Saskatchewan provincial health care plan

Eligibility and coverage details for Saskatchewan

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GHIP

Who is covered by the Saskatchewan provincial government health care plan?

The Saskatchewan Health Plan covers all Saskatchewan residents through a network of local, regional, and provincial health services. It includes basic healthcare services like doctor and hospital visits. Registration is required for coverage.

GHIP

Are you eligible?

To qualify for the Saskatchewan Health Plan, you must be a resident and live in the province for at least 6 months each year. Registration with eHealth Saskatchewan is required. Certain exceptions apply.

What's covered

Coverage details for the Saskatchewan provincial Health Care Plan

Benefit
Coverage details
Prescription Drugs

The Saskatchewan Special Support Program offers income-based financial assistance for prescription drug costs. Once the semi-annual deductible is reached, residents pay a co-payment for drugs listed on the provincial formulary. Seniors aged 65 and older are covered under the Seniors’ Drug Plan, while children aged 14 and younger are covered by the Children’s Drug Plan. In both cases, eligible residents pay $25 per prescription for covered drugs. Saskatchewan’s Biosimilars Initiative ensures that only biosimilar versions of eligible drugs are covered under provincial drug programs.

Ambulance

Ambulance services are not fully covered in Saskatchewan, but the province provides subsidies for ground and air ambulance costs depending on the resident's location. Seniors aged 65 and older may benefit from the Senior Citizens’ Ambulance Assistance Program, which caps the cost per trip. Other residents are generally required to pay a portion of the ambulance service cost. Learn more about available coverage and subsidies.

Dental benefits

There is no coverage for routine dental services under the Saskatchewan Health Plan. However, partial coverage is available for oral surgeries required to treat specific medical conditions, including orthodontic services for individuals with cleft palate. Tooth extractions are also covered if deemed medically necessary.

Vision care

Residents under 18 years of age, or those with a confirmed diagnosis of type 1 or type 2 diabetes, are covered for one annual eye exam. Ocular emergencies are also covered. Routine coverage does not include prescription glasses or contact lenses. Learn more about eye exam coverage.

Hospital

The Saskatchewan Health Plan covers hospital services, though details on specific accommodations are not readily available. Standard hospital services are likely covered, but residents should inquire directly with the Saskatchewan health system for more information.

Paramedicals

The Saskatchewan Health Plan covers a portion of chiropodist and podiatrist services. Physiotherapy and occupational therapy services are covered if provided in a hospital, special care home, community agency, or certain private clinics. All other paramedical services, such as chiropractic and naturopathy, are not covered under the provincial plan. Learn more about what paramedical services may be available.

Hearing aids

Saskatchewan’s provincial health plan does not offer coverage for hearing aids. However, audiology services may be available to eligible residents, particularly those with specific medical conditions or financial need.

Medical equipment & supplies

The Saskatchewan Aids for Independent Living (SAIL) program offers coverage for residents with physical disabilities and certain chronic illnesses. The Insulin Pump Program covers insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitoring systems for residents under 18 with type 1 diabetes, provided they meet specific eligibility requirements. Coverage is also available for CPAP machines for residents with moderate to severe sleep apnea who meet the eligibility criteria.

Paramedicals

The Saskatchewan Health Plan covers a portion of chiropodist and podiatrist services. Physiotherapy and occupational therapy services are covered if provided in a hospital, special care home, community agency, or certain private clinics. All other paramedical services, such as chiropractic and naturopathy, are not covered under the provincial plan. Learn more about what paramedical services may be available.

Nursing benefits and home care

The Saskatchewan Health Authority offers home care services that include case management, nursing, physical and occupational therapy, and personal support. Residents are responsible for a partial payment based on income and the services provided. Private home care services are not covered by the provincial health plan.

Accidental death and dismemberment

The Saskatchewan Health Plan does not offer any coverage for accidental death and dismemberment. Private insurance is necessary for residents who need this type of protection.

Out of country

Saskatchewan Health covers emergency in-patient and out-patient services outside of Canada, subject to a daily maximum. Coverage is limited to one visit per day, and residents are responsible for paying the difference between the full cost of services and the amount covered by Saskatchewan Health. Learn more about out-of-country services.

Disclaimer

The information provided on this page is intended for general informational purposes only and may be subject to change. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, provincial and territorial health coverage details can vary and are regularly updated. We recommend contacting your respective GHIP or consulting a legal, tax, or insurance advisor for advice tailored to your specific situation.

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Extended Health Care

How Personal Health & Dental Insurance Complements Your Provincial Plan

While your provincial or territorial health plan covers many essential medical services, there are important areas where personal health insurance can help extend your coverage, giving you broader protection and peace of mind.

Bridge the Gaps in Coverage

Provincial health plans often leave gaps, such as prescription drugs, dental visits, and vision care. Personal health insurance can bridge these gaps by covering expenses your government plan doesn’t, ensuring you’re not left with unexpected out-of-pocket costs.

Be Ready for Life’s Health Changes

Even with your government health coverage, there are still costs that can catch you off guard, like prescription drugs, dental care, and vision expenses. A personal health plan can step in to cover these out-of-pocket expenses, making sure you’re protected from financial surprises.

Secure Your Health & Financial Future

Investing in personal health insurance today can save you from paying high costs for treatments or services down the road. By taking a proactive approach, you can ensure you get the care you need now, avoiding bigger health issues—and bigger bills—later on.

Get in touch

Talk to an advisor who can understand your situation, answer your questions and help you build an insurance plan appropriate for you and your family.

How to contact your GHIP

For more information on the latest coverage details, please contact the Saskatchewan provincial health care plan directly at:

Medical Services Branch, Saskatchewan Health
2nd Floor, 3475 Albert Street
Regina, SK S4S 6X6
Phone: 306-787-3475
Toll-free: 1-800-667-7523
Email: [email protected]

Website: Medical Services Branch, Saskatchewan Health