What Is Flexcare Insurance?

Manulife Financial of Canada is the provider of Flexcare health insurance plans. Individuals can choose from a range of health care options that are tailored to each Canadian province.

Function

• The purpose of Flexcare insurance is to provide individuals a way to supplement the medical care provided through their province. Although some employers provide additional health coverage as part of their benefits package, others may need to purchase insurance to fill in the coverage gaps in the Canadian public health care system.

Types

• Several plans are available through Flexcare. Individuals can choose from core plans or stand alone options. Core plans provide coverage for specialist care, dental services and medications. Those seeking coverage for only hospital or catastrophic medical care can choose the stand alone option. Add-on options--such as vision coverage--are available with core plans. The Flexcare Select benefits cover services chosen by the individual; all include travel coverage.

Considerations

• Purchasing additional health insurance, such as Flexcare, may be necessary for Canadian citizens who want to avoid paying the costs of medical care not covered by the government. According to the Vancouver English Center, provincial health care does not cover dental care, prescriptions, ambulance services, eyeglasses or contact lenses. It is important to remember, however, that some Flexcare plans require applicants to submit to a medical examination. In addition, Flexcare options can vary depending on province.