Healthcare
Canada — Healthcare: Private Insurance
Private health insurance is commonly used in Canada for services not covered by public healthcare plans, and for temporary residents who may not qualify for provincial coverage. It commonly supplements publicly funded healthcare rather than replacing it.
VerifiedGovernment / official sourceGovernment of Canada — Health Care SystemLast reviewed: 2026-07-17
Key facts
- Private insurance commonly supplements, rather than replaces, publicly funded healthcare coverage.
- Commonly insured services include prescription drugs, dental care, vision care, travel medical coverage, and extended health benefits.
- Temporary residents who don't yet qualify for provincial coverage often rely on private insurance in the interim.