The Nova Scotia Medical Services Insurance (MSI) Plan is the provincial plan for all Nova Scotia residents. It provides coverage for most of your basic healthcare.
To qualify, you must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident that makes his or her home in Nova Scotia. You must also be in the province for 183 days each year and register with MSI. Certain exceptions apply.
What’s covered with MSI
| Benefit | Coverage details |
|---|---|
| Prescription drugs |
The Seniors’ Pharmacare Program covers those over 65 who live in Nova Scotia with a valid health card. You can’t have any other coverage from another plan and must pay an annual premium, as well as a co-payment to the program or at the pharmacy. There is also a Family Pharmacare Program that covers those under 65. Similar rules apply for eligibility as the program is available to Nova Scotia residents with a health card that do not have any other coverage. There are some exceptions. The N.S. government has launched the Biosimilars Initiative which means Pharmacare will only cover the biosimilar versions of eligible drugs. |
| Ambulance |
The province pays the cost of transportation between approved facilities for Nova Scotia residents with a health card. In other instances, you will be charged a flat fee. Learn more about ambulance service billing information. |
| Dental benefits | Basic coverage like yearly checkups, cleanings and fillings are available to those under the age of 14. |
| Vision care |
Residents under the age of 9 or over 65 are covered for 1 routine eye exam every 2 years. No coverage available for glasses or contact lenses. Learn more about eye exam coverage. |
| Hospital | You’re covered for standard ward rooms only. Learn more about hospital stays. |
| Paramedicals |
Chiropractic, podiatrist, naturopath, massage therapy or osteopath services are not covered. Coverage available for physiotherapy if provided at a hospital. Learn more about paramedical coverage. |
| Hearing aids |
No coverage available. |
| Nursing benefits and home care | Home care coverage varies by need and costs are based on your income. If you qualify, the Home Care program provides coverage for a variety of services in your home and community. |
|
Medical supplies |
Some coverage is available for arm and leg prostheses and mastectomy protheses for those that meet eligibility criteria. Learn more about medical supply coverage. |
|
Accidental death and dismemberment |
No coverage available. |
|
Out of country |
There is coverage for emergency in-patient services with a daily maximum plus a percentage of ancillary fees incurred. Doctor fees covered due to an accident or sudden illness during a temporary absence from the country based on Nova Scotia rates. No coverage for out-patient services. Learn more about out of country services. |
Personal health insurance can help supplement your coverage where you need it most.
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.
These highlights from the Nova Scotia Medical Services 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:
Department of Health and Wellness
P.O. Box 488
Halifax, NS B3J 2R8
Phone: 902-424-5818
Toll-free in Nova Scotia: 800-387-6665
TTY/TDD: 800-670-8888
Nova Scotia
Last updated: April 2022