Information for: People living with HIV

Who pays?

The types of rehabilitation services paid for by public (government) health plans in Canada vary from province to province. Private (employer or individual) health insurance plans often cover some rehabilitation services, but there is usually a yearly maximum.

You will need to talk to your doctor, rehabilitation provider, human resources department, insurance company, or local AIDS service organization to find out what is covered for you.

Some of the possibilities include:

Provincial health plan:

If you receive rehabilitation services while you are in hospital, they are covered by your provincial health plan. If you continue to receive rehabilitation from the hospital in an ambulatory or outpatient clinic after you leave hospital, it may also be covered.

Private insurers:

Some rehabilitation services may be covered by your employer’s group health insurance plan (if you are still working) or by private health insurance you purchased on your own. However, even if you have a plan through your employer, there are usually yearly maximums and sometimes only a portion of the cost is covered. Check your plan.

Sliding fee scales:

Some rehabilitation providers have a sliding fee scale for people without insurance. The fee is based on someone’s ability to pay.

AIDS service organizations

Local AIDS service organizations may provide some rehabilitation services for free.