Top 5 misconceptions about private health insurance coverage in Ontario

Private health insurance coverage is a topic that creates a lot of confusion for Canadians. With so much information available about OHIP, group health insurance and private health insurance, it’s no surprise that misconceptions exist.

Here are five of the most common misconceptions about private health insurance.

1. I have OHIP, so I don’t need private health insurance

The amount of coverage provided by the provincial government health care plan has its limits. Depending on your health care needs, you will likely need to pay out of pocket for prescription drugs, dental care, various forms of therapy and rehabilitation services, medical equipment and more. In addition, the government can change what is and is not covered at any time. A service that is covered today might not be covered in the future, and insurance companies generally react to changes in government coverage policies very quickly.

Most notably, prescription drugs, dental care, ambulance transportation, registered therapists, medical equipment and vision care for adults 18 to 64 years of age are not covered by government insurance plans in Canada. Private health insurance ensures you don't pay out of pocket for medical care that OHIP does not cover.

2. I am healthy, so I don't need private health insurance

Although older people and individuals with chronic conditions will likely have expenses that cost more than what OHIP covers, everyone – even young and healthy people – could develop a serious illness, get injured or have an accident.

Private health insurance coverage protects you from the financial burden of the medical care you need. You shouldn’t need to worry about how you are going to pay for medication and treatment, and health insurance gives you peace of mind in knowing you are covered.

3. I can’t afford private health insurance

Cost is always a consideration when people explore their health care options. What many people don't realize is that they do have options. Depending on your relative health and age, you can choose the supplementary health insurance plan that meets your current health care and lifestyle needs, providing you with affordable health and dental insurance options to help cover what OHIP does not.

4. Money used for insurance premiums is better used elsewhere

All it takes is a serious illness, injury or the need for prescription drugs to make health insurance a worthy investment.

5. I don’t need private health insurance until I am older

You are never too young to get health insurance coverage. However, many Canadians wait until they are older to explore their options. With the cost of health care and prescription drugs rising and with fewer employers offering group insurance coverage, buying a private health insurance plan when you are younger will save you money on the cost of the premium and ensure you have access to the medical care you need, when you need it.

Now is the best time to explore your health insurance options. Blue Cross is a private health insurance provider in Ontario that offers personalized coverage options.

Get a free quote for affordable health insurance in Ontario today.