Travelling within Canada: Remove the Guesswork From Out-of-Province Health Coverage

Picture this: You are on your dream trip across Canada. You’ve seen the mountains in the west and the rugged coasts of the east. Suddenly, you are hit with an unexpected medical need. You make your way to the nearest medical centre to get the care you need. But a question lingers in your mind: Will I need to pay for this?

You’re right to ask. While coverage is similar from province to province, there are differences to your coverage when you travel outside of your home province. Understanding these differences can help you avoid having to pay unnecessary expenses. In this article, we demystify out-of-province health coverage, so you can know exactly what to expect.

The good news - getting care out of province is easy… though not exactly the same.

If you get sick while travelling within Canada, it's generally pretty easy to receive immediate medical attention without having to foot the bill. This is the result of an Interprovincial Reciprocal Billing Agreement between all provinces and territories, except Quebec. Through the agreement, the host province (that is, where you are travelling) agrees to cover the cost of any medically necessary service provided, and subsequently bill the home province (where you live) for reimbursement.

So, for example, if you’re from Winnipeg, and need medical attention in Fredericton, the province of New Brunswick would provide you the care that you need, and Manitoba would foot the bill.

What is and isn’t covered out of province?

In accordance with the Canada Health Act, you will generally be covered for medically necessary health care services while travelling in Canada. In other words, if you become unexpectedly ill or have an accident in another province, your hospital and physician services will likely be covered. However, additional services, such as an ambulance, hospital transfer, or transportation back to your home province, will not be covered by the provincial health care systems.

The exception of Quebec

Since Quebec did not sign the interprovincial billing agreement, you will likely be charged up front for any medical services you receive there. In most cases, you can submit a claim for reimbursement to your own provincial ministry of health when you get home. Keep in mind that your provincial ministry may require specific documentation like receipts for services.

If you are a resident of Quebec, you will likely be covered for hospital and physician services if you get sick in another province. However, a doctor can ask that you pay up front for care. It is your responsibility to submit your receipts to the Régie upon returning to Quebec, at which time the Régie will reimburse applicable services at Quebec rates. Because the cost of medical services varies from province to province, you may have to pay the difference in cost.

Tips to Make your Out-of-Province Trip a Dream

Carry your Health Card with you at all times: Your health card is your proof that you are insured under a provincial plan—you will need to show it. If you don’t show your card, the doctor's office may ask you to pay up front for the services.

Check your benefits: If you have access to private group insurance (e.g., through your employer), check to find out whether you have coverage through your plan.

Consider purchasing medical insurance: If you want to avoid paying for these services out of pocket, you may want to consider purchasing medical insurance through a private insurance company.

If you do have to pay, keep your receipts: Keep an original copy of the receipt and proof of payment for any out-of-pocket costs. Your province of residence may still be able to reimburse you if you can show the right documentation.

When in doubt, contact your home province: All provinces and territories have their own requirements, so it never hurts to check. For more information on out-of-province coverage, contact your provincial or territorial ministry of health. Or consult Health Canada’s most frequently asked travel health questions.

Travel is an adventure. Your medical coverage shouldn’t be.

Let us give you peace of mind while you enjoy your trip. For more information click here.

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