Residents of Nova Scotia are covered by the Medical Services Insurance Program (MSI), which makes them eligible for medically required health services, such as medical, dental, hospital, and optometrist services. The optometrist services are limited, however. If you are a visitor to Nova Scotia from outside the country, you will only receive coverage for rudimentary emergency services, so you should definitely consider travel insurance if you are planning a vacation there.
What is Covered?
What’s Not Covered?
There are pharmacare services available for eligible residents who can’t afford prescription drugs or medical supplies. This financial assistance comes in five different programs, as follows.
Family Pharmacare: The deductible and co-payment is determined by family size and income. Families with the greatest financial need pay the least. All permanent residents of Nova Scotia who have a valid health card all eligible for this program.
Senior’s Pharmacare: Nova Scotia permanent residents with a valid health card who are 65 and older and have no other private health coverage are eligible.
Drug Assistance for Cancer Patients: Applicants must have a valid health card and earn below a certain amount of gross family income in order to receive financial aid for drugs related to their cancer treatment.
Community Services Pharmacare: The Department of Community Services provides Pharmacare to those on income assistance such as people with disabilities and children in the care of child welfare.
Nova Scotia Diabetes Assistance Program: Helps those with diabetes pay for most medications and supplies.
