This page is intended to provide self
employed individuals in Canada with general information pertaining
to self employed health insurance. |
Even though all citizens of Canada are provided with access to medical
care by the Canadian government’s federal and/or provincial programs,
these programs do not provide coverage for every health condition or situation.
Many individuals receive group health insurance coverage through their
employer, but for those who are self employed, the bonus of health insurance
becomes their responsibility. Obtaining supplemental self employed health
insurance ensures that you are covered for the medical care and services
that are not included in the federal and provincial plans. Self employed
persons should determine what is covered by their government plans, what
is not, and what coverage is currently needed or might be needed in the
future.
 Why do
I need supplemental self employed health insurance?
The purchase of a supplemental self employed health insurance plan can
provide coverage for medical care and services that are not completely
covered by the federal/provincial programs, such as a private room in
the event of hospitalization, preventative care, private nursing care,
and cosmetic surgery. Supplemental health plans also offer coverage for
prescription drugs, prescription eye glasses/contacts, laser eye surgery,
comprehensive dental coverage, as well as professional treatment by chiropractors,
massage therapists, psychologists, podiatrists, plastic surgeons, and
other types of specialists.
When shopping for self employed health insurance, asking the right questions
will ensure that you get the coverage you need at a price you can afford.
Below are some pertinent questions you should ask a potential insurance
provider:
- Will I be required to undergo a medical exam prior to being approved
for coverage, and if so, what types of examinations will I have to undergo?
- Is coverage effective immediately upon approval of the application?
- Does the plan cover pre-existing conditions, and what is considered
to be an existing condition?
- What is covered under the plan and what is excluded?
- How does the plan’s coverage differ from the government plan?
- Does the plan cover visits to specialists or special procedures?
- Does the plan cover prescription eye glasses/contacts and dental care?
- What type of prescription drug coverage is provided by the plan?
- How do I file a claim, and how and when do I receive reimbursement
for claims?
- What will be the monthly cost of the plan, and what methods of payment
are accepted?
- What happens if I accidentally miss a payment?
- Will my premiums increase as I get older or if particular health issues
arise?
- Is there a deductible that applies to the plan, and if so, how much
is it?
Although you may deem researching and obtaining self employed health
insurance tedious and time-consuming, proper coverage for your particular
self-employed situation is important for your health, your well-being,
and your finances. Unexpected illness or injury can result in significantly
high expenses that could leave you with financial concerns. While supplemental
health insurance typically requires your budget to include an additional
monthly payment, the advantages far outweigh the costs.
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