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Our history

For over 80 years, Ontario Blue Cross has been providing exceptional care to individuals.

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With our social mission in mind, Blue Cross has been a steadfast supporter of community initiatives since its inception.

The rich history and extensive expertise of Ontario Blue Cross have consistently positioned us as a reliable partner in health care, travel insurance, and life insurance. Beyond a symbol, we provide unparalleled support and assistance to our valued customers, dedicated employees, and trusted partners worldwide. At the core of our priorities lies human connections, as we strive to unite people in serving communities.
Learn more about our community involvment Read ou 2025 Philanthropic Impact Report

Origins of Blue Cross

Putting the needs of the community first


In 1929, a group of Texas teachers embarked on a remarkable social experiment. They willingly contributed a modest fee per semester to access 21 days of healthcare at a university hospital. This ground-breaking initiative, known as Blue Cross, gained swift popularity.

The iconic blue cross symbol made its debut in North America in 1934, capturing attention and intrigue. Over the course of the 1930s and 1940s, the movement rapidly expanded, spanning across the United States and Canada.
Illustrated hospital service poster featuring a blue cross and the words “Hospital Service pays your hospital bills”
Collection of historical Blue Cross documents about hospital services and coverage

The objective was clear: providing affordable, high-quality care for the population.


In 1941, the Ontario Association of Hospitals secured a $15,000 loan to establish the Blue Cross Plan, offering coverage for hospital care. Around the same time, during the early 1940s, a group of 16 Quebec doctors and businessmen came together to found an association that proposed innovative plans to assist with hospital expenses. These plans drew inspiration from the renowned American Blue Cross model.

In 1941

The Blue Cross Plan was founded in Ontario

Initially focusing on hospitalizations, health insurance gradually expanded to include physician visits and prescription drugs. Hospitals, including future university hospitals, had the opportunity to enhance their services, drive innovation, and foster collaboration with Blue Cross Plans at the national level.

 

In 1957, new laws in Ontario and Quebec introduced universal health care and drug coverage. With the aim of alleviating strain on the hospital network, Blue Cross developed supplementary and advantageous offerings to cater to the growing healthcare needs of countless citizens.

Your Partner for All Trips

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In the mid-1970s, air travel became more affordable, and tourism became more common. Vacationers discovered there are risks associated with travel. Blue Cross launched its first travel insurance policy in 1977 to cover emergency medical expenses abroad.

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With its experience and reputation, Blue Cross created its travel assistance subsidiary in 1989. A leader in its field, our travel assistance offers an international service that is accessible from anywhere in the world.

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Our Flight Delay Service was introduced in 2018, allowing travellers to receive compensation based on the length of the delay. This would give them access to an airport lounge or a hotel room.

Logo Blue Cross Ontario

Blue Cross, a recognized symbol

With one insured person out of three in North America, Blue Cross boasts an impressive reputation! According to Leger's 2015 ratings of top Canadian companies, it secured the top position as the premier healthcare provider. In Canada, it stands tall among the top three most esteemed brands.

Blue Cross is now a nationwide brand, marketed across all provinces through extensive Blue Cross plan networks coordinated by the Canadian Association of Blue Cross Plans.