RAMQ covers essential medical care in Quebec. Private (or supplemental) health insurance covers what RAMQ does not reimburse.
What RAMQ covers
- Medical consultations: family doctor, emergency room, specialists (by referral)
- Hospitalization: standard semi-private room, nursing care
- Certain medications: through the public prescription drug insurance plan (RGAM), for people without group coverage
- Certain tests: laboratory analyses and imaging tests when medically required
What RAMQ generally does not cover
- Dental care: cleanings, fillings, crowns, orthodontics (except surgical exceptions)
- Brand-name medications: RGAM reimburses generic medications; brand names may cost more
- Physiotherapy, chiropractic, massage therapy: not reimbursed without a medical prescription in a covered context
- Psychologists: not reimbursed by RAMQ (unlike psychiatrists)
- Vision care: exams and glasses/lenses for adults aged 18 to 65
- Ambulance: partially reimbursed (residual fees at your expense)
What private health insurance can cover
Supplemental insurance fills RAMQ gaps depending on the plan chosen:
- Medications: reimbursement of a portion of prescription medications, including brand-name drugs
- Dental care: preventive (cleaning), restorative (fillings, crowns), sometimes orthodontics
- Paramedical: physiotherapy, massage therapy, chiropractic, naturopathy, psychology, occupational therapy
- Vision care: exams, frames, contact lenses or laser surgery (depending on the plan)
- Private hospital room: private room if you prefer privacy
Does private insurance replace RAMQ?
No. RAMQ remains your basic coverage for essential medical care. Private insurance supplements it. It does not replace it.
If you do not have an employer group plan, supplemental insurance can help you better manage your predictable health expenses.
To learn more
Supplemental Health and Dental Insurance →
Call our advisors to compare available options for your profile: (514) 500-7220.