Insurance

The Real-Life Benefits of Having Health Insurance

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August 9, 2025

The Real-Life Benefits of Having Health Insurance go beyond a simple safety net; they’re a game-changer for Canadians. While Canada’s Medicare system provides universal care, it doesn’t cover everything, leaving gaps that lead to rising out-of-pocket costs. From prescriptions to dental care, supplemental health insurance steps in where public plans fall short. Summit Insurance Kelowna makes it easy to find a plan that fits your needs, ensuring you’re protected in real, everyday ways.

Canada’s Public Healthcare: Gaps You May Not Notice

The Canadian public system covers only hospitalizations and doctor visits, and approximately 70 percent of the total healthcare spending, but does not cover outpatient prescriptions, dental care, vision care, or physiotherapy.

  • In a 2025 survey, 56 percent of Canadians had avoided or postponed care because of cost, and the worst-affected areas are dental care (60 percent), prescription drugs (55 percent), and vision care ( 54 percent).
  • Out-of-pocket spending was more than 1,000 in 29 percent of Canadians last year.

Such gaps have actual implications in real choices, such as picking between dental care and rent.

Real Savings and Financial Protection

Health insurance has the advantage of shielding you against large, unforeseen expenses. Canadians with extended plans save around $1,000 yearly on prescriptions and paramedical services. With 88% of policyholders reporting savings, the savings from supplemental health insurance mean fewer financial trade-offs when health issues pop up.

Faster Access and Reduced Wait Times

Long waits for specialists or elective surgeries are a Canadian norm. Obtaining virtual care, access to diagnostics, and private clinics reduces the number of delays when using private insurance. This can become a lifeline when one needs urgent care, such as physiotherapy or the need of mental support. Why Canadians should have health insurance? It’s about getting care when you need it, not when the system allows it.

Coverage for Everyday Real-Life Services

Private plans cover what Canadians rely on daily:

  • Prescriptions, dental checkups, glasses, and therapies like massage or chiropractic
  • Preventive care, like cleanings or wellness credits

Even with programs like Pharmacare, gaps persist. Health insurance keeps you proactive about your health, tackling the real benefits of health coverage in Canada head-on.

Peace of Mind & Everyday Security

Coverage brings confidence, whether you’re traveling, injured, or managing routine care. Private plans often include travel add-ons, crucial since provincial coverage stops at the border. Mental health support, disability benefits, and direct billing ease stress in tough moments. The result? Less worry, more control over your health.

Tailored Solutions for Key Groups

Health insurance fits specific needs:

  • Newcomers:
    Covers the 3-month provincial wait.
  • Self-Employed:
    Replaces missing group benefits.
  • Retirees:
    Smooths the shift from workplace plans.
  • Families:
    Offers higher limits and discounts.

These options show how health insurance helps everyday Canadians at every life stage.

Why Summit Insurance Is the Trusted Choice

Summit Insurance shines with:

  • Province-aware tools to match your public coverage.
  • Flexible add-ons like dental-only or travel health insurance.
  • Clear pricing and fast claims.

Why choose us? We tailor plans to your life, earning trust across Canada.

Smart Guide: How to Choose the Right Plan

  1. Assess your provincial coverage with Summit’s coverage checker.
  2. List must-haves: meds, dental, or therapies.
  3. Weigh premiums against benefits and deductibles.
  4. Add extras like travel or paramedical coverage.

Check out our comprehensive Health and Wellness Insurance plan for a perfect match.

Final Thoughts

The Real-Life Benefits of Having Health Insurance are undeniable: savings, faster care, broader coverage, and peace of mind. Public plans lay the groundwork, but private insurance completes the picture. Whether you’re a family, retiree, or newcomer, Summit Insurance has you covered. Check your gaps with their coverage checker or get a free quote today - secure your health now!

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