GHIP
Provincial and Territorial Government Health and Dental Insurance Plans (GHIP)
A comprehensive guide to Canada's health care system and resources to help you.
GHIP
Understanding What Your Provincial Health Plan Actually Covers
Every Canadian province and territory offers government health insurance (GHIP) that covers essential medical services-doctor visits, hospital stays, surgeries, and emergency care-at no direct cost to residents.
However, what many Canadians don't realize is that provincial plans have significant gaps. Most don't cover prescription drugs, dental care, vision care, paramedical services (physio, massage, chiro), or prescription eyeglasses. Coverage varies widely between provinces-some offer limited drug coverage for seniors or low-income families, while others provide virtually none.
That's why over 67% of Canadians carry private health insurance to fill these coverage gaps. Our licensed advisors help you understand exactly what your provincial plan covers and find affordable private insurance to protect you from out-of-pocket costs.
GHIP
Compare Provincial Health Coverage by Province
Each province and territory has different health coverage rules-from what prescription drugs are covered, to dental benefits for children, to physiotherapy limits. Click your province below to see exactly what your government health plan covers (and what it doesn't).
We've researched Alberta Health (AHCIP), BC Medical Services Plan (MSP), OHIP, Saskatchewan Health, Quebec's RAMQ, and every other provincial plan so you don't have to. Understanding these gaps is the first step to finding affordable private insurance that fits your needs.
Private Health Insurance
Why 10,000+ Canadian Families Choose Private Insurance to Extend Provincial Coverage
Provincial health plans are excellent for hospital care and doctor visits, but they leave Canadians paying out-of-pocket for prescriptions, dental work, glasses, physio, and more. Here's how private health insurance protects your family from unexpected costs.
Cover Prescriptions, Dental & Vision
Average Canadian families spend $1,200-$3,000/year on prescriptions, dental cleanings, and glasses-none covered by provincial plans. Private insurance covers 80-100% of these costs, saving you thousands annually. Plans start as low as $100/month for a family.
Access Paramedical Services Without the Cost
Need physiotherapy after an injury? Massage therapy for chronic pain? Provincial plans typically cover none of these services. Private insurance provides $500-$1,500 per year for physio, chiropractic, massage, and more-helping you recover faster without breaking the bank.
Protect Your Family from Medical Emergencies Abroad
Provincial health plans provide little to no coverage outside Canada-a hospital visit in the U.S. can cost $50,000+. Private plans include travel medical insurance up to $5-10 million, plus emergency dental coverage, ambulance services, and prescription drug protection when you're away from home.
Free quotes from Alberta Blue Cross, Manulife, Sun Life & Canada Life.
No commitment required. See FAQs
Get a Free Quote in 3 Minutes
Compare personalized quotes from Canada's top insurers. Licensed advisors available to help. No pressure, no obligation-just honest advice and better coverage.
Trusted by 10,000+ Canadian families.