As of January 1, 2020, OHIP no longer covers any portion of out-of-country medical expenses. This change means that it is even more important that travellers ensure they are protected from the unexpected costs of travel and medical emergencies, regardless of their destination.
“CAA Niagara has always kept its Members and the community well informed when it comes to the level of protection their travel insurance provides,” said Daniela Escobar, Insurance Product Specialist.” Today is an important day with the changes in coverage by OHIP; no longer will the government health plan cover any expenses incurred while travelling outside the country.”
Whether you're planning to travel outside of Canada for work or leisure, it's strongly recommended to educate yourself on the newly imposed policy, to purchase Travel Insurance, and to fully understand what the policy covers.
Does OHIP cover me for medical expenses when I travel outside of Canada?
Starting, January 1, 2020, OHIP will no longer provide any medical coverage for any claims made on or after this date.
See the outline below of the OHIP differences between out-of-country coverage prior to, and after, January 2, 2020.
| Before January 1, 2020 | After January 1, 2020 |
| Doctor's services: OHIP covers amount billed by doctor who treated you outside of Canada or according to the rate paid to Ontario physicians (whichever is less) | Doctor's services: no coverage |
| Emergency outpatient services: Up to $50 CAD per day or the amount billed by the hospital outside of Canada (whichever is less) | Emergency outpatient services: no coverage |
| Emergency inpatient services: up to $400 CAD per day for services in: an operating room; a coronary care unit; an intensive care unit; a neonatal or pediatric special care unit; or $200 CAD per day for lower levels of care | Emergency inpatient services: no coverage |
Does OHIP cover me if I travel within Canada?
This change does not affect inter-provincial travel. Ontario residents with a valid OHIP card will continue to receive coverage for physician and hospital services when visiting or moving to another province or territory. However, not all medical expenses incurred while travelling within Canada, like ground or air ambulance, are covered by the province.
Will the changes to OHIP impact my current Travel Insurance? Does the change affect my coverage?
No, your travel medical insurance coverage won't be impact by this change.
What can I do to ensure that I've got adequate coverage when travelling outside of Canada?
Take a look at the travel medical insurance coverage you have and research and review coverage options. It’s important to understand the types of coverage available and thoroughly review policies to understand its
coverage. And, talk to a travel insurance professional to ask questions about coverage options and for help with understanding your travel insurance policy.
When making travel plans, build in time to look at your travel medical insurance coverage to determine if it meets your travel needs and protects every traveller on your trip.
For more information or to purchase travel insurance, visit CAA Travel Insurance online at caaniagara.ca/insurance/travel or visit any CAA Niagara location.
The government has listed changes to services on its website. Click here for details.
CAA Travel Insurance is underwritten by Orion Travel Insurance Company, a CAA Company. Certain exclusions, limitations and restrictions apply. A Medical Questionnaire may be required. ™You take on the world, we’ll take care of the rest is a trademark of Orion Travel Insurance Company.
Ontario