Why would I need health insurance if I already have provincial coverage?

Provincial health plans cover many essential medical services, but they don’t typically include things like prescription drugs, dental care, vision care, or many paramedical services. A GMS health plan helps fill those gaps so you’re not paying out of pocket for the care you rely on.

I have Canadian Dental Coverage now. Do I still need GMS coverage?

The Canadian Dental Care Plan covers some basic dental services, but it doesn't cover things like major restorative work, orthodontics, or dental implants. My Health dental coverage can help fill those gaps so you're not paying out of pocket for major dental work.

Do I need a provincial health number to get GMS health insurance?

Yes. GMS health insurance is designed to supplement your provincial coverage, so you'll need to be enrolled in your province's health plan to apply.

Can I apply for coverage from outside of Canada?

GMS health plans are available to Canadian residents. If you're currently outside Canada, eligibility will depend on your residency status and the plan you're applying for. Contact us and we’ll help you determine your options.

GMS Private Health Insurance for Individuals and Families

What is private health insurance? Do I really need it?

Private health insurance (sometimes called individual or personal health insurance) covers Canadians for the costs of medical services that aren’t included in provincial health plans including routine and major dental care.

Your provincial health card looks after the basics (trips to the doctor or emergency room visits, for example), but you’re responsible for everything else.

At GMS, you have two options to choose from depending on your needs. My Health offers an all-in-one solution, including health, dental, and drug coverage. It’s ideal if you’re looking for protection for yourself and your family, or as a replacement if you’re leaving your group benefits and want to keep receiving health coverage.

My Health

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My Health coverage should be built around your life, not the other way around.

My Health is simple to understand, easy to buy, and designed to fill the gaps between provincial coverage and real life.

The right plan looks different for everyone. My Health lets you choose the benefits that matter most and adjust your coverage as your needs change.

My Health is flexible coverage you build yourself:

Customizable tiers for health, dental, and prescription drug coverage
Mental health support and virtual care included
Emergency travel coverage built in
Manage your plan anytime through the My GMS portal
Clear terms, no hidden costs

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Replacement Health

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Leaving a group benefits plan shouldn't mean losing the coverage you count on.

Replacement Health is individual health insurance for retirees, people leaving employer-paid coverage to become self-employed, and anyone stepping away from workplace benefits.

Guaranteed acceptance. No medical questions. Coverage can start within 90 days of your group plan ending.

Replacement Health is guaranteed coverage when leaving group benefits:

Prescription drugs, dental, and vision care covered
We pay your provider directly
Three plans to choose from: EssentialPlan, ChoicePlan, and PremierPlan
Annual travel coverage included in ChoicePlan and PremierPlan
GMS Care Network included with every plan

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The GMS Care Network – included in all GMS plans.

GMS Care Network is our assistance program available to all My Health, Replacement Health, and Group Advantage customers at no extra cost. GMS Care Network gives you 24/7 access to virtual care services, including telemedicine, mental health support, online pharmacy, and personalized nutrition, coaching and more, just a few clicks away.

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Commonly Asked Questions

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Why would I need health insurance if I already have provincial coverage?: Provincial health plans cover many essential medical services, but they don’t typically include things like prescription drugs, dental care, vision care, or many paramedical services. A GMS health plan helps fill those gaps so you’re not paying out of pocket for the care you rely on.
I have Canadian Dental Coverage now. Do I still need GMS coverage?: The Canadian Dental Care Plan covers some basic dental services, but it doesn't cover things like major restorative work, orthodontics, or dental implants. My Health dental coverage can help fill those gaps so you're not paying out of pocket for major dental work.
Do I need a provincial health number to get GMS health insurance?: Yes. GMS health insurance is designed to supplement your provincial coverage, so you'll need to be enrolled in your province's health plan to apply.
Can I apply for coverage from outside of Canada?: GMS health plans are available to Canadian residents. If you're currently outside Canada, eligibility will depend on your residency status and the plan you're applying for. Contact us and we’ll help you determine your options.

Why Choose GMS

We’re a Non Profit

As a not-for-profit insurer, we put your health first — not shareholder returns. Every dollar goes back into delivering better coverage and service for our members.

We’re Local

GMS has been helping Canadians with health coverage for over 75 years. We’re a Canadian company, and when you call, you talk to real people who know your name.

People Powered

Real people. Real support. Whether you call, click, or come to us, there's always a knowledgeable GMSer ready to help you get the most from your plan.