Guaranteed Issue Health Care Plans

Health and dental insurance for those retiring or losing their employee group benefits.

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What is a guaranteed issue health care plan?

A guaranteed issue health and dental insurance plan is an ideal choice for individuals transitioning from an employee group benefits plan, especially those who have recently lost such benefits (within the last 60-90 days). This type of plan is particularly beneficial for ensuring continuous health coverage during such transitions.

The defining characteristic of a 'guaranteed issue' plan is its straightforward application process. Applicants are not required to complete a medical questionnaire. Instead, the insurance company provides coverage on a guaranteed basis, provided you apply within 60-90 days after your employee group benefits end. This feature makes it a hassle-free option for maintaining health insurance coverage.

Similar to other health insurance plans, the primary function of a guaranteed issue plan is to cover health and dental costs not included in your provincial government health care plan. This helps in reducing your out-of-pocket expenses for these essential services.

While guaranteed issue plans generally offer moderate value in terms of benefits per dollar compared to other plan types, their significant advantage lies in covering pre-existing conditions. This aspect makes them a valuable option for individuals with existing health issues who are seeking comprehensive coverage without the need for extensive medical underwriting.

This type of plan is an ideal fit for:

Health insurance plans cover a combination of routine expenses (i.e. planned predictable expenses), and unplanned expenses. Every plan will vary with regard to coverage amounts for each of these benefits.

  • Individuals and families who is currently covered by an employee group benefits plan, or has recently lost their benefits (within last 60-90 days).
  • Individuals and families who have recently lost their employee group benefits (within last 60-90 days).
  • Individuals and families who have medical history and 'pre-existing conditions' that they want to ensure are covered.
  • Individuals and families who want/need a 'bridging' solution to avoid gaps in coverage while they shop for a Medically Underwritten plan.
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What does health insurance cover?

Health insurance plans cover a combination of routine expenses (i.e. planned predictable expenses), and unplanned expenses. Every plan will vary with regard to coverage amounts for each of these benefits.

  • Prescription drugs
  • Dental visits
  • Paramedical services
  • Vision care
  • Ambulance (air / ground)
  • Hospital accomodation
  • Emergency travel medical
  • Medical equipment

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Cost

How much does health insurance cost?

There are a number of factors that can affect plan pricing, including:

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Age

Generally, insurance cost less for younger age groups, and more for older age groups

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Single, couple or family

Plan cost will vary depending on the number of people covered.

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Province of residence

Plan cost can vary from one province/territory to the next.

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Plan selection

Plans that include more benefits and higher coverage amounts come at a higher cost.

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Other types of health care plans

There are two other types of health insurance plans; Guaranteed Issue, and Guaranteed Acceptance. The appropriate plan for you depends on your circumstances. An advisor can assist in determining the appropriate plan for you.

Medically Underwritten

  • Medical questionnaire required
  • Apply anytime
  • Lowest relative cost
  • Highest benefits per dollar
  • Excludes pre-existing conditions
View Medically Underwritten

Guaranteed Acceptance

  • No medical questionnaire
  • Apply anytime
  • Highest relative cost
  • Lowest benefits per dollar
  • Covers pre-existing conditions
View Guaranteed Acceptance

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.

Frequently asked questions

Answers to key questions about Guaranteed Issue Health Care Plans

What is the benefit of a guaranteed issue health care plan compared to other options?

Guaranteed issue health care plans are designed to provide access to coverage without requiring medical questions as part of the application process. These plans can be an option for individuals who may not qualify for plans that involve medical underwriting. Coverage features, eligibility rules, and plan structure vary by insurer and policy.

How long does it take to get health insurance?

The time required to obtain health insurance depends on the type of plan and the insurer’s application process. Some plans may become effective shortly after an application and payment are received, while others require review and approval before coverage begins. Timelines can vary if additional information is requested during the application process.

Still have questions?

Please contact our office and we'll be happy to address any questions you may have.