The PEI Health is the provincial plan for all Prince Edward Island residents. It provides coverage for most of your basic healthcare services.
To qualify, you must be a resident of PEI for at least 3 months, but you can apply as soon as you arrive in the province. Certain exceptions apply
What’s covered with PEI Health
| Benefit | Coverage details |
|---|---|
| Prescription drugs |
PEI Health is the payer of last resort, which means you only receive coverage when you are not covered by other parties. Those over 65 are eligible for coverage with the Seniors’ Drug Program. You will be responsible for a copayment and the pharmacy professional fee, but the rest of the cost is covered by the program. You may also be eligible for coverage if you have a certain medical condition and meet certain criteria. PEI Health has launched the Biosimilars Initiative which means Pharmacare will only cover the biosimilar versions of eligible drugs. |
| Ambulance |
A flat fee is required for land ambulance service. Learn more about ambulance service billing information. |
| Dental benefits |
No coverage for those 18 and over for routine services. Some coverage is available for residents between 3 and 17 that don’t have private dental insurance. Long-term care residents may also be eligible for certain coverages. Learn more about dental coverage. |
| Vision care |
No coverage for exams, glasses or contact lenses. Children in Kindergarten are eligible for a free eye exam and free glasses if needed. Learn more about eye exam coverage. |
| Hospital |
With a valid health card, you are eligible for costs associated with medically necessary hospital services. Coverage is available for ward rooms and private and semi-private could also be covered if standard rooms aren’t available. Learn more about hospital stays. |
| Paramedicals |
No coverage available. |
| Hearing aids and medical supplies | Some coverage available for those up to age of 21 through Audiology Services. |
| Nursing benefits and home care | Coverage for health care and support services available through the Home Care Program. |
|
Medical supplies |
The Insulin Pump Program provides coverage for insulin pump supplies for those with type 1 diabetes that are under the age of 25.
You may be eligible for coverage of ostomy supplies through the Ostomy Supplies Program. |
|
Accidental death and dismemberment |
No coverage available. |
|
Out of country |
Some coverage may be available outside the country for emergency medical services. |
Personal health insurance can help supplement your coverage where you need it most.
Though you’re covered, you still pay for some of your provincial health coverage. Personal health insurance can help make sure you aren't paying out of pocket for unexpected expenses.
These highlights from the Prince Edward Island Insurance Plan are for general reference only and are subject to change, corrections and updates. Other government programs may also be available. For more information on the latest coverage details, contact:
Health PEI
16 Garfield Street
P.O. Box 2000
Charlottetown, PE C1A 7N8
Prince Edward Island
Last updated: December 2023