What is no longer covered by OHIP?

What is no longer covered by OHIP?

OHIP, the government-funded health insurance program in Ontario, has always been considered one of the most comprehensive healthcare plans in Canada. It has covered a wide range of medical services, including doctor visits, hospital stays, surgeries, and prescription medications. However, in recent years, there have been significant changes to OHIP's coverage, resulting in certain services and treatments no longer being covered.

Perhaps one of the most notable changes to OHIP's coverage is the reduction in coverage for physiotherapy services. In the past, OHIP provided coverage for a certain number of physiotherapy sessions for individuals who required this treatment. However, in 2019, OHIP significantly reduced the covered amount and restricted it to specific patient groups, such as seniors and individuals with certain chronic conditions.

This change has had a significant impact on those who rely on physiotherapy to manage their conditions or recover from injuries. Individuals who no longer qualify for OHIP coverage may be forced to pay out of pocket for these essential services, which can be a financial burden for many.

Another significant change to OHIP's coverage is the delisting of certain procedures and treatments. In an effort to control healthcare costs, OHIP has removed coverage for several elective procedures that were previously covered. Procedures such as cosmetic surgeries, bariatric surgeries, and certain infertility treatments are no longer covered by OHIP.

This change has affected individuals who were relying on OHIP to cover the costs of these procedures. They are now required to seek private insurance coverage or pay for these treatments entirely on their own, which can be financially challenging for many.

Besides the reductions in coverage for specific services, OHIP has also made changes to prescription medication coverage. In 2019, OHIP introduced the OHIP+ program, which provided free prescription medications for individuals aged 24 and under. While this program was celebrated for its positive impact on youth healthcare, it came with a trade-off.

Oversight for many prescription medications previously covered by OHIP shifted to private insurance providers. As a result, certain medications that were once covered under OHIP may no longer be covered or require individuals to navigate the complexities of private insurance plans.

It is important to note that OHIP still provides coverage for a broad range of medical services deemed necessary for maintaining good health or treating illnesses. However, the reduction in coverage for physiotherapy, the delisting of certain procedures, and the shifting responsibility for prescription medication coverage are significant changes that have impacted individuals relying on OHIP for their healthcare needs.

In conclusion, the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) has undergone significant changes in recent years, resulting in reduced coverage for certain services and treatments. Physiotherapy coverage has been significantly reduced, specific procedures and treatments have been delisted, and oversight for prescription medications has shifted to private insurance providers. These changes have had a considerable impact on individuals who relied on OHIP for their healthcare needs and have created financial burdens for those who need these services and treatments. It is crucial for individuals to understand these changes and explore alternative options for obtaining the necessary care.

Frequently Asked Questions

As of January 1, 2020, OHIP no longer covers the following services:

OHIP no longer covers emergency medical services or treatments received outside of Canada.

OHIP no longer covers the cost of prescription medications for children and youth who are covered under the Ontario Drug Benefit (ODB) program.

Patients who choose to have diagnostic services done at private clinics or facilities are no longer covered by OHIP for these services.

OHIP no longer covers physiotherapy services for conditions that are not considered to be of high complexity or chronic in nature.

OHIP no longer covers routine eye exams for adults aged 20 to 64. However, certain eye care services may still be covered for specific conditions or age groups.