Are alternative forms of health care (i.e. chiropractic, acupuncture, herbal medicines) covered under my medicare plan?
Although Canada’s current health care system is based on the practice of traditional western medicine, this does not mean that there is no room for alternative forms of health care. Some alternative health care is covered, at least partially, by the provincial and territorial health insurance plans. Under the federal health insurance legislation, the Canada Health Act, the provinces and territories are required to provide medically necessary hospital and physician services to all their eligible residents on a prepaid basis. In addition to the provision of medically necessary hospital and physician services, provincial and territorial governments may also offer “additional benefits” at their own discretion. Chiropractic, acupuncture and naturopathy services are examples of the additional benefits provided by the provinces and territories on their own terms and conditions.
