs, dental care, and vision care. Retirees, like most others, need to supplement their OHIP coverage with private health insurance plans or rely on retiree benefits from former employers for additional healthcare services.

Does OHIP cover out-of-country health insurance?

OHIP provides limited coverage for emergency medical services obtained outside of Canada. OHIP may partially cover eligible emergency medical expenses while traveling abroad, but the coverage is typically limited and may not cover the full cost of medical care received outside the country.

Travelers are strongly encouraged to obtain additional travel insurance to ensure adequate coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other travel-related incidents when outside of Canada.

What does private health insurance in Ontario cover?

Private healthcare plans in Ontario have extensive coverage and make up for the services not covered by OHIP. However, the plans differ in terms of coverage and benefits, as they are offered by different insurance providers with varying plan options.

However, here's a general overview of what private health insurance plans in Ontario might cover:

• Prescription Drugs: Private plans can cover the cost of prescription medications not covered by the OHIP. This includes medications taken outside of hospital settings.
• Dental Services: Private dental insurance may cover routine dental check-ups, cleanings, fillings, and other dental procedures.
• Vision Care: Coverage for eye exams, prescription glasses, contact lenses, and even corrective eye surgeries like LASIK might be included.
• Paramedical Services: Coverage for services provided by healthcare professionals such as chiropractors, physiotherapists, massage therapists, and more.
• Medical Services and Specialists: Some plans may cover expenses for medical services and consultations with specialists that are not covered by public health insurance.
• Medical Equipment and Supplies: Coverage for medical equipment such as crutches, braces, and supplies like diabetic testing strips might be included.
• Travel Insurance: Some best health and dental insurance Ontario plans offer coverage for medical expenses while traveling outside of Ontario or Canada.
• Hospital Stays and Services: Some plans may offer coverage for semi-private or private hospital rooms, as well as other services not covered by OHIP. So before you buy health insurance Ontario plan from a private provider, read the offer documents carefully.

How much is health insurance in Ontario?

The private health insurance Ontario cost varies significantly based on individual circumstances, unique healthcare needs, budget, and more. So factors that may affect premiums of private healthcare plans would primarily include:

• Age
• Gender
• Lifestyle including smoker status
• Pre-existing conditions that may apply
• Specific coverages (dental, prescription drug coverage, etc.)
• Provider (For example, td health insurance ontario premium might be different from a Sun Life plan)

Example of average health insurance cost Ontario plan

What is the private health insurance Ontario cost and coverage you can expect under the aforementioned Sun Life plans?

Health insurance ontario cost -services	Sunlife Basic Plan	Sunlife Enhanced Health Insurance Plan
Monthly Cost	$70.93 a month	$196.20 a month
Drugs	60% up to $750 (Excludes oral contraceptives)	Preventive: 80% up to $750 (starts after 3 months) Restorative: 50% up to $500 (starts after 1 year) Orthodontics: 60% up to $ 1,500-lifetime max (starts after 2 years)
Vision	No coverage	100% up to $300 (starts after 1 year), $50 per eye exam (every 2 years for adults; every year for dependents under 18)
Supplemental health care	60% for medical equipment and services	100% for medical equipment and services
- Paramedical (massage therapists, speech pathologists)	$25 per visit, up to $250	100% up to $400 per practitioner
- Psychologists / Social workers	$35 per visit, up to $500	100% up to $1,500
Emergency travel medical coverage	No coverage	Coverage for the first 60 days of your trip (OPTIONAL)
Dental	Preventative: 60% up to $500	Preventive: 80% up to $750 (starts after 3 months) Restorative: 50% up to $500 (starts after 1 year) Orthodontics: 60% up to $ 1,500-lifetime max (starts after 2 years)

It is best to compare prices from multiple insurers. Simply use our comparator and get quotes in no time.

4 tips to buy the cheapest health insurance in Ontario

Here are easy ways to get a cheap health insurance Ontario plan to suit your budget and healthcare needs.

1. Assess Your Needs: Understand your healthcare needs and prioritize essential coverage. Opt for plans that provide the necessary services you require while avoiding unnecessary extras that can increase costs.
2. Compare Plans: Research and compare multiple plans from different providers to get the best individual health insurance plans Ontario region. Use our comparator to quickly compare plans and coverage, and get free quotes for the best plans. Health insurance brokers Ontario usually charge a considerable percentage to get quotes from private companies, but the HelloSafe comparator is entirely free.
3. Consider Higher Deductibles: Opt for the best health insurance Ontario plan with higher deductibles, which can lead to lower monthly premiums. Ensure you can comfortably afford the deductible if you need to make a claim.
4. Bundle Coverage: If you need multiple types of coverage (e.g., health, dental, vision), consider bundling them within the same plan. Many insurers offer discounts for combining different types of coverage. You could also look at family health insurance Ontario plans as they can be cost-effective. We recommend binding the best health and dental insurance Ontario plans to get the cheapest health insurance Ontario deal.

What is an OHIP card?

So how to get health insurance in Ontario? The OHIP card, also known as the Ontario Health Insurance Plan card as mentioned earlier in this article, is a crucial document issued by the government to eligible residents. It provides access to publicly funded healthcare services in Ontario.

Every eligible resident, including Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and protected persons, is entitled to an OHIP card. The card contains a unique 10-digit health number assigned to each individual, allowing them to receive insured health services.

With this OHIP card, residents of the province can visit doctors, specialists, and hospitals without direct payment for most essential medical services. For the card, you must apply and provide the necessary documents to prove Canadian citizenship or immigration status, residency in Ontario, and identity.

How to get an OHIP card?

To get an OHIP card, you must apply by submitting an OHIP application with the appropriate documents. To apply, follow these steps:

1. Go in person to your nearest Service Ontario center
2. Complete a Registration for Ontario Health Coverage (form 0265-82) (You can download the form below)
3. Provide the necessary, original documents proving:
   • Canadian citizenship or OHIP-eligible immigration status
   • Residency in Ontario
   • Your identity

How to renew an OHIP card?

You can do your OHIP renewal free of charge, in person or online. After submitting the documents for your renewal, your card will be mailed to you in approximately 4 to 6 weeks.

To renew your OHIP card online, make sure you have:

• Your most recent health card (OHIP)
• Your current driver’s license (must have current validity)
• Access to download and print your temporary documents

You should be sure to carry the temporary document with you until your new card arrives in the mail. You can renew your card online at services.gov.on.ca.

To renew your card in person, you need:

• Current health card
• Original document that proves Canadian citizenship or eligible immigration status.
• Original printed or digital proof of residency in Ontario or if your Canadian Citizenship or immigration status has changed since receiving your last health card, bring your most recent citizen or immigration document.
• Original document that confirms your identity
• If you are applying under your married name for the first time, you will need to bring a marriage certificate
• OHIP card renewal form below

To switch to a photo health card or apply for a new Ontario health card, you will need to provide 3 original documents: Proof of Canadian citizenship or eligible immigration status, Proof of residency in Ontario with your current address, and Proof of identity with both your name and signature.

No photocopies or online print-outs accepted. Additional documents may be requested. For a full list of accepted documents, you can download the PDF below.

Meanwhile, if you have a lost OHIP card, you must report the loss immediately and it is crucial. You can do this by calling their toll-free number at 1-888-376-5197. Obtain a new card by following the procedure mentioned above.

How to contact OHIP?

For questions regarding coverage, call the OHIP phone number at 1-866-532-3161 or visit your local ServiceOntario Centre. You could also get in touch at the OHIP contact number 1-800-268-1154 for any queries on eligibility, application procedures, and any other questions related to Ontario's health insurance program.

It is advised to have your health card number and other relevant information ready when calling for efficient assistance.

What is covered by small business health insurance Ontario plans?

Small business health insurance in Ontario offers coverage for employees' healthcare needs. It can include extended health care, dental services, vision care, and sometimes employee assistance programs and life/disability insurance. It is essentially offered to provide a holistic working experience and benefits by employers for their employees.

Small business plans from health insurance companies Ontario typically include:

• Extended health care: Prescription drugs, paramedical services, equipment
• Dental services: Check-ups, cleanings, fillings, treatments
• Vision care
• Employee assistance programs
• Life and disability insurance
• Travel coverage
• Critical illness coverage