Blue Cross in Canada

Blue Cross member plans operate on a not-for-profit basis in every region of Canada. Eligible residents in each province and territory can apply for Blue Cross coverage for their group benefits and individual health, dental and travel insurance coverage needs.

All member plans operate independently but are associated with the Canadian Association of Blue Cross Plans (CABCP). The association maintains and monitors standards of performance ensuring the highest quality of service. The Association is also linked with the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association in the United States and worldwide through the International Federation of Health Funds.

History

In 1939 Manitoba was the first province to establish a Blue Cross plan. Forward-thinking medical and business professionals recognized the importance of prepaid health care plans to provide financial security to Canadians and it wasn’t long before the other provinces came on board with their own Blue Cross organizations.

With the introduction of Medicare in the 1960s, the Blue Cross plans adapted their products to compliment the government program and help Canadians deal with rising prescription drug costs. And, as employee needs changed, the Blue Cross plans introduced employee assistance and attendance programs for their group clients.

Always there for you

Today, Blue Cross covers millions of Canadians with supplementary coverage. The independent regional organizations offer a complete line of supplementary health, dental, travel and life insurance, as well as disability income plans on an individual and group basis. Each Blue Cross member plan is also deeply involved in its community and committed to improving the health and wellness of the Canadians it serves.