Private Health Insurance in Quebec

[Patientman]

Hello, I was researching if it is possible to substitute the government health insurance (Free) with a private health insurance (paid) that could provide me with immediate access to doctors and private hospital rooms along with other premium benefits (e.g. pregnancy, etc.). I researched online and couldn't find anything as such actually existing! I am expected to land in Quebec this summer. Please advise.

 

[scylla]

Private health insurance policies in Canada are designed to enhance (rather than replace) government health insurance. Having additional private health insurance on top of government health insurance won't expedite your access to care - but instead may cover costs (e.g. private room at a hospital) that would normally be paid by you.

Note that you can only get private coverage for pregnancy related health costs if you purchased the health insurance at least 10 months before you give birth (i.e. before you are pregnant). If you are already pregnant, you won't be able to get private coverage.

 

[goldenbrown]

Private health coverage from pregnancies is available- what it will cover will depend on whether or not the person is pregnant at the moment. If not private coverage would cover up to $10,000 in pregnancy related costs (delivery, prenatal care, emergency situations).

There's more information available in an article:

https://arbetovinsurance.com/2014/10/01/the-ultimate-guide-to-pregnancy-insurance/

 

[nyctomtl]

The RAMQ website says private health insurance is available during the 3 month waiting period and it gives links to providers (insurance companies). However, as expected, these sites are indecipherable. Does anyone have a recommendation for private insurance during the three month waiting period? Just to be clear, I am not asking about pregnancy per se. I want to have basic RAMQ-style coverage so that I can see a doctor if needed during my waiting period. Thanks!

 

[scylla]

The RAMQ website says private health insurance is available during the 3 month waiting period and it gives links to providers (insurance companies). However, as expected, these sites are indecipherable. Does anyone have a recommendation for private insurance during the three month waiting period? Just to be clear, I am not asking about pregnancy per se. I want to have basic RAMQ-style coverage so that I can see a doctor if needed during my waiting period. Thanks!

FYI - private insurance typically only covers emergencies and does not provide nearly the same coverage as RAMQ. It typically won't cover non-emergency doctor visits (e.g. if you have a cold).