Does Orlando accept Canadian Health Insurance? (purchasing, cost, bill)

[Snowbirds]

Hi Folks,

I am planning to bring my widowed 76-year old mother from Toronto to Orlando for two months. To take out a plan would cost her $600.00 a month which is pretty steep given all other travel expenses. I heard a rumor that some Florida clinics will bill the Canadian government health insurance....

Is this true? This would really help mom out, if anyone has info. or any suggestions.

Thanks very much aye!

[Keeper]

Since no one answered, I would call her insurance company and ask them. FL gets a lot of tourist and winter residents from Canada so I would imagine someplace takes the insurance.

[hgebel]

I think the first thing to find out is if the Ontario government health insurance will pay Orlando hospitals. They will only pay for emergency services up to the amount that they would have paid for an Ontario hospital, your mother will be responsible for the difference. They recommend purchasing supplemental insurance to cover the difference, which will probably be cheaper than a full insurance policy. Here is a page on their web site with specific information and links:

Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care - Public Information - Ontario Health Insurance Plan - Travelling Outside Canada

Your mother can also call the Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care at 800-664-8988 for more information (it is only a toll free call in Ontario).

-Harry