For people who live in Alberta, the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) covers many things like doctor visits, medical tests and hospital stays. But it doesn’t cover all medical costs.
That’s why it’s good to have additional health insurance to help pay for:
- Prescription drugs
- Eyeglasses
- Dental care
- Medical supplies and equipment
- Ambulance trips
Insurance plans are all different and may not cover the same things. Understand what different plans cover so you can choose the plan that is right for you. Some people may have more than one insurance plan to cover their costs.
If you don’t have insurance coverage for medical supplies and equipment, Alberta Aids to Daily Living (AADL) program may cover some of these costs.
Where do I get health insurance?
You may be able to get health insurance through:
- Your parent’s health insurance plan
- The post-secondary school that you attend
- Your employer
- A private insurance company (It’s important to know that private insurance companies will ask about your medical history and they may not provide coverage if you have a pre-existing condition)
- Government of Alberta programs including the:
- Non-Group Coverage Benefit
- Assured Income for the Severely Handicapped (AISH)
- Alberta Adult Health Benefit Program
What do I need to think about when choosing a plan?
- What medical costs and supplies are covered (such as prescription drugs, medical supplies and equipment, dental care, and eyeglasses)
- If you have to pay each month or year to be part of an insurance plan
- If you have to pay some of the medical costs (for example, 20% for prescription drugs)
- If there is a maximum amount the plan pays for certain medical costs (for example, $200 for eyeglasses every two years)
- If you need a doctor’s note for massage therapy, occupational or physical therapy, or to see a chiropractor or psychologist
- What medical costs are covered if you travel outside of Alberta
- Plan ahead
- Don't wait until you need health insurance to apply for it
- Read the fine print
