Newfoundland and Labrador can be a new and exciting place for many people, but its healthcare similar should be quite familiar to those from elsewhere in Canada. Once you get oriented, it will be easy to find the healthcare you and your family needs. Let Novus show you around the Newfoundland and Labrador healthcare system.
Administration
Healthcare in Newfoundland and Labrador is administered by Newfoundland & Labrador Department of Health and Community Services. The department is responsible for leadership in health and community services programs and policy development for the province, in addition to overseeing the administration of healthcare services in Newfoundland and Labrador. With respect to the province’s public insurance health program, there are three components: the Medical Care Plan, the Dental Health Plan and the Hospital Insurance Plan.
The Medical Care Plan (MCP)
The Medical Care Plan (MCP) is Newfoundland and Labrador’s provincial health care plan, guaranteeing universal access to medically necessary hospital and medical services. In general, to be eligible you must be a Canadian citizen or landed immigrant and live in Newfoundland for at least four months out of each year.
Certain non-medically necessary procedures are excluded from MCP, such as general dental care. Medication is also not covered under the MCP as drug costs fall under different programs.
The MCP’s coverage extends outside of Newfoundland and Labrador, including while you are abroad. However, be aware that coverage outside of Canada is only provided up to the amount of equivalent service in Canada, or what is billed, whichever is less. As medical expenses outside of Canada can be significantly more expensive, you may be left with a large bill. When travelling abroad, always keep medical travel insurance in mind!
The Hospital Insurance Plan
The Hospital Insurance Plan provides coverage to qualified Newfoundlanders for most hospital in-patient and out-patient services, provided that they have been recommended by a doctor. Rehabilitation services from allied health professionals are also covered under this plan. In-patient drugs are covered, but out-patient drugs are not, with certain exceptions.
The Newfoundland and Labrador Prescription Drug Program
The Newfoundland and Labrador Prescription Drug Program provides assistance in the purchase of medication and related medical supplies to residents who qualify for benefit coverage. This program targets low-income residents, seniors, or people with specific diseases.
Newfoundland and Labrador HealthLine
HealthLine is a nurse telephone advice and health information service available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. To access HealthLine, dial toll-free 811 within Newfoundland and Labrador, or visit this website.
Other Services
Newfoundland and Labrador’s healthcare services are very sophisticated, offering a wide array of assistance options and plans suitable for you. While we have not had an opportunity to touch on everything in this high-level introduction, examples of services include palliative care, cancer care, mental health care, eldercare and disability support, and more.
Novus is at your side, helping you learn more about how you can find the best care for you and your family. We wish you the best of health!
For more insight, check out these health articles.
