What you need to know about medical insurance in Québec
October 3, 2014
As Quebecers, we are fortunate to receive health care coverage through our government health program. We don’t have to worry about paying for basic medical care, doctors’ visits when we fall ill, or emergency care if something unforeseen occurs. However, there are limitations to the amount of coverage that is provided.
Any costs beyond what the Régie de l’assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) covers are an out-of-pocket expense if you do not have private medical insurance or group insurance through your employer.
Why you need private health insurance if you live in Québec
Many Quebecers assume that the RAMQ provides them with adequate coverage. Some think that because they are young and healthy, they don’t need additional health coverage. However, it’s this type of thinking that could find you paying out of pocket for health care. You are better off taking a proactive approach by signing up for additional health insurance now, even if you have a clean bill of health.
Not everyone is fortunate enough to have group insurance through their employer. Whether you are self-employed, retired, or new to Québec, private medical insurance will help cover the costs that are outside the scope of RAMQ coverage.
Medical insurance provides financial security
One of the most overlooked benefits of medical insurance in Québec is the financial security it provides to individuals. There is only so much coverage you will receive from the provincial government, and without a good private health insurance plan, you will have to pay out of pocket for any health care, medication, and treatments that are outside the scope of RAMQ coverage.
For example, physiotherapy treatment is not covered by the RAMQ. And, did you know that the RAMQ does not cover the full cost of ambulance services? Many other types of treatment, such as osteopathy, acupuncture, and chiropractic care are also not covered.
Private health insurance helps to mitigate these costs, providing you with a sense of financial security, something that can also help to improve your quality of life.
Given how flexible and affordable medical insurance is in Québec today, not to mention how easy it is to customize coverage to meet the specific health care needs of you and your family, it’s something that you should at least think about seriously. Considering it costs you nothing to get a quote, it is well worth your time and effort.