Government of Saskatchewan
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        Wednesday, May 16, 2012
Saskatchewan! Healthy people. A healthy province.

Health Coverage – Are Services Covered?

For information about coverage, call Saskatchewan Health's Medical Services Branch at 1-800-667-7523 (in Regina 787-3475) or review What Services are Covered.

Going outside Saskatchewan for Health Care

 Outside of Saskatchewan 

Prior approval is not required for the vast majority of hospital and physician services received by people travelling in other provinces or territories.

If you need medical services not available in Saskatchewan talk to your treating physician or specialist.

 Out of Country:  Elective Coverage

If your specialist refers you for services not available in Canada, coverage is only considered in exceptional circumstances and under certain conditions. You must have prior approval from the Ministry of Health or the Saskatchewan Cancer Agency.

 Out of Country:  Emergency Coverage

If you receive emergency medical or hospital care while outside Canada, you are responsible for paying the difference between the amount charged and the amount Saskatchewan Health reimburses. Because costs are often much higher outside Canada, extra medical insurance is strongly recommended.

Privacy - Protection of Health Information

Concerns about privacy or protection of health information can be directed to the HIPA (Health Information Protection Act) Privacy Officer in the health region where the concern occurred.

If the concern isn't successfully resolved, the Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner can handle inquiries and concerns about collection, use, disclosure or management of health or personal information.

Patients' Rights

Patients' rights are protected by law. See Related Links for detailed information on the following relevant legislation:

  • The Saskatchewan Human Rights Code says that you may not be denied public services on the basis of age, sex, religion, marital or family status, nationality, physical or mental disability, race, colour or sexual orientation.
  • The Health Information Protection Act safeguards the privacy of your health information and guides the ways in which health providers can share and use it while providing care.
  • The Freedom of Information Act defines the kind of records and written information that can be released by government agencies.
  • The Health Care Directives and Substitute Decision Makers Act helps ensure that the written wishes of you or your proxy are respected, if you are unable to make a decision about medical treatment.
  • The Canada Health Act helps ensure that all Canadians have access to hospital and physician services, regardless of their ability to pay for it.
Related Links
Patient Concerns - Resolving Issues, Answering Questions

Who to contact with questions or concerns about services, treatment, how decisions were made, or access to care.

Saskatchewan Human Rights Code

Protects and promotes individual dignity and equal rights.

Health Information Protection Act

Saskatchewan's legislation governing the privacy and protection of personal health information.

Freedom of Information Act
Health Care Directives and Substitute Decision Makers Act
Canada Health Act

An overview of the Act and its provisions.



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