INDIVIDUAL PLANS
Hospital Cash Plans
Hospital cash plans or hospital indemnity insurance plans pay you cash (typically
limited to $100 a day) should you be confined to hospital. You may want to use the
cash to pay for everyday living expenses such as baby-sitting and housekeeping
services or for items such as travel to and from the hospital.
The cost of hospital cash plans depends on the rate per day at which you choose
to be reimbursed during your hospital stay. These plans generally exclude the same
claims that are disallowed by extended health plans (see page 9). They may also
limit benefits based on your age.
Insurance for Visitors and Returning Canadians
A few companies sell health care policies for visitors and returning Canadians.
These policies are designed for individuals who are not covered by public health
insurance because they are returning to Canada after a prolonged absence, are
living here temporarily or do not yet qualify for public health insurance coverage.
Visitors and returning Canadians policies typically cover medically necessary
doctors' services, hospital services and supplies.
Many offer coverage on an emergency-only basis. Others include semi-private
hospital accommodation and pay for some additional benefits, such as an
emergency return home if you are completely disabled or die. Treatments for
pre-existing conditions are often excluded.
Disability Insurance
Disability insurance is designed to replace lost income while you are disabled and
unable to earn enough to meet your expenses. You can buy an individual policy
that is tailored to your particular needs.
TIP: Foreign students should check with the registrar of the institution they will be
attending to learn if inexpensive group coverage is available through the school,
college or university
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