Newfoundland and Labrador provincial health plan
What’s covered by the provincial government health plan?
The Newfoundland and Labrador Medical Care Plan (MCP) is the provincial planOpens in a new window for all residents that provides coverage for most of your basic healthcare services.
Are you covered?
To qualify, you must be a resident of Newfoundland and Labrador. A resident under the MCP is defined as someone “who is lawfully entitled to be or remain in Canada, makes his or her home in the province, and is ordinarily present in the province but does not include a tourist, transient or visitor to the province.” Certain exceptions applyOpens a new website in a new window - Opens in a new window.
What’s covered with MCP
| Benefit | Coverage details |
|---|---|
| Prescription drugs | Coverage is available for those 65 and older who receive Old Age Security benefits and the Guaranteed Income Supplement, with a maximum dispensing fee. There is also coverage available for families with low incomes, situations where the price of drugs exceeds a certain percentage of net income, and specific drugs for residents with Cystic Fibrosis and Growth Hormone Deficiency. The Newfoundland government has launched the NLPDP Biosimilars InitiativeOpens a new website in a new window - Opens in a new window which means the Newfoundland and Labrador Prescription Drug Program (NLPDP) will only cover the biosimilar versions of eligible drugs. |
| Ambulance | A significant portion of the cost for air and ground ambulance services are covered by the province but there are fees you may be required to pay. |
| Dental benefits | You may have access to coverage under one of the Dental Health PlansOpens a new website in a new window - Opens in a new window. |
| Vision care | No coverage available. |
| Hospital | There is coverage available for residents under the Newfoundland Hospital Insurance Plan. Certain services are covered when recommended by a medical practitioner. Learn more about hospital staysOpens a new website in a new window - Opens in a new window. |
| Paramedicals | No coverage available. |
| Hearing aids | No coverage available. |
| Nursing benefits and home care | Home care coverage varies by need. If you qualify, there is coverage for a variety of services in your home and communityOpens a new website in a new window - Opens in a new window. |
| Medical supplies | Coverage may be available through the Special Assistance Program for those who meet the eligibility criteriaOpens a new website in a new window - Opens in a new window. |
| Accidental death and dismemberment | No coverage available. |
| Out of country | Residents receiving hospital care outside of the country are eligible for insured services based on rates established by the Newfoundland Hospital Insurance PlanOpens a new website in a new window - Opens in a new window. |
How personal insurance can keep you covered
Personal health insurance can help supplement your coverage where you need it most.
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Cover unexpected costs
Though you’re covered, you still pay for some of your provincial health coverage. Personal health insurance can help make sure you aren't paying out of pocket for unexpected expenses.
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Plan ahead
Knowing the gaps in provincial plans and the workplace coverage you have can help make sure you have the coverage you and your family needs.
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Help save money
Taking care of your health now means avoiding serious illnesses or paying for expensive treatments later. Personal insurance can help you get the services and care you need without the big cost.
These highlights from the Newfoundland and Labrador Medical Care Plan and Newfoundland and Labrador Hospital Insurance Plan are for general reference only and are subject to change, corrections and updates. Other government programs may also be available. For more information on the latest coverage details, contact:
The Newfoundland and Labrador Medical Care Plan
45 Major’s Path
St. John’s, NF A1A 4Z9
Phone: 709-758-1600
Toll Free: 866-449–4459
Newfoundland & LabradorOpens a new website in a new window - Opens in a new window
Last updated: May 2023
