What is Alberta Blue Cross health insurance and how does it work?

Alberta Blue Cross is one of the largest insurance companies in the province of Alberta, providing supplementary health insurance for residents. It supplements the basic government program AHCIP (Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan), covering expenses not covered by the government: medications, dentistry, eye and orthopedic services, psychological assistance, and more. Let's take a closer look at how it works and how much it costs.

What is Alberta Blue Cross?

Key features:

  • Independent organization: Operating since 1948, administers public and private programs.
  • Supplements AHCIP: Covers expenses not funded by the province (e.g., most prescription drugs).
  • Flexible plans: For individuals, families, students, seniors, and businesses.
  • Direct billing: Many clinics and pharmacies bill Alberta Blue Cross directly.

Types of insurance

1. Government programs (Non-Group Coverage)

For Alberta residents who do not have employment insurance:

  • Coverage: Medications, diabetes supplies, prosthetic devices, psychological services.
  • Cost:
Type Monthly payment (2024)
Individual $63.50
Family $118.00
  • Subsidies: For incomes below $20,970 (individuals) or $39,250 (families with children), the payment is reduced by 30–50%.

2. Private plans

For those who want extended coverage:

  • Young Adult (18–29 years old): From $21.27/month (basic level) to $58.61 (premium).
  • Blue Choice: Includes dental, massage, and travel. Cost: from $57.60/month for ages 21–34.
  • Blue Assured: Guaranteed approval without a medical exam. Prices start at $11.45/month.

3. Travel insurance

  • Emergency medical assistance: Up to $5 million for treatment abroad.
  • Cost: From $2–5 CAD/day depending on duration and age.

What is covered?

Basic services (based on Non-Group Coverage):

  • Medications: 70% of the cost, maximum $25/prescription.
  • Diabetes supplies: Up to $2,400/year (no deductible).
  • Ambulance: Transportation to the hospital.
  • Psychologist: $60/visit (maximum $300/year).

Additional private plans:

  • Dentistry: Cleaning, fillings, orthodontics (up to $2,000 lifetime).
  • Eye care: $150/2 years for glasses and exams.
  • Massage, physical therapy: Up to $750/year.

Is it expensive?

Cost examples:

Category Minimum price Maximum price
Individual plan $11.45/month $120.20/month

| Family plan | $44.45/month | $262.60/month |

Factors affecting price:

  1. Age: For example, rates are 20–40% higher for people aged 55–64.
  2. Level of coverage: Basic plans are cheaper but have limitations.
  3. Subsidies: Low-income individuals may be eligible for discounts of up to 50%.

How to apply?

  1. Government programs:
  • Fill out the application and send it to AHCIP.
  • Insurance will take effect in 3–4 months.
  1. Private plans:
  • Choose a plan on the website or through a broker.
  • Pay by credit card or direct debit.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Extensive coverage: From medication to travel.
  • Flexibility: You can change plans as your life circumstances change.
  • Subsidies: Assistance for low-income individuals.

Cons:

  • Waiting periods: Up to 4 months for government programs.
  • Limits: Annual maximums (e.g., $5,000 for medical services).

Conclusion

Alberta Blue Cross is an affordable way to get additional health insurance. The cost depends on age, coverage level, and income, but even basic plans (starting at $11/month) significantly reduce the financial burden. To save money, consider subsidized programs and compare plans on the official website.