Structurally, the New Brunswick health care system is no different from the systems found in any of Canada’s other provinces. Once you’ve been introduced to its core elements, you’ll have no trouble finding the right type of care for you and your family. Today, let Novus be your guide!
Administration
Healthcare in New Brunswick is administered by the New Brunswick Department of Health. The responsibilities of the department include the oversight and general administration of healthcare programs and initiatives in New Brunswick.
New Brunswick Medicare
Medicare is New Brunswick’s provincial health care plan, providing coverage for the cost of medically necessary hospital and medical services. In general, to be eligible you must be a Canadian citizen or landed immigrant who has made New Brunswick their permanent and principle home. There are no fees or deductibles associated with Medicare.
There are certain exceptions to the coverage offered by Medicare, particularly procedures that are not medically necessary. Some examples include cosmetic procedures, dental care, cost of eyeglasses, and alternative health services.
Medicare provides coverage outside of New Brunswick, including while you are abroad. Within Canada, you can simply show your Medicare card to have costs billed to Medicare. Out of Canada, 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, you may be left with a large difference to pay. When travelling abroad, always be equipped with medical travel insurance!
The New Brunswick Prescription Drug Program
While drugs administered to hospital inpatients are covered by Medicare, others are not. To assist in the purchase of medication and related medical supplies, certain residents of New Brunswick who are eligible for coverage under Medicare may also receive full or partial coverage for their prescription drug costs under one of several drug plans administered by the New Brunswick Prescription Drug Program. Each eligible family is only responsible for prescription drug costs up to a calculated ceiling per year, after which the drug program will cover remaining costs.
New Brunswick Tele-Care
Tele-Care is a nurse telephone advice and health information service available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. To access Tele-Care, dial toll-free 811 within New Brunswick, or visit this website.
Other Services
In addition to what we’ve discussed, New Brunswick also offers a plethora of other healthcare services and assistance plans. These include specialized cancer care, mental health care, palliative care, workplace injury assistance and more.
To find out all you need to know about New Brunswick’s healthcare system, Novus is here for you as an excellent resource. We wish you the best of health!
For more insight, check out these health articles.
