Manitoba’s provincial medical coverage is known as Manitoba Health. It is open to all permanent residents of Manitoba as long as they have lived there for at least six months. Ironically, the Pharmacare subsidy program has the same name as the drug coverage tier of B.C.’s provincial health plan.
What Does Manitoba Cover?
- Doctor services
- anesthetic and surgery
- X-ray and lab tests that are required by a doctor
- One eye exam every two years for those under 19 and over 65 and all eye exams required by a physician.
- 12 chiropractor visits per year, including spinal column, pelvis and extremities adjustments.
- Dental procedures when hospitalization is required
In Hospital
- Standard accommodation and meals
- Nursing services
- Lab, x-ray, and diagnostic processes
- Medication given in the hospital
- Operating room, care room and anaesthetic facilities, surgical supplies.
- Occupational, physiotherapy and speech services.
- Diet counseling
Homecare
- Basic nursing care
- Assistance and supervision required for tasks of daily living
- Physiotherapy and occupational therapy
- Medical and surgical supplies, as well as prescription drugs and related supplies that are approved by the provincial health plan.
- Meals, including specialty diets
- Laundry and linen services
Pharmacare
Pharmacare is a prescription drug subsidy for those who can’t afford high prescription drug costs. The subsidy is based on the total income of the family and the amount they pay for their prescriptions. The deductible is based on the family’s income and there are several criteria that must be met to qualify:
- Qualify for the Manitoba health plan
- Not be covered by any other provincial program
- Not have supplemental private drug coverage
- Costs are above the Pharmacare deductible
If you’re thinking about purchasing supplemental health or drug coverage, particularly for ambulance transportation because this is not covered, please call us at 1-866-899-4849. For a more detailed look at Manitoba’s provincial health plan, visit their website.
