Today, let’s take a look at the Manitoba health care system. Once acquainted, you’ll find that many of its components are strikingly similar to that of other Canadian provincial health care systems. The Manitoba healthcare system packs all the offerings you’d expect, like provincial health insurance and drug benefit programs based on eligibility.
Administration
Healthcare in Manitoba is administered by Manitoba Health. This ministry is responsible for the general leadership and administration of healthcare programs in the province, in addition to providing information and navigation assistance for those seeking healthcare in Manitoba.
The Manitoba Health Services Insurance Plan
The Manitoba Health Services Insurance Plan is Manitoba’s provincial health care plan, providing universal coverage for medically necessary hospital and medical services. In general, to be eligible you must be a Canadian citizen or landed immigrant and be present in Manitoba for at least 183 days per calendar year.
Manitoba’s health insurance excludes certain types of care, typically those that are deemed medically unnecessary. Examples of what Manitoba Health does not cover include cosmetic procedures, eye exams for people between 19 and 65, private nursing, or alternative health services.
Manitoba Health coverage extends outside of Manitoba, including while you are abroad. Within Canada, simply show your Manitoba Health card to have costs billed directly to Manitoba Health. Abroad, be aware that coverage is only provided up to the amount of equivalent service in Canada, or what is billed, whichever is less. Since medical costs outside of Canada can be much higher, it’s always a good idea to have medical insurance before you leave. When travelling abroad, medical travel insurance will grant you peace of mind!
The Manitoba Pharmacare Program
The Manitoba Pharmacare program is a drug benefit program that provides subsidizes the purchase of medication and related medical supplies for residents who qualify based on income levels. Based on household net income, each family is only responsible for prescription drug costs up to a calculated deductible per year. Pharmacare will cover the rest.
Manitoba Health Links
Health Links is a nurse telephone advice and health information service available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. To access Health Links, dial toll-free 1-888-315-9257 within Manitoba, or visit this website.
Other Services
Manitoba’s health care system is broad and extensive, offering a great variety of services for you and your family. For the most part, the actual services are delivered through your local regional health authority – one of eleven regional agencies set up by the province to meet the local needs of Manitobans.
You’ve already made the right first step by familiarizing yourself with the system through Novus. To find out all you need to know about healthcare in Manitoba, you’re already in the right place with Novus! We wish you the best of health!
For more insight, check out these health articles.
