Newfoundland & Labrador provincial health care plan (MCP)

Eligibility and coverage details for Newfoundland & Labrador

A map of Canada.
GHIP

Who is covered by the Newfoundland & Labrador provincial government health care plan?

The Newfoundland and Labrador Medical Care Plan (MCP) covers all residents of the province. It provides basic healthcare services such as doctor visits and hospital stays. Residents must apply to receive coverage.

GHIP

Are you eligible?

To qualify for the Newfoundland and Labrador Medical Care Plan (MCP), you must be a resident who is lawfully entitled to remain in Canada, makes their home in the province, and is ordinarily present. Tourists and visitors are not eligible. Certain exceptions apply.

What's covered

Coverage details for the Newfoundland & Labrador provincial Health Care Plan (MCP)

Benefit
Coverage details
Prescription Drugs

Prescription drug coverage is available for residents aged 65 and older who receive Old Age Security and the Guaranteed Income Supplement, with a capped dispensing fee. Coverage is also provided to low-income families and those whose drug costs exceed a certain percentage of their net income. Residents with conditions such as cystic fibrosis or growth hormone deficiency are eligible for specific drug coverage. The Newfoundland and Labrador Prescription Drug Program (NLPDP) covers only biosimilar versions of eligible drugs under the Biosimilars Initiative.

Ambulance

A significant portion of air and ground ambulance services in Newfoundland and Labrador is covered by the provincial government, but residents may still be required to pay fees. Coverage varies based on the location and the type of ambulance service needed. For more details, residents are encouraged to review the specific billing information for ambulance services in the province.

Dental benefits

Residents may be eligible for coverage through one of the provincial Dental Health Plans, depending on their circumstances. Specific programs provide coverage for different groups, such as children, seniors, or low-income families.

Vision care

There is no coverage available for routine eye exams, prescription glasses, or contact lenses under Newfoundland and Labrador’s provincial health plan.

Hospital

The Newfoundland Hospital Insurance Plan covers standard hospital accommodations and medically necessary services when recommended by a medical practitioner. Additional fees apply for private or semi-private rooms unless no standard rooms are available.

Paramedicals

No coverage is available for paramedical services under the Newfoundland and Labrador health plan. Residents must seek private insurance or other supplementary options for these services.

Hearing aids

There is no provincial coverage available for hearing aids under the Newfoundland and Labrador health plan. Residents will need to seek private insurance or other programs for assistance with hearing devices.

Medical equipment & supplies

The Special Assistance Program in Newfoundland and Labrador provides coverage for medical supplies and devices for residents who meet the program’s eligibility criteria. This may include necessary equipment to support daily living and health management for those with chronic or severe conditions.

Paramedicals

No coverage is available for paramedical services under the Newfoundland and Labrador health plan. Residents must seek private insurance or other supplementary options for these services.

Nursing benefits and home care

In Newfoundland and Labrador, home care services are provided based on your assessed needs. The provincial government covers a range of services, including home nursing, personal care, and therapeutic support, allowing residents to receive care in their homes or communities.

Accidental death and dismemberment

There is no coverage available under the Newfoundland and Labrador health plan for accidental death and dismemberment. Private insurance options should be considered for this type of coverage.

Out of country

The Newfoundland Hospital Insurance Plan covers insured emergency hospital services received outside of the country, based on provincial rates. Residents must pay any costs that exceed these rates, and private healthcare services are not covered.

Disclaimer

The information provided on this page is intended for general informational purposes only and may be subject to change. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, provincial and territorial health coverage details can vary and are regularly updated. We recommend contacting your respective GHIP or consulting a legal, tax, or insurance advisor for advice tailored to your specific situation.

Get help with your health insurance planning.

Speak with a professional advisor who can help.

Extended Health Care

How Personal Health & Dental Insurance Complements Your Provincial Plan

While your provincial or territorial health plan covers many essential medical services, there are important areas where personal health insurance can help extend your coverage, giving you broader protection and peace of mind.

Bridge the Gaps in Coverage

Provincial health plans often leave gaps, such as prescription drugs, dental visits, and vision care. Personal health insurance can bridge these gaps by covering expenses your government plan doesn’t, ensuring you’re not left with unexpected out-of-pocket costs.

Be Ready for Life’s Health Changes

Even with your government health coverage, there are still costs that can catch you off guard, like prescription drugs, dental care, and vision expenses. A personal health plan can step in to cover these out-of-pocket expenses, making sure you’re protected from financial surprises.

Secure Your Health & Financial Future

Investing in personal health insurance today can save you from paying high costs for treatments or services down the road. By taking a proactive approach, you can ensure you get the care you need now, avoiding bigger health issues—and bigger bills—later on.

Get in touch

Talk to an advisor who can understand your situation, answer your questions and help you build an insurance plan appropriate for you and your family.

How to contact your GHIP

For more information on the latest coverage details, please contact the Newfoundland & Labrador provincial health care plan directly at:

The Newfoundland and Labrador Medical Care Plan
45 Major’s Path
St. John’s, NL A1A 4Z9
Phone: 709-758-1600
Toll-free: 1-866-449-4459
Email: mcp@gov.nl.ca

Website: The Newfoundland and Labrador Medical Care Plan