By Charles Lefebvre

Alberta changes coverage for health services outside of Canada

Feb 20, 2020 | 1:08 PM

EDMONTON, AB — Alberta will no longer provide coverage for elective, non-urgent health services and routine lab tests in another country.

The change, which takes effect April 1, was announced in a news release Thursday morning.

The province says there will be no change to coverage for emergency health services overseas, noting Albertans will continue to be partially reimbursed for insured emergency services needed when travelling outside of Canada.

The province says the decision brings the province in line with other Canadian provinces, Only Quebec and Newfoundland and Labrador provide out-of-country coverage for elective services.

The change is expected to save $1 million annually, which will “be reinvested into strengthening the province’s health system.”

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The release adds Albertans are strongly encouraged to get travel medical insurance when travelling overseas to help cover costs.