Is it worth buying private insurance?

The healthcare system in Canada, particularly in Alberta and Calgary, is based on public insurance that covers most basic medical services. However, even citizens and permanent residents often wonder whether it is worth purchasing additional private insurance. In this article, we will look at when and for whom private insurance is advisable, what services it covers, how much it costs, and what alternatives are available.

What does public insurance cover in Calgary?

The public plan (AHCIP) covers:

  • Visits to family doctors and specialists
  • Hospitalization and surgery
  • Diagnostic tests (X-rays, blood tests)
  • Some basic services for children and seniors

Does not cover:

  • Prescription drugs (outside of the hospital)
  • Dental services (cleanings, fillings, orthodontics)
  • Eyeglasses, contact lenses, laser vision correction
  • Physical therapy, massage, alternative medicine
  • Emergency services (in most cases)
  • Private rooms, additional comfort in hospitals

What are the advantages of private insurance?

1. Coverage of additional services

Private insurance allows you to receive compensation for:

  • Prescription drugs
  • Dentistry (including orthodontics)
  • Eye care and eyeglasses
  • Physical therapy, massage, chiropractic care
  • Emergency services, private rooms, additional diagnostics

2. Protection against unexpected expenses

Without private insurance, even basic services can be expensive:

  • Ambulance service — from $250 CAD per call
  • Dental consultation — $100–$400 CAD
  • Eyeglasses — $150–$600 CAD
  • Monthly medication — from $50 CAD

3. Flexibility and customization

You can choose the services that are right for you and your family and select an individual or family plan.

4. Beneficial for newcomers

In the first three months after moving to Alberta, public insurance may not be valid. Private insurance protects you from large expenses during this period.

Who should especially consider private insurance

  • New immigrants — to cover the waiting period for government insurance
  • Families with children — to cover dental care, eyeglasses, and physical therapy
  • People with chronic illnesses — to cover the cost of medication
  • Retirees — for extended coverage of medication, hearing aids, and eyeglasses
  • Self-employed and freelancers — if your employer does not provide group insurance

How much does private insurance cost in Calgary

  • Individual plan: $50–$150 CAD/month (depending on age, health status, coverage)[5]
  • Family plan: $120–$300 CAD/month
  • Temporary insurance for newcomers: $125–$500 CAD for 3 months (depending on age and coverage)[9]

Prices depend on:

  • Age and health
  • Coverage (medication, dentistry, vision, etc.)
  • Insurance company (Blue Cross, Sun Life, Manulife, Green Shield Canada, Great-West Life, etc.)

How to get private insurance

  • Through your employer: Many companies offer group plans as a benefit to their employees
  • Individually: You can contact an insurance agent, broker, or insurance company directly
  • Online: Most companies have calculators to estimate costs and online applications

Alternatives to private insurance

  • Employer group plans — often more affordable than individual plans
  • Government programs for children, seniors, and low-income individuals — may cover some of the costs of medications, dental care, and eyeglasses
  • Pay-as-you-go plans — suitable for young and healthy individuals, but risky if you have serious medical conditions or injuries

Conclusion: Should you buy private insurance in Calgary?

Yes, private health insurance in Calgary is worth buying in the following cases:

  • You want to protect yourself from unexpected expenses for medication, dentistry, eyeglasses, physical therapy, etc.
  • You are a newcomer and do not yet have government insurance
  • You do not receive group insurance from your employer
  • You have children, chronic illnesses, or an increased risk of injury

For young, healthy individuals and those who have a comprehensive benefits package from their employer, private insurance may not be necessary, but it still provides added financial security.